Crispy Salmon Patties (Salmon Cakes)
🕒 Time
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Prep: 15–20 minutes
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Chill: 20–30 minutes (recommended)
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Cook: 8–10 minutes
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Total: ~45 minutes
🍽 Servings
Makes 8–10 patties
🛒 Ingredients
Main
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2 (14–15 oz) cans salmon, drained (remove large bones/skin if desired)
OR 1 lb cooked fresh salmon, flaked -
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
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2 large eggs
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1/3 cup finely diced onion
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying
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3–4 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or light olive oil)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Salmon
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Drain canned salmon thoroughly.
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Flake with a fork in a large bowl.
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If using fresh salmon, make sure it’s fully cooked, cooled, and flaked.
2️⃣ Mix the Patties
Add to the bowl:
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Eggs
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Breadcrumbs
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Onion
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Parsley
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Mustard
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Lemon juice
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Garlic powder
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Paprika
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Salt & pepper
Mix gently until just combined.
The mixture should hold together when pressed.
👉 If too wet: Add 1–2 tablespoons more breadcrumbs.
👉 If too dry: Add 1 tablespoon mayo or a splash of lemon juice.
3️⃣ Shape
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Form into 8–10 equal patties (about 1/2–3/4 inch thick).
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Place on a plate and refrigerate 20–30 minutes to help them firm up.
(Chilling helps prevent them from falling apart while frying.)
4️⃣ Cook
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Once hot (but not smoking), add patties without overcrowding.
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Cook 3–4 minutes per side until:
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Deep golden brown
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Crispy crust forms
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Heated through
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Adjust heat if browning too fast.
5️⃣ Drain
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
🥣 Optional Add-Ins (Flavor Boosters)
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise (extra moisture)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
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1 tablespoon capers (chopped)
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1 tablespoon finely diced bell pepper
🍋 Serving Suggestions
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With tartar sauce or garlic aioli
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On a toasted bun as a salmon burger
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Over salad greens
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With mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
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Squeeze fresh lemon over top
🔥 Baking Option (Healthier)
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place patties on a lined baking sheet.
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Lightly spray tops with oil.
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Bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
❄ Storage
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Refrigerate: up to 3 days
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Freeze (uncooked or cooked): up to 2 months
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Reheat in skillet or air fryer for best crispiness
