How to Make the Perfect Classic Salmon Patties
American · Easy · 22 min · 4 servings
Crispy golden salmon patties made from pantry staples come together in under 30 minutes. They are tender inside with a satisfying crunch on the outside.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Salmon Patties recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 22 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 310 calories with 28g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 9 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 14.75 oz canned salmon, drained and flaked
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 0.25 cup celery, finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp neutral oil for frying
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix the Salmon Mixture
In a large bowl combine drained and flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, diced celery, parsley, and garlic powder. Mix gently with a fork until just combined. Do not overmix or the patties will become dense and tough.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into eight equal portions and gently shape each into a patty about half an inch thick. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for five minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add neutral oil. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly. The oil is ready when a small breadcrumb dropped in sizzles immediately.
Step 4: Pan Fry the Patties
Add patties to the hot skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for three to four minutes on the first side without moving them until a deep golden crust forms. Flip once and cook another two to three minutes on the second side.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or alongside a simple green salad.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- canned salmon → canned tuna or leftover cooked salmon
- breadcrumbs → crushed crackers or panko
- mayonnaise → Greek yogurt for a lighter version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Skipping the chilling step which causes patties to fall apart when flipped
- Using too high heat which burns the outside before the inside is heated through
- Not draining the canned salmon well enough which makes the mixture too wet to hold together
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 310 calories, 28g protein, 14g carbs, 16g fat, 1g fiber.
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