Classic Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy Weeknight Meal
Step back in time with these incredible Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties, a cherished family recipe just like Grandma used to make. This beloved dish transforms simple pantry ingredients into irresistibly crispy, golden-brown, pan-fried patties that are bursting with savory flavor. Requiring just a handful of staple ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe is a true weeknight hero. Customize the seasonings to perfectly suit your family’s preferences and rediscover a time-honored, comforting way to enjoy the delicious versatility of salmon. These patties are not only incredibly easy to prepare but also provide a wholesome and satisfying meal that will evoke a sense of nostalgia with every bite.
For a complete and utterly classic dining experience, serve these homemade salmon patties alongside a medley of delightful side dishes. They pair beautifully with creamy textures and fresh flavors, making them a versatile star on your dinner table. Imagine them next to a warm bowl of Homemade Creamed Corn, a refreshing Easy Edamame Salad, or a hearty Potato Casserole. Each side dish adds a unique element, creating a well-rounded and deliciously memorable meal that’s both comforting and impressive.
⭐ Why You’ll Love These Classic Salmon Patties
Salmon Patties are celebrated for their incredible versatility, offering endless possibilities for customization. This recipe serves as a perfect canvas, allowing you to explore countless seasoning combinations and add-ins to tailor it precisely to your family’s palate. Whether you prefer a touch of spice, fresh herbs, or a burst of zesty citrus, these patties can be adapted to your taste. (Keep reading below for an extensive list of variations, substitutions, and optional additions to spark your culinary creativity!)
These wonderfully crispy, pan-fried salmon patties are delightful when served with a wide array of side dishes and vibrant salads. I personally adore pairing them with a light and refreshing Sweet Corn Pasta Salad, a wholesome Mixed Bean Salad, or a creamy Red Potato Salad. Each of these options introduces a fantastic variety of flavors and textures that beautifully complement the rich taste of the salmon, elevating your meal from simple to spectacular.
The patties are cooked to golden perfection in hot oil, but don’t worry – it’s not deep-fried! The technique is akin to pan-frying dishes like Crusted Chicken Romano, where you use just a thin layer of oil at the bottom of your skillet. This method ensures a wonderfully crispy exterior without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the salmon or making the patties greasy. You’ll achieve that desired crunch with less oil, making for a healthier and equally delicious result.
This recipe thoughtfully utilizes readily available ingredients such as canned salmon and crushed Ritz crackers. Both are easy to keep stocked in your pantry, meaning you can whip up these comforting Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties whenever a craving strikes or you need a quick, satisfying meal. Their accessibility makes this dish a reliable and beloved choice for busy weeknights.
Pro Tip for Ultimate Convenience: Canned salmon is already cooked and perfectly ready to use straight from the can, saving you valuable time. However, if you happen to have leftover cooked or baked fresh salmon, it works wonderfully as a substitute in this recipe, adding another layer of versatility!
🥘 Essential Ingredients for Your Pantry
Salmon: The cornerstone of our patties! While any brand of canned salmon will work, I find the pink salmon variety often available at Costco to be a fantastic choice for both quality and value. When selecting canned salmon, always look for labels that proudly state “wild,” “wild-caught,” or “from Alaska” to ensure you’re getting the best possible product with superior flavor and nutritional benefits. Pink, sockeye, and red varieties of salmon are typically considered the highest quality for their taste and texture. Remember to thoroughly drain the salmon before flaking, and if your canned salmon contains skin or bones, remove them for a smoother patty texture.
Crackers: For that perfect crispy texture and rich, buttery flavor, Ritz crackers are my absolute top choice for crushing into crumbs and incorporating into these salmon patties. Their unique composition creates an ideal binder and adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the salmon. If Ritz aren’t available, don’t worry, there are excellent alternatives discussed in the substitutions section below.
Eggs: Eggs are crucial in this recipe, acting as the primary binding agent that holds all the delicious ingredients together. They ensure the patties maintain their shape, especially when sizzling in hot oil, preventing them from crumbling apart during cooking. Regardless of any other ingredient variations you decide to explore, always ensure you include eggs – or an appropriate “binder” ingredient – to achieve perfectly formed and intact salmon patties.
Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is non-negotiable for elevating the flavor of these patties. Its bright, acidic notes cut through the richness of the salmon, adding a vibrant zest that truly awakens the palate. It’s a simple addition that makes a huge difference.
Green Onions: Finely sliced green onions provide a subtle, fresh onion flavor and a mild crispness without being overpowering. They add a lovely herbaceous note and a touch of color to the patties.
Dried Parsley Flakes: Parsley is a classic herb pairing for fish. Dried parsley flakes bring a gentle, earthy freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile without dominating the salmon. It’s a subtle but important aromatic touch.
Vegetable Oil: A thin layer of vegetable oil in your skillet is essential for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust and crispy exterior. Opt for a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point for the best frying results.
For a comprehensive list of all ingredients and precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card located further down below.
📖 Creative Substitutions for Your Salmon Patties
This is where the magic of old-fashioned salmon patties truly shines, showcasing their adaptability and making them a fun and versatile dish! Your grandmother or mother likely had her own treasured combinations for preparing them, and these suggestions will help you craft your unique family favorite. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this recipe your own!
Red Onion: For a slightly sharper, more pungent flavor, feel free to swap the two tablespoons of finely diced green onion for an equal amount of red onion, chopped very finely. The robust taste of red onion adds a wonderful depth that complements the salmon beautifully. And for a delightful bonus, use any leftover red onion to whip up a delicious Creamy English Pea Salad to serve alongside your patties.
Saltines or Panko Crumbs: If Ritz crackers aren’t on hand, or if you prefer a different texture, you can easily use the same amount of crushed saltine crackers. Saltines offer a more neutral, savory flavor and a satisfying crispness. Alternatively, Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent choice, providing an even lighter, airier, and super crispy coating that many absolutely adore. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free Panko or use finely crushed gluten-free crackers.
Mayonnaise or Mustard as a Binder: If you’re out of eggs or prefer a slightly different flavor profile, a tablespoon or two of mayonnaise can act as a fantastic binder, adding creaminess and a subtle tang. Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard can also be used, contributing a pleasant savory depth and helping to bind the ingredients.
Herbs: While parsley is classic, don’t hesitate to substitute or add other fresh herbs like chives, cilantro, or even a touch of thyme for different aromatic notes. Fresh dill is a particularly fantastic pairing with salmon, as detailed in the variations section.
Spices: Beyond the core seasonings, consider a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky undertone, a dash of garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic, or a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. These small additions can dramatically change the flavor profile.
🥘 Exciting Ingredient Variations to Try
Unleash your inner chef and customize your salmon patties by mixing and matching two or three of the following ingredients. Discover the perfect combination that your family will adore and make these delicious patties uniquely yours!
- Diced Celery: For an added layer of freshness and a delightful crunch, stir in two tablespoons of very finely diced and chopped celery. The celery contributes a subtle, clean flavor and a wonderful textural contrast to the soft salmon patties.
- Fresh Dill: The distinctive, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavor of fresh dill is an absolute dream with salmon. Depending on how prominent you want the dill flavor to be, use 1 to 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh dill. I highly recommend starting with 1 tablespoon the very first time you incorporate dill into your salmon patties, then adjust upwards the next time to find your ideal balance.
- Old Bay Seasoning: If you’re a fan of classic seafood flavors, two teaspoons of this beloved, robust seafood seasoning will be just about perfect for significantly boosting the taste of your salmon patties. It offers a unique blend of spices that sings with salmon. Keep this versatile seasoning on hand in your cupboard; it’s also excellent for making Buttermilk Chicken Tenders or seasoning roasted vegetables.
- Minced Garlic: To enhance the savory depth of your salmon, finely chop or crush one or two cloves of fresh garlic, or simply stir in about 1 teaspoon of pre-minced garlic with the other patty ingredients. Garlic adds a warm, aromatic foundation that perfectly complements the fish.
- Mayonnaise: Beyond its role as a potential binder (similar to eggs), a dollop of mayonnaise adds a wonderful richness and helps to keep the patties moist and tender. It also contributes a slightly creamy texture and a touch of that irresistible tangy mayo flavor, making the patties even more succulent.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A little goes a long way with Worcestershire sauce, but just a ½ teaspoon can work wonders. It subtly boosts the umami richness and deepens the savory flavor of the salmon patties, adding a complex note that will have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
- Dijon Mustard: A teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add a sharp, tangy kick and help emulsify the patty mixture, ensuring everything holds together beautifully while infusing a sophisticated flavor.
