How to Make Easy Salmon Cakes (Salmon Patties Recipe

Craving something crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor in every bite? These salmon cakes might just become your new go-to comfort food—whether you’re working with leftover salmon or reaching for a can from the pantry.

This salmon cakes recipe is a deliciously simple way to bring something nourishing and satisfying to your table. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and uses everyday ingredients you likely already have. Perfect for busy weeknights, easy lunches, or even elegant appetizers for guests—this dish is as versatile as it is flavorful.

Whether you’re trying to eat more seafood or just looking for a fuss-free dinner idea, this salmon cakes recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic favorite. With a crisp golden crust and a moist, flaky center, it’s the kind of recipe that’s sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation.

What Are Salmon Cakes?

Salmon cakes, also known as salmon patties, are a delicious blend of flaked salmon mixed with breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings, and often some fresh herbs and vegetables, all formed into thick patties and pan-fried until golden and crispy. They’re a fantastic way to use leftover cooked salmon or canned salmon, making them a budget-friendly and convenient meal choice.

Unlike raw salmon, these salmon patties are fully cooked and have a wonderful texture contrast—the outside is perfectly crispy while the inside stays moist and flavorful. You can enjoy them on their own, with a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli, or served alongside fresh greens or a tangy balsamic salad.

Key points:

• Made with fresh or canned salmon.
• Crispy exterior, tender interior.
• Perfect for quick meals or make-ahead prep.

Love quick and flavorful patties? Don’t miss our Easy Salmon Cakes Recipe – a tasty twist using canned or fresh salmon.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Patties Recipe :

This easy salmon patties recipe stands out because it’s incredibly simple but yields professional-level results. You don’t need special ingredients or to spend hours cooking. With a handful of pantry staples like mayonnaise, Panko breadcrumbs, and fresh parsley, you can make salmon cakes that taste restaurant-worthy.

Here’s what makes this recipe special:

• The use of both olive oil and butter in the skillet creates a rich, golden crust that locks in moisture.
• A mix of fresh diced onions and bell peppers adds crunch and sweetness.
• Worcestershire sauce and a dash of garlic salt enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the natural salmon taste.
• The option to use canned salmon makes it accessible even if fresh fish isn’t available.

If you want a meal that’s wholesome, flavorful, and quick to make, this salmon cakes recipe is perfect for you.

Ingredients for Crispy Salmon Cakes :

Below is a table with the main ingredients you’ll need for about 13-14 salmon patties. I’ll also share some alternative options to help you customize the recipe to your taste or pantry supplies.

Why These Ingredients Matter :

• Salmon: The star of your patties. Fresh salmon offers vibrant flavor and flaky texture, but canned salmon is a convenient and budget-friendly alternative. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid soggy patties.
• Binders: Eggs and mayonnaise help hold the salmon mixture together so your patties don’t fall apart during cooking. Adding enough panko crumbs also contributes to the perfect texture.
• Flavor Enhancers: Garlic salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill give your salmon cakes a rich and balanced taste.
• Veggies: Onion and bell pepper add sweetness and a slight crunch, enhancing the patties’ overall flavor.

With these ingredients combined thoughtfully, your salmon patties will be crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with flavor every time.

If you’re into refreshing protein-packed salads, you’ll definitely enjoy our Salmon Patties Recipe — perfect for lunch or light dinners.

Step-by-Step Prep and Cooking Instructions :

Making crispy salmon cakes is easier than you might think, and with this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll end up with golden, flavorful patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together quickly — perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy make-ahead lunch.

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon (If Using Fresh)

If you’re using fresh salmon, you’ll need to cook it before mixing it into the patties.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly season the salmon fillet with a bit of salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Allow it to cool slightly, then flake the salmon into small pieces with a fork. Discard any skin or bones.

Shortcut: If you’re using canned salmon, drain it well and remove any bones or skin before flaking it.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

For enhanced flavor and texture, you’ll cook the onion and red bell pepper before mixing them into the patties.

1. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Stir in 1 cup of finely chopped onion and 1/2 cup of diced red bell pepper.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before adding to the salmon mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring all the components together into a cohesive, flavorful salmon patty mixture.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Flaked salmon (fresh or canned)
   • Sautéed onion and red bell pepper
   • 2 beaten eggs to binding
   • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
   • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
   • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
   • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
   • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
   • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2. Mix thoroughly using a spatula or clean hands until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be moist yet firm enough to hold its shape when formed.

