Quick and easy salmon patties are an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. These Easy Salmon Patties feature a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, making them perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings. Enjoy them as a main dish or serve them as an appetizer at your next get-together. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll find this recipe a delightful addition to your meal rotation.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Salmon
- For the Flavorings
- For Cooking
- How to Make Easy Salmon Patties
- Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
- Step 2: Mix in Eggs and Cheese
- Step 3: Add Panko Breadcrumbs
- Step 4: Shape Patties
- Step 5: Cook in Skillet
- Step 6: Finish Cooking
- How to Serve Easy Salmon Patties
- With Fresh Salad
- Tartar Sauce
- On a Bun
- With Lemon Wedges
- Avocado Slices
- As Part of a Platter
- How to Perfect Easy Salmon Patties
- Best Side Dishes for Easy Salmon Patties
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy Salmon Patties
- Reheating Easy Salmon Patties
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
- How do I make gluten-free Easy Salmon Patties?
- What sauces pair well with Easy Salmon Patties?
- Can I air fry Easy Salmon Patties?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes, these salmon patties make dinner a breeze.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, in a sandwich, or with a salad for a complete meal.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh dill and Parmesan cheese adds a burst of flavor that everyone will love.
- Healthy Meal Choice: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon, these patties are nutritious and satisfying.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these tasty bites, making them a hit at the dinner table.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delicious salmon patties.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Grater
- Non-stick skillet
- Spatula
- Baking sheet (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spillage.
- Grater: Using a grater ensures that the onion and garlic blend well into the mixture for even flavor distribution.
- Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking during cooking, making it easier to flip the patties without breaking them.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 400g/14oz cooked/canned salmon, drained well
- 2 shallots/green onions, thinly sliced
For the Flavorings
- 1/3 cup fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for pan-frying)
- Oil spray (for the baking sheet, optional)
How to Make Easy Salmon Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
- Drain canned salmon very well and flake it into a medium mixing bowl.
- Grate the small onion and mince the garlic clove into the bowl.
- Add the thinly sliced shallots or green onions and chopped fresh dill (or dried dill).
Step 2: Mix in Eggs and Cheese
- Crack the 2 large eggs into the bowl.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Add Panko Breadcrumbs
- Add the 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs to the mixture.
- Stir until everything holds together when pressed; avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Shape Patties
- Lightly wet your hands and shape the mixture into 4-6 patties about 1/2 inch thick.
- For baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet.
Step 5: Cook in Skillet
- Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place patties in hot oil without overcrowding.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
- Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- If baking, place on prepared sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Enjoy these Easy Salmon Patties as part of your healthy evening meals!
How to Serve Easy Salmon Patties
Serving easy salmon patties can elevate your meal experience. They are versatile and can be paired with various sides or toppings to suit different tastes.
With Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the patties nicely.
Tartar Sauce
- Serve with homemade or store-bought tartar sauce for a creamy contrast that enhances the flavors of the salmon.
On a Bun
- Place the salmon patty on a bun for a quick and satisfying sandwich. Add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
With Lemon Wedges
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish, adding a zesty flavor that pairs well with the richness of the salmon.
Avocado Slices
- Top your salmon patty with creamy avocado slices for added texture and healthy fats.
As Part of a Platter
- Serve the patties as part of an appetizer platter alongside dips like hummus or guacamole for entertaining guests.

How to Perfect Easy Salmon Patties
To make sure your easy salmon patties turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh dill and high-quality salmon will enhance the overall flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your patties tender.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before shaping into patties; add more salt or pepper if needed.
- Chill before cooking: Letting formed patties chill in the fridge for 15 minutes helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
- Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on them while cooking, as different pans may heat differently.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick!
Best Side Dishes for Easy Salmon Patties
Pairing side dishes with your easy salmon patties can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh crunch and pairs well with salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with veggies provides protein and fiber, making it a hearty side.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory salmon patties.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings brightness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the patties.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf enhances the meal’s heartiness and is easy to prepare alongside the patties.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Easy Salmon Patties.
- Skipping the draining step: Ensure you drain the canned salmon thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the patties soggy.
- Overmixing the ingredients: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough patties instead of tender ones.
- Not using fresh herbs: Fresh dill adds great flavor. If you use dried, remember that less is more—use only 1 teaspoon.
- Ignoring cooking temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can burn the patties. Medium heat allows for a crispy outside and a cooked inside.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven: If baking, always preheat your oven. A hot oven ensures even cooking and browning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Easy Salmon Patties in an airtight container.
- They will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy Salmon Patties
- Place patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Salmon Patties
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Salmon Patties.
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh salmon. Just make sure it is flaked and properly seasoned.
How do I make gluten-free Easy Salmon Patties?
Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
What sauces pair well with Easy Salmon Patties?
Tartar sauce, lemon-dill sauce, or even a light yogurt sauce complement these patties beautifully.
Can I air fry Easy Salmon Patties?
Absolutely! Air frying gives them a delightful crispiness without much oil. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Salmon Patties are not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices or serving with various dips. Try them out for your next weeknight dinner!
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Easy Salmon Patties
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Enjoy these Easy Salmon Patties as a quick weeknight meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. Try this recipe tonight!
Ingredients
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 400g cooked/canned salmon (drained)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion (grated)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, flake the drained salmon. Add grated onion, minced garlic, chopped dill, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Stir in the panko breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together.
- Form the mixture into patties (4-6) about ½ inch thick.
- Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) on a greased baking sheet for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying/Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (70g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