- Finely Diced Bell Peppers: For a touch of sweetness, color, and a slight crunch, add 1-2 tablespoons of finely diced red or yellow bell pepper. It’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables.
- Capers: If you love a briny, salty burst of flavor, chop a teaspoon of capers and mix them in. They pair exceptionally well with salmon and lemon.
🍽 Transform Salmon Patties into a Delightful Appetizer
While typically served as a satisfying main course, these versatile salmon patties can also be transformed into elegant and crowd-pleasing appetizers! Simply make each patty smaller – about the size of a quarter or a silver dollar – then fry them until golden and crispy. These mini patties are perfect for dipping or stacking. Their flavors meld wonderfully with a rich, creamy Simple Artichoke Parmesan Dip during the appetizer round, offering a gourmet twist on a classic. Alternatively, for a unique and utterly charming finger food, slice Basic Biscuits in half, place a perfectly cooked mini salmon patty in the center, and serve them as delightful salmon sliders! Garnish with a tiny sprig of fresh dill or a dollop of tartar sauce for an extra touch of sophistication.
👩🏻🍳 Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
Crafting these classic salmon patties is easier than you think! Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly crispy and flavorful results every time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cracker Crumbs. Begin by counting out approximately 25 Ritz crackers. These will form the crucial binding agent and add a rich, buttery flavor to your patties. (Photo #1)
Step 2: Crush the Crackers. Place the counted crackers into a sturdy zipped-top plastic food storage bag. Seal the bag securely, removing as much air as possible. Using a rolling pin, gently yet firmly crush the crackers into fine crumbs. Ensure there are no large chunks remaining for a uniform patty texture. (Photo #2)
Step 3: Achieve the Right Consistency. Continue crushing the crackers until they reach the consistency of coarse, dried breadcrumbs. This ensures they will effectively bind the salmon and other ingredients, leading to a perfectly formed patty. (Photo #3)
Step 4: Prepare the Salmon. Open your canned salmon and drain any liquid thoroughly. If you are using salmon with skin and bones, carefully remove them at this stage. Transfer the drained and cleaned salmon into a medium-sized mixing bowl, then use a fork to flake the salmon apart into small, consistent pieces. (Photo #4)
Step 5: Combine All Ingredients. Add all the remaining ingredients – including your freshly crushed Ritz cracker crumbs, whisked eggs, fresh lemon juice, finely sliced green onions, and dried parsley flakes – into the bowl with the flaked salmon. (Photo #5)
Step 6: Thoroughly Blend the Mixture. Stir everything together until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed throughout the salmon mixture. To ensure consistent patty sizes, use a ½ cup measuring cup to scoop out the filling ingredients. Each scoop will provide just the right amount to form one generously sized salmon patty. (Photo #6)
Step 7: Start Shaping the Patties. Carefully empty the ½ cup measuring scoop of salmon mixture onto the palm of your hand. (Photo #7)
Step 8: Form Consistent Patties. Using both hands, gently but firmly pat and shape the filling mixture into a round, flat patty. Aim for a diameter of about 4 inches across and a thickness of approximately one inch. This size ensures even cooking and a satisfying bite. (Photo #8)
Step 9: Prepare for Frying. Continue using the ½ cup scoop and your hands to form the remaining salmon patties. As you shape each one, place them neatly on a foil-lined plate or a baking sheet. This keeps them organized and ready for the skillet. (Photo #9)
Step 10: Heat the Oil. Pour ¼ cup of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet. Place the skillet over medium-high heat and allow the oil to heat up until it begins to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. Carefully place 3-4 salmon patties into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Depending on the size of your skillet, you will likely need to fry the salmon patties in two or more batches to allow for even cooking and a crispy crust. (Photo #10)
Step 11: Fry to Golden Perfection. Fry the patties for approximately 8 minutes on the first side, until deeply golden brown and crispy. Then, using a spatula, carefully flip them over and fry for another 5-6 minutes on the second side. Keep a close eye on the patties as they cook; if they start to brown too quickly, simply reduce the heat slightly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. The goal is a beautiful golden-brown crust and a thoroughly warmed interior. (Photo #11)
Step 12: Drain and Serve. Once cooked to perfection, use a spatula to carefully remove the crispy patties from the hot oil. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, ensuring they remain wonderfully crisp. For serving, cover the cooked patties loosely with aluminum foil to keep them warm while you finish frying any remaining batches. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings and sides! (Photo #12)
💭 Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Mushy salmon patties are usually a result of incorrect cooking temperature or insufficient cooking time. The key is to **monitor the heat in your skillet carefully**. We want the oil to be hot enough for the patties to sizzle and develop a crispy crust, but not so hot that they burn on the outside before cooking through. A medium-high heat is typically ideal. Furthermore, it’s crucial not to rush the cooking process. Allow the salmon patty ingredients ample time to properly connect, firm up, and cook through. This usually means approximately 8 minutes on the first side and another 5-6 minutes after you flip them. This patience will be rewarded with a perfectly cooked, firm, and flavorful patty!
