Introduction
Canned Salmon Patties are a crispy, flavorful dish, perfect as a quick dinner, lunch, or appetizer. This budget-friendly recipe, featuring flaky canned salmon bound with breadcrumbs and seasonings, then pan-fried to golden perfection, delivers satisfying, crowd-pleasing taste with a crunchy exterior and tender center. Served hot and presented on a white ceramic platter, optionally garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley, this Canned Salmon Patties recipe offers a rustic, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a simple stovetop method with pantry staples, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for busy home cooks seeking a go-to meal that brings warm, delightful charm to any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Canned Salmon Patties:
- 2 (14.75 oz) cans salmon, drained and flaked (bones/skin removed if desired)
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Optional: Lemon wedges, tartar sauce, remoulade
- Suggested Accompaniments: Coleslaw, roasted veggies
- Suggested Pairings: Iced tea, white wine
- Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
- Suggested Equipment: Large mixing bowl, skillet, spatula, paper towels
Step-by-Step Process
- Prep Salmon: Drain salmon, remove large bones and skin if preferred, and flake into a large bowl.
- Mix Binders: Add egg, mayonnaise, Dijon, lemon juice, parsley, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir until combined.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Fold in panko until mixture holds together but isn’t dry. If too wet, add 1–2 tbsp more breadcrumbs.
- Form Patties: Shape into 8 equal patties (about ⅓ cup each). Press gently to compact.
- Chill (Optional): Refrigerate patties for 15–30 minutes to firm up (helps prevent breaking).
- Cook: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Work in batches; add oil as needed. Drain on paper towels.
- Adjust Flavor: Taste one patty and adjust future batches with more salt, lemon, or spice for balanced flavor.
- Serve: Arrange on a white ceramic platter with lemon wedges and parsley. Serve hot with tartar sauce or coleslaw, paired with iced tea or white wine.
Tips for Better Canned Salmon Patties
- Remove bones for a smoother texture, but they’re edible and add calcium.
- Chill formed patties for easier handling and better shape retention.
- Use panko for extra crispiness; regular breadcrumbs work too.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches for even browning.
- Present on a white ceramic platter to highlight the golden crust.
- Make ahead: Form patties up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate covered.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning before the center warms.
- Enhance aesthetic: Serve with a bright lemon wedge for a fresh pop.
Variations and Customization
- Gluten-Free Canned Salmon Patties: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Low-Carb Canned Salmon Patties: Replace breadcrumbs with ⅓ cup almond flour + 1 tbsp coconut flour.
- Spicy Canned Salmon Patties: Add ¼ tsp cayenne or 1 tbsp hot sauce.
- Herbed Canned Salmon Patties: Add dill, chives, or tarragon.
- Baked Canned Salmon Patties: Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Salmon Cakes with Fresh Salmon: Use 1 lb cooked fresh salmon.
- Mini Salmon Patties: Make 16 smaller patties for appetizers.
- Air Fryer Canned Salmon Patties: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooked or uncooked patties (layered with parchment) for up to 2 months; reheat in a skillet or oven.
- Serve hot for the best crispy texture and flavor.
- Use as a main, sandwich, or salad topper.
- Pair with iced tea or white wine to complement the savory, tangy notes.
- Presented on a white ceramic platter with garnishes for a rustic, appetizing charm.
Nutritional Information
Based on 8 patties (1 per serving):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 6% Daily Value
- Calcium: 15% Daily Value
- Iron: 8% Daily Value
Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (gluten-free or low-carb options adjust carbs). High in protein and omega-3s.
Conclusion
This Canned Salmon Patties recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful dish perfect for quick dinners or appetizers. It transforms pantry staples into a satisfying favorite. Its simple preparation and rustic presentation make it a go-to. The golden crust and tender center delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its convenient, crowd-pleasing charm.

Canned Salmon Patties Recipe: Crispy and Flavorful
Ingredients
- 2 14.75 oz cans salmon, drained
- ¾ cup panko
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp parsley
- 2 green onions
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika
- 2 –3 tbsp oil
- Optional: Lemon tartar sauce
- Suggested Pairings: Coleslaw iced tea
Instructions
- Flake salmon; remove bones/skin.
- Mix with egg, mayo, Dijon, lemon, and seasonings.
- Fold in panko; form 8 patties.
- Optional: Chill for 15 minutes.
- Fry in oil for 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
- Drain on paper towels.
- Serve on a white ceramic platter with lemon.
Notes
- Chill for easier handling.
- Store in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Try a baked or gluten-free variation.
- Pair with remoulade.







