Easy Salmon Patties Recipe

Whip up crispy and flavorful salmon patties with this quick and easy recipe! Perfect for weeknight dinners, these patties combine canned salmon, fresh vegetables, and pantry staples for a budget-friendly, protein-packed meal. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or in a sandwich, this versatile dish offers a delicious way to enjoy seafood at home. Great for meal prep and ready in minutes, these salmon patties are a hit with all ages.

Ingredients

• 14-15 oz canned salmon or salmon in packets, well drained
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 1 medium yellow onion (1 cup), finely diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic salt (or substitute with 1/2 tsp fine sea salt and 1/4 tsp garlic powder, or season to taste)
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup parsley, finely minced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 7–9 minutes, or until golden and softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Mix the Salmon Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, sautéed onion and bell pepper, bread crumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and parsley. Stir until well combined.
3. Form the Patties: Using your hands, form the mixture into patties about 2 inches wide and 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Each patty should use approximately a heaping tablespoon of the mixture.
4. Cook the Patties: Heat the remaining 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a clean non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon patties in a single layer. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. If the patties brown too quickly, reduce the heat.
5. Serve: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with any remaining patties, adding more oil and butter as needed. Serve warm.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These salmon patties come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein, omega-3s, and vegetables for a wholesome meal.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even in a sandwich.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like canned salmon, making it an economical choice.

Tips

• Drain the canned salmon thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the patties.
• For evenly sized patties, use a cookie scoop to portion out the mixture.
• Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but dried parsley can work in a pinch.
• Keep the heat at medium to ensure the patties cook through without burning.

Variations and Substitutions

• Breadcrumbs: Substitute Panko with regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Vegetables: Add finely diced celery or carrots for extra texture.
• Protein: Replace salmon with canned tuna or cooked crab meat.
• Spices: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, cook and flake fresh salmon before using it in the recipe.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well-combined, and don’t skip the egg as it acts as a binder. Chilling the patties for 15 minutes before cooking can also help.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice for a complete meal.
• Pair with a dipping sauce like tartar, aioli, or sweet chili sauce.
• Use the patties in a burger with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

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