Salmon Patties Recipe {Salmon Cakes} Cooking Classy (2024)

Published June 12, 2019. Updated April 23, 2020

Salmon Patties – perfectly crisp on the outside and deliciously tender and flaky on the inside! Made with fresh salmon instead of canned and full of flavor. A hearty salmon dinner that’s sure to impress!

The Best Salmon Patties – AKA Salmon Cakes

Who can resist a freshly pan fried salmon patty? Perfectly golden brown and brimming with fresh flavor!

These aren’t as easy as some versions you may find with canned salmon but I’m telling you it is well worth the extra step of chopping up and using fresh salmon! There’s just no comparison.

These are perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs, lemon zest and dijon and they have just enough fat to keep them tender. And the panko bread crumbs, mayonnaise and egg yolks help hold it all together.

Then that final breading adds a tempting crunch, and frying in olive oil adds more flavor (plus it’s a healthier option).

If you love salmon be sure to try this recipe, it does not disappoint!

What Ingredients go into Salmon Patties?

• Skinless salmon
• Panko bread crumbs
• Fresh parsley
• Green onions
• Garlic
• Mayonnaise
• Lemon
• Dijon mustard
• Old bay seasoning
• Egg yolk
• Olive oil
• Salt and Pepper

How do You Make Salmon Patties?

• Using a sharp knife coarsely chop salmon to a sausage like texture (approx. 1/4-inch pieces). This can also be done in a 3 batches in quick bursts in a food processor.

• Mix seasoning and binding ingredients: in a large mixing bowl stir together 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs, parsley, green onions, garlic, mayonnaise, lemon zest, dijon mustard, old bay seasoning, egg yolk, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.

• Mix in fresh salmon: add salmon then toss well to evenly coat with mixture.

• Divide mixture: scoop mixture 1/3 cup at a time creating 8 equal portions.

• Coat in bread crumbs: pour remaining 3/4 cup panko into a shallow dish.
• Press and shape portions into 3-inch patties.
• Coat both sides of salmon patties in bread crumbs (lightly press to help it stick).

How do You Cook Salmon Patties?

• Preheat oil in pan: pour 3 Tbsp olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet.
• Fry each patty until golden brown: add four salmon patties (if needed carefully tilt pan for oil to run under salmon if it isn’t already).
• Let fry until golden brown on bottom, about 2 minutes.
• Carefully flip and continue to cook until second side is golden brown and patties are just cooked through, about 2 minutes longer.
• Repeat: transfer to paper towels to soak up excess oil then repeat process with remaining four salmon patties.

Why Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned or Leftover?

• In my humble opinion I say why would we cook salmon twice? If you use canned or pre-cooked salmon then you’ll end up with overcooked salmon that’s not as tender and flaky. This method gives the perfect end result.
• Update: I’ve had several readers mention they used canned salmon and it worked out well, so just use what you prefer :).

What Sauce Should I Serve On Them?

These are so good they really don’t need anything extra but if you prefer you can try them with one of these:

• Fresh lemon juice
• Dill sauce
• Tzatziki or other Greek yogurt sauce
• Hollandaise sauce
• Mustard sauce (mix 1/4 cup sour cream, 1/4 cup mayo, 1 Tbsp lemon, 1 1/2 Tbsp dijon and 2 tsp fresh dill)
• Tartar Sauce
• Remoulade sauce
• Mashed or sliced avocado

What Sides to Serve with Salmon Patties?

• Steamed vegetables such as asparagus or green beans
• Roasted veggies such as Parmesan Roasted Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts or broccoli
• A rainbow of Roasted Vegetables or this blend of Roasted Potatoes Carrots and Green Beans
• Side salad with a light dressing
• Baked French Fries or Baked Sweet Potato Fries

More Salmon Favorites to Try:

• Seared Salmon with Garlic Lemon Butter Sauce
• Panko Crusted Honey Mustard Salmon
• Parmesan Crusted Salmon
• Grilled Lime Salmon with Mango Salsa
• Teriyaki Salmon