Absolutely! Using fresh salmon is a fantastic option and can offer a slightly different texture and flavor. To adapt this recipe for fresh salmon, you’ll first need to cook a salmon fillet. You can bake it, poach it, or pan-sear it until it’s just cooked through. Once cooled slightly, flake the cooked salmon with a fork, ensuring to remove any skin or bones. Keep in mind that fresh salmon may have a less soft texture than canned, and its moisture content can vary. You might need to adjust the amount of binder (cracker crumbs or even an extra egg) to help the patties hold their shape properly. Start by incorporating the flaked fresh salmon, then add cracker crumbs gradually until the mixture is firm enough to form patties without crumbling.
There are several indicators that your salmon patties are perfectly cooked. Visually, both sides of the patty should be a beautiful golden-brown and wonderfully crispy around the edges. When you gently press the top of a patty with your spatula, it should feel slightly firm to the touch, indicating it has set and cooked through. For absolute certainty and peace of mind, especially when cooking with fresh salmon, you can use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), which ensures the patties are fully cooked and safe to eat.
The secret to well-structured salmon patties lies in achieving the perfect balance of moisture in your mixture – it should be neither too dry nor too wet. While blending your ingredients, take a moment to test the mixture: scoop a small amount and try to form a mini-patty in your hand. If it crumbles easily, the mixture is likely too dry, and you’ll need to add a bit more liquid (such as a splash of lemon juice, an extra whisked egg, or even a tablespoon of the reserved salmon can juice if it’s clean). If, on the other hand, the mixture feels too sloppy or sticky, it’s too wet, and you should incorporate additional crushed crackers or breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a firm, workable consistency that holds its shape. Proper binding is key to crispy, intact patties!
Yes, both uncooked and cooked salmon patties can be frozen! To freeze uncooked patties, form them as directed, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time. For cooked patties, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them similarly for up to 2 months. Reheat cooked patties in the oven for best crispness.
For pan-frying salmon patties, it’s best to use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point. Excellent choices include vegetable oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, or refined sunflower oil. These oils will get hot enough to create a crispy crust without imparting unwanted flavors or burning easily, ensuring your patties are golden and delicious.
🥘 Perfect Side Dishes for Salmon Patties
Homemade, Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and serve as the perfect main course for a vast array of side dishes. Their rich, savory flavor also makes them a fantastic canvas for various toppings and sauces, allowing you to create a unique culinary experience every time.
- For an unexpectedly vibrant and fresh combination, serve your crispy patties with a generous bowl of fresh Guacamole. The creamy avocado and zesty flavors provide a wonderful contrast.
- Alternatively, cook your favorite pasta and toss it with a bright, herbaceous fresh pesto. The aromatic basil and nutty notes of pesto complement salmon beautifully.
- Classic pairings like fresh lemon wedges (for a spritz of brightness) and a generous dollop of creamy tartar sauce are always a hit, enhancing the natural flavors of the salmon.
- Salmon patties are also exquisite when served with a bed of fresh, crunchy salad greens. Elevate a simple salad by topping it with a tangy Blue Cheese Vinaigrette, and even spoon some of this delectable dressing directly on top of each patty for a burst of flavor.
- A big bowl of fresh, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing and crisp counterpoint to the rich patties.
