I make this dish often on busy weeknights. It cooks fast and fills plates. I learned to keep a can or some cooked salmon in the fridge. Salmon Patties became a go-to when I need a quick, healthy meal.
I use small changes each time. I may add bell pepper or skip it. I like to fry them until they are brown and a little crisp. Leftovers heat well. They work for lunch, a light dinner, or to pack in a box for work.
This recipe shows how to turn cooked salmon into simple fried patties. The patties have a mild fish taste with a soft inside. The outside gets a light brown crust from frying. People make this dish for quick weeknight meals, simple lunches, or for a low-effort dinner. It fits many diets and pairs well with salads, bread, or steamed veggies. For other quick fish ideas, see the bang-bang salmon made in 15 minutes for a spicier option.
Why make this recipe
This meal cooks fast and uses few tools. You can make it in one bowl. It uses simple pantry items. The flavor is mild and family friendly. You can change spices and mix-ins to match what you have. It works for a solo meal or for a small crowd. The patties also stretch well when you add breadcrumbs or egg, so they feed more people. This makes them a smart, low-waste choice for weeknights.
How to make this recipe
You mix cooked fish with crumbs, egg, mayo, and seasonings. Then shape the mix into patties. Heat oil in a pan and fry until each side is golden. The crumbs hold the patties together. The egg and mayo add moisture. Frying adds color and texture. Expect about ten minutes of hands-on time. The steps link up simply: combine, shape, and cook. The result is a compact, flavored patty ready to eat.
Ingredients
1 pound salmon, cooked and flaked, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 egg, beaten, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and pepper to taste, Oil for frying.
The cooked salmon gives the main flavor and protein. Breadcrumbs help bind and give a light crust. Onion and bell pepper add small bites and fresh taste. Mayonnaise and egg add moisture and hold the mix. Lemon brightens the flavor. Garlic powder gives a gentle punch without big pieces. Use oil that can handle medium heat. For a different crust idea, try a coconut crusted salmon recipe for inspiration.
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, mayonnaise, egg, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Serve with your choice of sauce or over a salad.
Mix evenly so each patty holds together. If the mix feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If it is too dry, add a splash of mayo or a beaten egg. Let the pan reach medium heat before adding patties so they brown, not steam. Flip once to keep them intact. Cooking to golden brown makes them firm and tasty. Use a spatula that slides under the patty cleanly.
How to serve this recipe
Serve the patties hot for best texture. They pair well with a simple green salad. Put them on a bun with lettuce and lemon mayo for a sandwich. Add steamed rice or boiled potatoes for a fuller meal. A small yogurt or tartar sauce works well too. For a light meal, serve two patties with veggies. For a heartier plate, add a side of grains and steamed greens. The patties also cool well for a packed lunch.
How to store this recipe
Cool the patties before you store them. Put them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay good for 3–4 days. To freeze, place patties on a tray, freeze until firm, then move to a freezer bag. Frozen patties keep 2–3 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep the crust crisp. If microwaving, cover and use short bursts so they heat through without getting soggy. Label the container with the date.
Tips to make this recipe
Use plain cooked salmon or canned salmon with bones removed. If the mix falls apart, add more breadcrumbs or one more egg. Chop the onion and pepper small so the patties hold together. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches so each patty gets space to brown. For less oil, shallow-fry and turn carefully. To add flavor, mix in a bit of mustard or fresh herbs. For sweet notes, see ideas from a candied salmon guide and adapt sparingly.
Variation
You can change the mix-ins easily. Swap bell pepper for celery or grated carrot. Use panko for a lighter crust or crushed crackers for a softer texture. Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Add chopped herbs like dill or parsley for fresh taste. If you want a spicy version, add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeño. If you need gluten-free patties, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Some swaps change texture, so test one change at a time.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned salmon?
A: Yes. Drain and flake it well before mixing.
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
A: Yes. Bake at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: How do I stop patties from falling apart?
A: Add more breadcrumbs or an extra egg to bind them.
Q: Can I make the mix ahead?
A: Yes. Make the mix and shape patties, then refrigerate until ready to fry.
Conclusion
This recipe saves time and uses few ingredients. It makes quick meals that taste good and store well. For another easy version, see an easy Salmon Patties recipe at Natasha’s Kitchen. For budget-minded ideas and swaps, check a helpful salmon patties guide at Budget Bytes.
Print
Salmon Patties
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Description
Quick and healthy salmon patties made from cooked salmon, breadcrumbs, and spices, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon, cooked and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, mayonnaise, egg, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Serve with your choice of sauce or over a salad.
Notes
Let the pan reach medium heat before adding patties to ensure they brown instead of steam.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
