Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are a simple, delicious way to enjoy tender salmon with a crispy, golden outside. These patties mix canned salmon with breadcrumbs, eggs, and just a few basic seasonings to create something hearty and satisfying. They come out perfectly flaky inside with a nice crunch on the outside, making them a real comfort food classic.
I love making these salmon patties when I want a quick meal that feels a little special. What’s great is how easy they are to throw together—you probably have most of the ingredients already. I like to add a squeeze of lemon or a little dollop of tart tartar sauce to brighten their flavor, which really wakes up the dish. A fun tip is to fry them in a mix of butter and oil for the best crispy texture without sticking.
These patties are fantastic served with a simple green salad or even on a soft bun as a sandwich with lettuce and mayo. I often bring them to family gatherings because everyone seems to enjoy them, and they’re easy to keep warm in the oven. Making salmon patties feels like a little nostalgic nod to the past, and they never fail to bring smiles at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Canned Salmon: The star of the dish! Use skinless, boneless canned salmon for easy prep. If you prefer, fresh cooked salmon can be flaked instead. Just make sure it’s not too wet so the patties hold together.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties. I often use plain or panko breadcrumbs for a light, crispy texture. If you’re gluten-free, crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes work well.
Eggs & Mayonnaise: Both act as binders to keep the patties from falling apart. If you want a lighter option, you can swap mayo for Greek yogurt or skip it totally and just add a little extra egg.
Onions and Bell Pepper: These add crunch and sweetness. If you don’t have bell pepper, just add more onion or some celery. Finely chop everything to avoid large chunks in the patties.
Seasonings: Mustard and Worcestershire sauce bring tang and depth. Feel free to adjust garlic powder, salt, and pepper to match your taste or add herbs like dill or chives for a fresh twist.
How Do You Get Perfectly Crispy Salmon Patties Without Falling Apart?
Making salmon patties that stay together and crisp nicely needs a bit of care. Follow these tips:
- Drain the salmon well and flake it nicely, removing all bones and skin.
- Combine all ingredients gently but thoroughly; don’t overmix or patties get tough.
- If mixture feels too loose, add more breadcrumbs a little at a time until it’s firm enough to shape.
- Shape patties evenly about 1 inch thick for even cooking.
- Use medium heat and a good amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking and create a golden crust.
- Let patties cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side before flipping to avoid breaking.
With patience and the right balance of ingredients, you’ll have perfectly golden salmon patties with a tender inside every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – great for easily combining all the ingredients without mess.
- Fork – perfect for flaking the salmon into small pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps get the right amounts for the best flavor and texture.
- Nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan – ensures the patties cook evenly and get crispy without sticking.
- Spatula – lets you gently flip the patties without breaking them apart.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped fresh dill or chives to brighten the flavor with a fresh herbal note.
- Mix in a tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning for a classic seafood spice twist.
- Stir in finely chopped cooked bacon for a smoky crunch that pairs well with salmon.
- Swap canned salmon for canned tuna or shredded cooked chicken for a quick change on protein.
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (14.75 oz each) salmon, drained and bones removed
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (can substitute crushed crackers or panko)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil or a mix of oil and butter for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Tartar sauce or a creamy dipping sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10–15 minutes to cook. So, in under 30 minutes, you’ll have golden, crispy salmon patties ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture:
In a large bowl, flake the drained salmon with a fork, removing any bones and skin. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but well until combined. If the mixture feels too loose to shape, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
2. Shape the Patties:
Form the mixture into patties about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Try to make them evenly sized so they cook through uniformly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the oil or a combination of oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the skillet without crowding. Fry each side for about 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip them gently to prevent breaking.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the patties and let them drain on paper towels if needed. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite creamy sauce like tartar sauce. They go perfectly with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for These Patties?
Yes, you can use cooked frozen salmon that’s fully thawed and drained well. Just flake it and follow the recipe as usual. Avoid excess moisture so the patties hold together better.
How Can I Make These Salmon Patties Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free crackers or crushed cornflakes. These alternatives still provide great texture and help bind the patties.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the patties a few hours ahead. Store them covered in the fridge and fry just before serving for the best crispy texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat or in the oven to keep them crispy.