Tip: Tip: If the mixture seems too wet, gradually add more breadcrumbs, one tablespoon at a time. If it feels too dry, mix in a bit more mayo.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

1. Use your hands or scoop the salmon mixture to divide the mixture into 8–10 equal portions, depending on your desired size.
2. Carefully form each portion into a round patty, roughly 1/2 inch thick. Press firmly to help them hold together.

Make-Ahead Tip: At this point, you can refrigerate the shaped patties for up to 24 hours or freeze them (uncooked) for up to 1 month.

Step 5: Pan-Fry the Salmon Cakes

Pan-frying is the best way to get that perfectly crispy crust.

1. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for a crispier crust
2. Add 3–4 patties at a time, making sure not to crowd the pan.
3. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown and heated through.
4. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and repeat with the remaining patties, adding more oil/butter as needed.

Pro Tip: Avoid moving the patties around too much during cooking so they develop a golden, crispy crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy salmon cakes hot with your choice of dipping sauces, a side salad, or roasted veggies.

Serving suggestions:

• Lemon wedges for a fresh squeeze of acidity
• Homemade tartar sauce or garlic aioli
• On a bun for a salmon burger twist
• Over mixed greens for a healthy lunch bowl

Extra Tips for Perfect Salmon Cakes :

• Uniform size: Keeping your patties the same size ensures even cooking.
• Moisture balance: Don’t skip the mayo—it keeps the patties juicy and flavorful.
• Rest time: If you have time, chill the patties in the fridge for 15–30 minutes before cooking. This helps them stay together better during frying.
• No-stick cooking: Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan to avoid sticking and crumbling.

With these detailed instructions, you’ll master the art of making crispy salmon cakes in no time. They’re simple, flavorful, and endlessly versatile — perfect for meal prepping or serving up to guests. Once you’ve made them, they’ll likely become a regular in your weekly rotation!

Looking for more protein-rich meals? Try these Salmon Cakes for a quick and nutritious seafood option.

Tips for Making Perfect Salmon Patties Every Time :

Salmon patties are a quick and satisfying meal, but a few smart tips can take them from good to great. Whether you’re using fresh or canned salmon, follow these tips to ensure your patties turn out crispy, flavorful, and perfectly held together every single time.

1. Drain the Salmon Well : If you’re using canned salmon, make sure to drain it thoroughly. Excess moisture can make the mixture too loose and cause the patties to fall apart during cooking. Use a fork to break up the salmon and squeeze out any excess liquid.

2. Use a Binding Agent : Eggs and breadcrumbs are your best friends here. They help hold the mixture together and provide structure to the patties. If your mixture feels too wet, add extra breadcrumbs a tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, a bit more mayo or a splash of lemon juice can help.

3. Sauté the Veggies First : Cooking the onions and bell peppers before mixing them in removes excess moisture and enhances flavor. Raw vegetables can release water during cooking, which weakens the structure of the patties.

4. Chill the Patties Before Frying : Let the shaped patties rest in the fridge for at least 15–30 minutes. This step helps them firm up and reduces the chance of breaking while frying.

5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan : When frying, cook the patties in batches with enough space between them. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and leads to uneven browning.

6. Use a Mix of Butter and Oil : Butter adds flavor while oil helps with even browning. A combination of the two gives your patties a golden crust without burning.

7. Don’t Flip Too Soon : Let the patties develop a nice crust before flipping—usually about 3–4 minutes per side. Turning them over too soon may cause them to fall apart.

8. Season to Taste : Taste the mixture before shaping (just a little bit) or fry one test patty. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed before cooking the entire batch.With these simple tips, your salmon patties will be crispy, flavorful, and restaurant-quality every single time!

How to Freeze and Reheat Salmon Cakes :

Salmon cakes are perfect for meal prep because they freeze and reheat beautifully. Whether you’ve made a big batch or want to save leftovers, here’s how to store them properly for future meals.

