Crispy, golden old fashioned salmon patties recipe made with simple ingredients. Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for quick, healthy family dinners!

A close-up of golden, crispy salmon patties on a rustic wooden table, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The patties are stacked on a white plate, with a creamy tartar sauce in a small bowl nearby. In the background, a cozy kitchen setting with a skillet, fresh vegetables, and a warm, inviting ambiance. Use soft natural lighting to highlight the texture and vibrant colors.

Growing up, my kitchen was filled with the comforting aroma of my grandma’s cooking, and one dish that always brought the family together was her old fashioned salmon patties. 

These golden, crispy patties were a staple at our dinner table, made with simple ingredients that somehow turned into pure magic. 

I’d watch her mash up canned salmon with a fork, mix in a few pantry staples, and fry them to perfection in her trusty skillet. 

Now, every time I make these, it’s like a warm hug from those childhood memories. This recipe is my take on her classic, blending that nostalgic flavor with a few tips to make it foolproof for home cooks. 

Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or a budget-friendly dish that feels like home, these salmon patties are sure to hit the spot.

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Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe

These salmon patties are a perfect mix of crispy, savory, and satisfying, bringing a taste of home to your plate with minimal effort. 

They’re budget-friendly, using affordable canned salmon, and come together in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy evenings. 

Plus, they’re versatile—serve them as a main dish, in a sandwich, or even over a salad. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

  • Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
  • Crispy outside, tender and flavorful inside.
  • Budget-friendly and uses affordable canned salmon.
  • Kid-friendly and loved by all ages.
  • Freezer-friendly for meal prep.

Read Also: Healthy Salmon Recipe

Ingredients For Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients to create delicious salmon patties. Gather these items for a batch of 8 patties:

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

You’ll need just a few basic tools to whip up these salmon patties. Here’s what to grab:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make perfectly crispy salmon patties that are golden on the outside and tender inside.

1. Prepare the Salmon

Open the cans of canned salmon and drain the liquid completely. 

I like to use a fine-mesh strainer to make sure no excess liquid remains, as this can make the patties too wet. 

Place the salmon in a large mixing bowl and use a fork or potato masher to flake it into small pieces. 

If the salmon has bones or skin, don’t worry—they’re edible and add calcium, but you can remove them if you prefer a smoother texture.

2. Mix the Ingredients

To the flaked salmon, add 1 cup (120 g) breadcrumbs, 2 beaten eggs, 1/4 cup (60 g) finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup (60 g) finely chopped green bell pepper, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lemon juice, 1 teaspoon (5 g) Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) salt, 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 g) black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 g) garlic powder, and optional 2 tablespoons (8 g) chopped parsley. 

Mix everything gently with a fork until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too wet. 

If it feels too dry, add a splash of lemon juice; if too wet, sprinkle in a tablespoon more breadcrumbs.

3. Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions, about 1/4 cup (60 g) each. 

Use your hands to shape each portion into a patty about 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide and 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) thick. 

Press gently to ensure they hold together but don’t overwork the mixture, as this can make the patties dense. 

Place the formed patties on a plate and, if time allows, refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them firm up before frying.

4. Heat the Skillet

Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat until shimmering, about 3-4 minutes. 

To test if the oil is ready, drop a small pinch of breadcrumbs into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. 

Avoid overheating, as it can burn the patties.

5. Fry the Patties

Carefully place 4 patties in the hot skillet, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. 

Use a spatula to flip them gently to avoid breaking. If the skillet looks dry, add a bit more vegetable oil between batches. 

Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining patties.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salmon patties hot, garnished with extra parsley or a wedge of lemon for squeezing. 

They’re delicious on their own, in a bun, or paired with your favorite sides. 

Check the serving suggestions below for more ideas!

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Tips for Success

To make your salmon patties turn out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

  • Drain the canned salmon thoroughly to avoid soggy patties.
  • Chop onion and green bell pepper finely for even distribution.
  • Refrigerate the patties before frying to help them hold their shape.
  • Use medium heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet to maintain consistent oil temperature.

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Serving Suggestions

These salmon patties are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces. They’re great as a main dish or tucked into a bun for a hearty sandwich. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

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Variations to Try

Switch up the flavors or adapt the recipe to suit your preferences with these fun variations:

  • Add 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 g) cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Swap green bell pepper for diced celery for extra crunch.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier texture.
  • Mix in 1 tablespoon (15 g) chopped dill for a fresh, herby flavor.
  • Try baking at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes per side for a lighter option.

Read Also: Air Fryer Salmon Recipe

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover salmon patties to enjoy later. Here’s how:

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

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Nutritional Facts

Approximate nutritional information per patty (based on 8 patties):

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, and the other ingredients in these patties add flavor and health perks. Here’s why they’re good for you:

  • Canned salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart and brain health.
  • Eggs: High in protein and essential nutrients like choline for brain function.
  • Onion: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
  • Green bell pepper: Packed with vitamin C for immune support.
  • Lemon juice: Adds vitamin C and aids digestion.

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FAQs

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh salmon, but you’ll need to cook and flake it first. Bake or poach about 1 lb (450 g) of fresh salmon until fully cooked, let it cool, then flake it with a fork. Adjust seasoning as needed since fresh salmon is less salty than canned.

2. How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture isn’t too wet by draining the canned salmon well and adding extra breadcrumbs if needed. Chilling the patties for 15 minutes before frying also helps them hold together.

3. Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

4. Can I air-fry these salmon patties?

Yes, use an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. Lightly spray with cooking spray for crispiness. Check out our Air Fryer Salmon Recipe for more tips.

5. What’s the best way to serve these for kids?

Kids love these patties in a hamburger bun with a smear of ketchup or mayonnaise. Pair with simple sides like sweet potato fries or sliced veggies for a kid-friendly meal.

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Final Thoughts

These old fashioned salmon patties are more than just a meal—they’re a nostalgic trip back to simpler times, packed with flavor and made with love. 

I love how quick they come together, perfect for those nights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. 

The crispy exterior and tender, savory interior make them a hit with everyone at the table, from picky kids to food-loving adults. 

Plus, with the health benefits of salmon and the versatility to serve them in so many ways, this recipe is a keeper. 

Give it a try, and I bet it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation, just like it was in my grandma’s kitchen.

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