Canned Salmon Patties

This simple recipe for Canned Salmon Patties brings together tender salmon with fresh green onions and celery for a satisfying, flavorful meal. The bread crumbs help hold the patties together, while the mayonnaise and egg add moisture and richness, giving the patties a perfect texture.

Once formed, the patties are fried in butter, which enhances their flavor and provides a golden, crispy exterior. They pair beautifully with boiled potatoes, a hard-boiled egg, and cream gravy for a comforting, classic side. A bit of lemon juice and a sprinkle of dill give the patties a fresh, tangy finish that complements the savory flavors.

Serve with candied crunchy dill pickles for a hint of sweetness and crunch—ideal for a satisfying, balanced meal.

Why You’ll Love These Canned Salmon Patties:

Quick and Easy: Using canned salmon saves time and effort, making this a convenient option for busy days. With minimal prep and cook time, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes.

Affordable and Nutritious: Canned salmon is an affordable source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients. Paired with simple ingredients, these patties are both budget-friendly and nutritious.

Versatile and Customizable: You can enjoy these patties as a main dish, in sandwiches, or atop salads. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.

Perfectly Crispy: The butter-fried patties develop a golden, crispy crust that complements the tender, flavorful inside—a satisfying texture in every bite!

Key Ingredients:

Canned Salmon: Canned salmon is convenient and packed with nutrients. Make sure to drain it well and remove any skin or bones if desired. You can also use skinless, boneless canned salmon for a smoother texture.

Bread Crumbs: Bread crumbs help bind the patties, giving them structure. Regular or panko bread crumbs both work; panko will add a bit more crunch.

Green Onions: Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor without overpowering the salmon. Finely chop them to distribute the flavor evenly.

Celery: Adds a bit of crunch and freshness, which balances the richness of the salmon. Make sure to chop it finely for an even texture.

Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise brings a creamy texture and moisture, making the patties tender inside. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the patties hold together while cooking.

Butter: Butter gives these patties a rich, golden crust. You can also use oil, but butter adds the best flavor.

Lemon and Dill: The lemon adds brightness, and dill is a classic herb that complements the salmon’s flavor. These garnishes enhance the freshness and add a pop of color.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Salmon

Drain and Clean: Open the can of salmon and drain thoroughly. Remove any skin and bones for a smoother texture.

2. Mix Ingredients

Combine in Bowl: In a large bowl, add the prepared salmon, bread crumbs, chopped green onions, chopped celery, mayonnaise, and beaten egg.
Mix Thoroughly: Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined to form a cohesive mixture.

3. Form Patties

Shape into Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape each into a patty. These can be enjoyed immediately or saved as salmon burgers for the next day.

4. Cook the Patties

Melt Butter: In a large sauté pan, melt a small amount of butter over low heat.
Cook Patties: Place the patties in the pan and cook over medium heat until golden brown on both sides and heated through, about 4-5 minutes per side.

5. Serve

Serve with Sides: Plate the patties with boiled and diced potatoes, a hard-boiled egg, cream gravy, and candied crunchy dill pickles for a satisfying meal.
Garnish: Sprinkle a little dill seed and a splash of lemon juice over the patties for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

These salmon patties are delicious on their own, but here are some ways to enhance the meal:

Creamy Dip: Serve with a creamy dip like tartar sauce, dill aioli, or a lemony yogurt sauce.
On a Salad: Place the patties on a bed of mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes for a light, nutritious meal.
In a Sandwich or Wrap: Make a salmon patty sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mayo or Dijon mustard on a bun or wrap.
With Roasted Veggies: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or roasted sweet potatoes, for a balanced meal.

This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips:

These salmon patties are great for meal prepping and storing for later.

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to maintain their crispy texture, or in the microwave for a quick option.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked patties for easy meal prep. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed.

Reheating

Reheat leftover patties in a skillet for the best texture, or microwave if you’re short on time. If frozen, thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Recipe Variations to Try:

This recipe is versatile and easy to customize. Here are some ways to switch it up:

1. Spicy Salmon Patties

Add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or finely diced jalapeño to the mixture for a spicy kick.

2. Lemon Herb Salmon Patties

Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for extra flavor and a refreshing twist.

3. Mediterranean Salmon Patties

Add diced olives, crumbled feta, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mix for a Mediterranean-inspired version. Serve with tzatziki sauce for a tasty pairing.

4. Cheesy Salmon Patties

Mix in 1/4 cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, for a rich, savory flavor and extra gooey texture.

5. Low-Carb Salmon Patties

Substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for bread crumbs to make these patties low-carb and keto-friendly.

Conclusion:

Canned Salmon Patties are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and nutritious meal. With their crispy golden exterior and tender, savory interior, these patties are sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re serving them with a side of salad, in a sandwich, or with classic sides like potatoes and pickles, this easy recipe is a versatile and tasty option for any day of the week.

So grab a can of salmon and your favorite herbs, and enjoy this easy, delicious dish that’s ready in no time!