Crispy Salmon Cakes

Featured in Sophisticated Dinners Ready in 45 Minutes or Less.

Fast salmon cakes made with canned salmon, onions, and spices. Crunchy exterior, soft middle. Done in 25 minutes, makes 6 pieces.
Sarah
Updated on Mon, 14 Apr 2025 21:19:47 GMT
Crispy golden salmon cakes Pin it
Crispy golden salmon cakes | chefmiarecipes.com

Turn ordinary canned salmon into crispy, gold-brown cakes with this classic approach. These soft yet filling patties mix flaky fish with fresh flavorings and spices, making a cheap dinner that feels fancy.

When I was little, salmon patties were what my grandma made best. She always told me that taking out the tiny bones actually cuts down calcium, so we kept them in for better nutrition.

Smart Ingredient Picks

  • Canned salmon: Go for wild-caught to get the tastiest, healthiest option
  • Fresh flavorings: Tiny-chopped onions give the base flavor you need
  • Holding stuff: Fresh eggs and mayo help everything stay the right texture
  • Breadcrumbs: Using panko makes them airier than regular crumbs
  • Flavor boosters: Fresh lemon cuts through the rich salmon taste
  • Cooking oil: Pick a plain oil that won't burn at high heat

Making Flawless Cakes

Fish Prep:
Take off skin but keep those bones for extra nutrients and feel
Mix Creation:
Stir salmon with veggies and binding ingredients until barely combined
Cake Shaping:
Form into same-sized patties without handling too much
First Cool:
Let patties sit in fridge to help them keep their shape
Careful Cooking:
Wait till oil sparkles before dropping patties in
Brown Beauty:
Fry until deep golden color, flipping just once
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Pin it
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties | chefmiarecipes.com

My favorite memory as a kid was helping shape these patties while grandma told stories about making them when money was tight.

Tasty Pairings

Serve with homemade tartar sauce and fresh lemon slices for that traditional touch.

Yummy Twists

Throw in fresh herbs, capers, or small bits of celery for something different. Try coating with panko for extra crunch.

Keeping It Fresh

Keep uncooked patties in the fridge up to 24 hours. After cooking, they'll stay good for two days.

These patties are comfort food at its best - basic ingredients turned into something amazing through simple care and skill.

Easy Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe Pin it
Easy Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe | chefmiarecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can fresh salmon replace canned?
Sure, about 2 cups of cooked, flaked fresh salmon will work.
→ How should I store extra cakes?
Pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
→ Is freezing these cakes possible?
Absolutely, freeze either raw or cooked for up to three months.
→ What are good sides with salmon cakes?
Pair them with rice, salads, roasted veggies, or a dollop of tartar sauce.
→ Can these be baked instead of fried?
Yes, pop them in a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes on each side.

Crispy Salmon Cakes

Golden, crispy salmon cakes made with canned fish and easy staples. A family-friendly, budget meal idea.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes

Category: Weeknight Elegance

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 6 Servings (6 patties)

Dietary: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
02 1/4 cup chopped onion, finely diced
03 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
04 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper (optional)

→ Binding & Seasonings

05 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 1 large egg, whisked
07 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
08 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
09 2 tablespoons mayo
10 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ For Cooking & Serving

12 Lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
13 2 tablespoons cooking oil

Instructions

Step 01

In a bowl, toss together the salmon, mayo, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings.

Step 02

Divide the mix into 6 portions and gently shape into patties about half an inch thick.

Step 03

Warm up oil in a pan over medium heat, then fry patties 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden.

Step 04

Let patties rest on paper towels to drain. Serve fresh with lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

  1. For binding, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
  2. The mixture can be chilled in advance for easier handling.
  3. You can customize with extras like fresh herbs or hot sauce.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Frying pan or skillet
  • Spatula
  • Fork or masher

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Fish
  • Eggs
  • Wheat