Effortless Salmon Patties

Turn what you have in your pantry into crispy, golden bites of happiness with these classic salmon patties. Soft flakes of salmon blend with veggies and spices for crunchy outsides, tender middles, and all the cozy vibes that bring family meals to mind. I've made these so many times in my life, it's like a hug from the past each time. That smell while they're sizzling brings me right back to my grandma's old kitchen.

Delicious Ingredients

Pick up some bell pepper for a mellow crunch A can of salmon (wild is top notch) Breadcrumbs; Panko's really crunchy, regular works too Mayonnaise, the kind you love Juicy lemon for a pop of brightness Onion—grab a good one without squishy spots

How To Nail It

Let patties sit before serving, helps them settle Check the oil's hot but not burning so they get that shimmer-gold shell Shape up your patties, but don’t squeeze ‘em too tight Gently mix everything so stuff keeps its shape Drain salmon then flake it with a fork so it mixes up even

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My mom would always say to stash canned salmon in the cupboard—'You can whip up a proper meal in twenty minutes.' Still makes sense every time I make a batch.

Meal Upgrades

Pile these crunchy patties with bright green salad, old-school mashed potatoes, or slaw. Want it modern? Stick 'em in a soft brioche bun with tangy sauce and crisp lettuce.

Fun Swaps

Try a handful of parsley or dill, toss in some capers for a salty kick, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for more flavor. Gluten-free? Use special crumbs or smashed pork rinds.

Keep Them Fresh

Any uncooked mix chills in the fridge for a day. Once cooked, patties last up to three days, and you can warm them back up in a pan to get that outside crispy again. Years of making these have taught me: it’s all about balance and treating things gently. When you care for basic ingredients, you get something amazing in return.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ Do I need to take the bones out of canned salmon?

You don't have to—they're soft so you can eat them, and they actually add some calcium. But feel free to take them out if you don’t like them. If you mash it all up, you probably won’t even notice.

→ Why do my patties break apart?

Drain the salmon well and make sure to add that egg—it sticks everything together. Letting the mix chill in the fridge for half an hour helps a bunch, too.

→ Is it okay to bake instead of fry?

Totally! Pop them in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes, flip halfway. They won’t get as crisp, but the taste’s still great.

→ What goes well with salmon patties?

Serve these up with a salad, roasted veggies, or coleslaw. Toss ‘em on a bun if you want a sandwich.

→ Can these be frozen?

Yep! Freeze uncooked ones, put wax paper in between. Thaw them in the fridge, then cook them just like normal.