These salmon patties are super easy to make and packed with flavor! Just mix salmon, breadcrumbs, and a few spices, then fry them up for a tasty meal in no time.
I love how quickly they come together. Perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something delicious without a fuss! Plus, they’re great with a squeeze of lemon on top!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Canned salmon is perfect for this recipe, providing great taste without all the prep. If you’re not a fan of salmon, you could use canned tuna or even cooked crab meat for a different flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs give the patties a nice texture. If you want a gluten-free version, try crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Panko breadcrumbs can also work well to create an extra crunch!
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds moisture and richness. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream, which will still give a creamy texture but with less fat.
Onion: Chop onions finely for the best flavor. If you’d like to reduce the onion’s bite, sauté them for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture, or use green onions for a milder taste.
Egg: The egg acts as a binder. If you need an egg substitute, try 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Salmon Patties?
To achieve delicious, crispy patties, the frying technique is key. First, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding oil. Here are some steps to follow:
- Heat your skillet on medium until it’s warm. Add olive oil; it should shimmer but not smoke.
- Shape your mixture gently into patties, making them about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
- Cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the temperature and cause sogginess.
- Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown. Don’t rush; let them develop that crunchy crust!
After cooking, always place them on paper towels to absorb extra oil – this keeps them crisp! Enjoy!
World’s Easiest Pan Fried Salmon Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1 can (15 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
For Frying:
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15 to 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and simple meal that’s ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, chopped onion, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Use a fork or your hands to mix everything together until it’s well-combined and holds together nicely.
2. Shape the Patties:
With your hands, shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. You should get around 8 to 10 patties from this recipe. Try to make them even in size so they cook evenly!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the patties. If you don’t have a large skillet, you can cook the patties in batches so they have room to fry nicely.
4. Fry the Patties:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties to the pan. Fry each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready to flip when they easily lift away from the pan.
5. Drain and Serve:
After cooking, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and not too greasy.
6. Enjoy!
Serve the salmon patties hot, garnished with lemon slices on the side for a zesty touch. Enjoy your delicious and easy pan-fried salmon patties!
Can I Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you’d like to use fresh salmon, simply cook it first (grilling or baking works well) until it’s fully cooked through, then flake it and use it in place of the canned salmon. Keep in mind that you might need to adjust the amount of breadcrumbs slightly, as fresh salmon can be a bit moister.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt works great! You can also use sour cream, or if you want a dairy-free option, try avocado or a vegan mayo. Just remember that different substitutes might slightly change the flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment!
Can I Make the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to shape and fry the patties. This will also help the flavors to develop further!
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon Patties?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side, or pop them in a toaster oven until warmed through to retain their crispiness!
