Classic Salmon Patties

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Fast salmon cakes made with canned fish, onions, and spices. Crispy shell, soft center. Done in 25 minutes, makes six.
Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sun, 23 Mar 2025 20:45:42 GMT
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Turn basic canned salmon into crunchy, brown patties with this classic dish. These light but filling cakes mix flaky fish with fresh flavors and spices, making a cheap meal that tastes totally fancy.

When I was young, my grandma always made salmon patties. She told me that taking out the tiny bones actually lowers the calcium, so we always kept them in for better nutrition.

Smart Ingredient Picks

  • Canned salmon: Go for wild-caught to get the tastiest flavor and best nutrients
  • Fresh aromatics: Tiny chopped onions give the base flavor you need
  • Binding agents: Fresh eggs and mayo help everything stick just right
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko makes them fluffier than regular crumbs
  • Seasonings: Fresh lemon cuts through the rich salmon taste
  • Frying oil: Pick a plain oil that won't burn easily

Making Flawless Patties

Salmon Preparation:
Take off skin but keep the bones for extra nutrients and feel
Mixture Creation:
Mix salmon with flavorings and binders without overdoing it
Patty Formation:
Form into even cakes without pressing too much
Initial Chill:
Let patties rest in the fridge so they hold together better
Careful Frying:
Wait until oil looks wavy before adding patties
Golden Finish:
Fry until deep brown, flipping just once
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I loved helping shape these patties as a kid while grandma told me stories about making them when money was tight.

Tasty Pairings

Serve with homemade tartar sauce and fresh lemon slices for the perfect combo.

Creative Twists

Throw in some fresh herbs, capers, or chopped celery for different flavors. Try rolling in panko for extra crunch.

Keeping It Fresh

Keep raw patties in the fridge up to a day. After cooking, they're best eaten within two days.

These patties are comfort food at its best - basic ingredients turned into something amazing through simple care and know-how.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Could I swap canned salmon for fresh?
Sure, use about two cups of cooked, flaked fresh salmon.
→ What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Put them in an airtight box and keep in the fridge for three days tops.
→ Can these patties be frozen?
Absolutely, store raw or cooked in the freezer for as long as three months.
→ What pairs well with salmon cakes?
Try some salad, roasted veggies, rice, or a dollop of tartar sauce.
→ Is baking an option instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes on each side.

Salmon Patties Classic

Golden, crunchy salmon cakes made easily using canned salmon. A family-friendly, budget meal that hits the spot.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
10 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves (6 patties)

Dietary Options: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
02 1 can (14.75 oz) of salmon, drained and broken into pieces
03 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
04 1/4 cup minced onion

→ Binding & Seasonings

05 2 tablespoons of mayo
06 1 beaten large egg
07 1 teaspoon (optional) of Dijon mustard
08 1/4 teaspoon of pepper
09 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic powder and salt
10 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

→ For Cooking & Serving

11 2 tablespoons of oil, any kind for cooking
12 Lemon wedges to serve (optional)

Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, stir together the salmon, onion, bell pepper, crackers, egg, mayo, lemon juice, mustard, and all the seasonings.

Step 02

Roll the mixture into 6 patties, each roughly 1/2 inch thick.

Step 03

Place a skillet over medium heat. Add oil and fry patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping when golden and crispy.

Step 04

Let them rest on paper towels to soak up extra oil. Enjoy warm, pairing with lemon slices if you'd like.

Tips

  1. You can swap breadcrumbs for saltines if needed.
  2. Prepare and store the mixture ahead in the fridge.
  3. Optional extras: fresh herbs or spicy sauce for a kick.

Required Tools

  • Large bowl for mixing
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • A spatula for flipping
  • A fork or masher for mixing evenly

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Wheat