Crispy Salmon Patties (Salmon Cakes)

🕒 Time

• Prep: 15–20 minutes

• Chill: 20–30 minutes (recommended)

• Cook: 8–10 minutes

• Total: ~45 minutes

🍽 Servings

Makes 8–10 patties

🛒 Ingredients

Main

• 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)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/3 cup finely diced onion

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Frying

• 3–4 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or light olive oil)

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Salmon

• Drain canned salmon thoroughly.

• Flake with a fork in a large bowl.

• If using fresh salmon, make sure it’s fully cooked, cooled, and flaked.

2️⃣ Mix the Patties

Add to the bowl:

• Eggs

• Breadcrumbs

• Onion

• Parsley

• Mustard

• Lemon juice

• Garlic powder

• Paprika

• 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

• Form into 8–10 equal patties (about 1/2–3/4 inch thick).

• 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

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

• Once hot (but not smoking), add patties without overcrowding.

• Cook 3–4 minutes per side until:

  • Deep golden brown

  • Crispy crust forms

  • Heated through

Adjust heat if browning too fast.

5️⃣ Drain

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

🥣 Optional Add-Ins (Flavor Boosters)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (extra moisture)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

• 1 tablespoon capers (chopped)

• 1 tablespoon finely diced bell pepper

🍋 Serving Suggestions

• With tartar sauce or garlic aioli

• On a toasted bun as a salmon burger

• Over salad greens

• With mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables

• Squeeze fresh lemon over top

🔥 Baking Option (Healthier)

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Place patties on a lined baking sheet.

• Lightly spray tops with oil.

• Bake 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

❄ Storage

• Refrigerate: up to 3 days

• Freeze (uncooked or cooked): up to 2 months

• Reheat in skillet or air fryer for best crispiness