Freezing Cooked Salmon Cakes

1. Cool Completely
   Let the cooked patties cool to room temperature before freezing. Placing warm patties in the freezer can cause condensation, which leads to sogginess and freezer burn.
2. Wrap or Separate
   Place the cooled salmon cakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. If you stack them, place parchment paper between the layers to keep them from sticking.
3. Label and Store
   Label the container with the date and use the salmon cakes within 2–3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing Uncooked Salmon Cakes

1. Shape and Chill
   Form the patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up before freezing.
2. Flash Freeze
   Arrange the uncooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Next, transfer the salmon cakes to a freezer-safe bag or container, placing parchment paper between the layers to keep them separated.

How to Reheat

• From Frozen (Cooked):
  Place frozen patties on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil for 4–5 minutes per side.
• From Frozen (Uncooked):
  Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then cook as directed in your recipe.
• Microwave (Not Recommended):
  This method can make them soft and soggy, so it’s best to avoid unless you’re in a rush.

With the right method, you can enjoy delicious salmon cakes anytime — just thaw, reheat, and serve!

Serving Suggestions and Flavor Variations :

Salmon cakes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides, sauces, and toppings. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, in a sandwich, or as a party appetizer, here are some delicious ways to enjoy and customize them.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Main Dish
   Serve your salmon patties with classic sides like roasted potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple green salad. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.
2. With a Dipping Sauce
   These crispy cakes go wonderfully with sauces like tartar sauce, garlic aioli, lemon-dill yogurt sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice also adds a burst of brightness.
3. In a Sandwich or Burger
   Place a salmon cake on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and your favorite sauce for a satisfying salmon burger. Add avocado or pickles for an extra flavor boost.
4. On a Salad
   Top a fresh garden or Caesar salad with a warm salmon patty for a protein-packed lunch or dinner.
5. As an Appetizer
   Make mini salmon cakes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve them with dipping sauces and lemon wedges on the side.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Kick
   Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mixture for some heat.
2. Herb-Forward
   Mix in fresh dill, parsley, cilantro, or chives to enhance the herbal notes and balance the richness of the salmon.
3. Cheesy Twist
   Fold in shredded cheddar, parmesan, or feta for a creamy, salty addition.
4. Asian-Inspired
   Add grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Serve with a soy-lime dipping sauce or hoisin mayo.
5. Mediterranean Style
   Use sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and crumbled feta, and pair with tzatziki sauce for a refreshing spin.

Whether you’re sticking to a classic approach or getting creative with bold flavors, these salmon cakes are a canvas for all kinds of delicious meals.

salmon cakes recipe

Easy salmon cakes recipe made with canned salmon fresh dill, flaked salmon, and onion. This salmon patties recipe is perfect for make-ahead prep!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine American, seafood

Servings 8

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Mixing bowl (required) Medium size
• 1 Frying pan (required) Non-stick preferred
• 1 Spatula (required)
• 1 Measuring cups and spoons (required)

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb Fresh salmon filet
• 1 tsp Garlic salt
• ¼ tsp Black pepper
• 3 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 cup Medium onion (finely diced)
• ½ cup Red bell pepper (diced)
• 3 tbsp Unsalted butter
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
• 2 Large eggs (lightly beaten)
• 3 tbsp Mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ Fresh parsley (minced)

Instructions

 

• In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, parsley, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
• Shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
• Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the salmon cakes for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh cooked salmon if preferred—about 1 cup, flaked.
• Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a side salad.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Cakes :

What are the ingredients in salmon cakes?
Salmon cakes typically include flaked salmon (fresh or canned), breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, diced onions, bell peppers, and seasonings such as garlic salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

What’s the best way to prevent salmon cakes from breaking apart? Make sure to use enough binding ingredients, such as eggs and breadcrumbs. Chill the patties before cooking and handle gently when flipping.

Can I make salmon cakes ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking or freeze cooked patties for up to 3 months.

Are salmon cakes healthy?
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. These salmon patties are a nutritious meal when cooked with minimal oil and served with fresh veggies.

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Canned wild salmon works well and is more convenient. Just drain excess liquid and adjust breadcrumbs if needed.

Conclusion :

This easy salmon cakes recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood and quick, satisfying meals. Crispy on the outside and tender, flavorful on the inside, these patties are sure to become a family favorite in no time. Try making them this week and enjoy a wholesome homemade dinner.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with friends or save it for later. And don’t forget to check out my other delicious seafood recipes for more inspiration!