Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are a classic comfort dish that brings together flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, and a mix of simple seasonings for a crispy, golden treat. These patties are soft on the inside with just enough crunch on the outside, making them a satisfying and easy meal. The flavors are straightforward but so good—perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.
I love making these patties when I want something tasty but fuss-free. What’s great is you can use canned salmon, which makes it convenient and budget-friendly. I usually add a little chopped onion and a splash of lemon juice to brighten things up. The secret to getting the patties to hold together is using enough breadcrumbs and a beaten egg—this makes flipping them super easy without falling apart.
My favorite way to enjoy salmon patties is with a dollop of tartar sauce and a simple side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad. Sometimes, I eat them in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato, and that’s a real winner too. These patties always bring back memories of family dinners and make me feel like I’m sharing a little bit of home with whoever I serve them to.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Canned salmon makes this recipe quick and easy. If you prefer fresh, cook and flake it well. Pink or red salmon both work fine. If you have skin and bones, just mash them well—they add calcium and soften when cooked.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs help bind the patties and add crunch. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. You can use panko for an extra crispy crust.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These add freshness and mild crunch. If you don’t have bell pepper, a small celery stalk or a few chopped pickles can add a nice twist. Onions can be swapped for shallots or scallions for milder flavor.
Eggs and Mayonnaise: They help hold the patties together and keep them moist. For egg-free, try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water). Mayonnaise can be replaced with Greek yogurt or a bit of plain mustard for tang.
How Do You Get Salmon Patties to Hold Together and Brown Perfectly?
The key is balancing moisture and binders, then cooking at the right temperature:
- Drain salmon well to avoid too much liquid.
- Mix ingredients gently but thoroughly until combined.
- Use enough breadcrumbs and egg to bind the mixture without making it dry.
- Form patties that aren’t too thin – about 1 inch thick works well.
- Coat each patty lightly with extra breadcrumbs before frying to get a crunchy crust.
- Heat oil or butter over medium heat so patties cook through without burning.
- Cook each side 4-5 minutes, until golden brown, flipping carefully to keep shape.
Taking your time during cooking creates a crispy outside and tender inside. If the oil is too hot, patties brown too fast and may fall apart; too low, and they get soggy. Medium heat is your friend here!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all your ingredients without spills.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your proportions just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions and peppers easily and safely.
- Nonstick or cast-iron skillet – helps you get a crispy, golden crust on the patties.
- Spatula – ideal for flipping patties gently without breaking them.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil after frying to keep patties crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped fresh dill or parsley for a herbaceous kick that brightens the flavors.
- Mix in a little grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese for extra richness and a melty surprise inside.
- Swap salmon for canned tuna or crab meat to change up the seafood taste while keeping the same texture.
- Stir in a small amount of Old Bay seasoning or smoked paprika for a subtle spicy twist.
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Patties:
- 2 cans (14.75 oz each) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter, for frying
For Garnish & Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook the salmon patties, making it perfect for a quick meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salmon Patty Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), beaten eggs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well until the mixture sticks together when pressed.
2. Shape and Coat the Patties:
Form the mixture into patties about 3 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Then lightly coat each patty with extra breadcrumbs to help get a crispy outside when cooked.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the patties to the skillet and cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
4. Drain and Serve:
Remove the patties from the skillet and let them drain briefly on paper towels. Serve the patties warm, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Enjoy your Old Fashioned Salmon Patties with tartar sauce, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a classic and comforting meal!
Can I Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned?
Yes! Make sure to cook and flake fresh salmon before mixing it in. Use about 1 pound of cooked salmon to replace the canned salmon. Just be sure to let it cool and drain any excess moisture for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will help the patties bind and stay crispy without gluten.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Form the patties, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps flavors meld and can make cooking easier when you’re ready.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
Reheat salmon patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep them crispy. Alternatively, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain their texture.
