Classic Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Salmon patties are a timeless comfort food that brings together the rich flavor of salmon, the heartiness of breadcrumbs, and the warmth of home-cooked seasoning. This classic old-fashioned recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these patties are simple to make yet packed with flavor. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this recipe will guide you step by step to create salmon patties that taste like they came straight from a family cookbook.
Ingredients Needed
To make the perfect salmon patties, gather the following ingredients. Precise measurements are included to ensure consistent results every time:
- 2 cans of salmon, 14.75 ounces each, drained and flaked
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 teaspoons vegetable oil for frying
- Optional 1 teaspoon lemon juice for added brightness
These ingredients come together to create patties that are moist, flavorful, and perfectly golden brown when cooked.
Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Salmon Mixture
Drain salmon and remove bones. Mix with onion, eggs, mayo, parsley, mustard, and seasonings. Fold in breadcrumbs until mixture holds.
Shaping the Patties
Divide the mixture into eight portions and gently shape each into a round, half-inch thick patty. Place on a parchment-lined plate.
Cooking the Salmon Patties
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Salmon patties are very versatile. You can add fresh herbs like dill or chives to enhance the flavor, or include finely grated vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and moisture. To make the patties healthier, you can bake them at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes instead of frying. You can also change the binder by using crushed crackers, oat flour, or panko in place of traditional breadcrumbs. Experimenting with these adjustments allows you to customize the patties to your taste.
Nutritional Information
Each salmon patty contains approximately 200 calories, 15 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat, including 2 grams of saturated fat, 12 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, 1 gram of sugar, and 400 milligrams of sodium. These patties are rich in protein and provide a good source of healthy fats, making them a nutritious and satisfying choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Salmon patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. They make a classic sandwich when placed on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce. For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. They also pair well with steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous for a filling dinner. For a protein-packed breakfast, enjoy them with scrambled eggs or a poached egg on top. Additionally, a homemade dill sauce, yogurt sauce, or even ketchup complements the crispy patties beautifully.
Classic Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
8
servings10
minutes10
minutes200
kcalCrispy on the outside and tender inside, these classic salmon patties are easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack.
Ingredients
2 cans salmon (14.75 oz each), drained and flaked
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
3 tsp vegetable oil for frying
Optional 1 tsp lemon juice
Directions
- Drain salmon and remove bones. Mix with onion, eggs, mayonnaise, parsley, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in breadcrumbs until mixture holds together.
- Divide into 8 portions and shape into round, half-inch thick patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not overmix the salmon mixture to keep patties tender.
- Chill mixture 15 minutes before shaping for better results.
- For a healthier option, bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes instead of frying.
- Customize with herbs, vegetables, or alternative binders like panko or crushed crackers.