- For a delicious and tangy homemade side, slice crisp cucumbers and onions and make Homemade Refrigerator Pickles – their vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of the salmon.
- If you’re aiming for an impressive and truly indulgent potato side dish, prepare some Blue Cheese and Rosemary Scalloped Potatoes. The creamy, savory potatoes with hints of blue cheese and rosemary create an unforgettable pairing.
- Other excellent side options include fluffy rice pilaf, roasted asparagus, steamed green beans with a touch of butter, or a simple baked sweet potato.
Pro Tip for Leftovers: Store any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. To reheat, for a quick solution, use the microwave at half power, checking every minute until the patties are thoroughly warmed through. However, to best preserve their delightful crispiness, arrange the patties on a baking sheet, lightly cover them with aluminum foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
⭐ The Heartfelt Inspiration Behind This Recipe
This cherished recipe for Old Fashioned Salmon Patties holds a special place in my heart, as it’s one my incredible mom prepared countless times throughout my childhood. It was a staple in our home, a comforting and reliable meal that always brought smiles to our faces.
When I finally asked her for the recipe years later, she chuckled and said, “There is no recipe! I just make them from my head.” Thankfully, after some gentle persuasion, she eventually jotted down her intuitive method and sent it my way. Thanks, Mom, for sharing your culinary wisdom and this delicious piece of our family history!
Both of my parents have a knack for creating mouthwatering, seafood-inspired recipes that deserve to be shared. Be sure to explore some of their other fantastic creations, like the perfectly crisp Ivar’s Copycat Fried Cod and the wonderfully tender Skillet Glazed Salmon. These recipes are testament to their love for delicious, home-cooked seafood.
🍽 More Effortless Dinner Recipes to Enjoy
One of the many wonderful qualities of salmon patties is how quickly they come together, from preparation to frying. If you appreciate easy, delicious, and fast dinner solutions, you’ll love these other fantastic recipes that promise both simplicity and satisfying flavors!
- 10 Delicious Dutch Oven Chicken Recipes
- Hearty Dutch Oven Pot Roast
- Easy Pork Tenderloin with Zesty Orange Sauce
- Simple & Satisfying Lazy Lasagna
If you’ve had the pleasure of trying these Old Fashioned Salmon Patties or any other delightful recipe from my website, please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating and share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your feedback means the world to me!
Recipe Card
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
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Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed Ritz cracker crumbs – approximately 25 Ritz crackers
- 18-19 ounces canned salmon, drained – 3, 6-ounce cans with no skin or bones, or 2 14.75-ounce cans (remove skin and bones if present)
- 2 large eggs – whisked
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice – freshly squeezed is best
- 2 tablespoons green onions – finely sliced
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- ¼ cup vegetable oil – for frying
Instructions
Prepare Cracker Crumbs
- Place about 25 Ritz crackers into a sealed, zipped-top plastic food storage bag. Use a rolling pin to crush the crackers until they become fine crumbs, similar to coarse breadcrumbs.
Mix the Patty Ingredients
- Drain the canned salmon thoroughly. If using canned salmon that includes skin and bones, place the contents in a bowl and carefully remove these before proceeding.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, whisked eggs, fresh lemon juice, finely sliced green onions, dried parsley flakes, and your prepared cracker crumbs. Stir well to thoroughly blend all the ingredients until uniformly combined. (Don’t forget to check the recipe post above for a wide variety of delicious ingredient variations!)
- Using a ½ cup measuring scoop, portion out the salmon mixture. Gently use your hands to shape each scoop into a flat, round patty, about one inch thick. This recipe yields approximately 6 generous-sized patties.
Pan-Fry the Patties
- Pour the vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until the oil begins to shimmer, indicating it is hot and ready.
- Carefully place the salmon patties into the hot oil. Ensure you do not overcrowd the skillet; leave at least an inch or two of space between each patty to allow for even browning. You will likely need to cook the patties in multiple batches.
- Fry the patties for approximately 8 minutes on the first side, until they are golden brown and crispy. Then, flip them over with a spatula and continue to fry for another 5-6 minutes, or until the patties are firm and beautifully golden. Keep a close watch on the patties while they fry; you may need to adjust the heat, lowering it slightly as the skillet and oil continue to heat up, especially after the first flip and when cooking subsequent batches.
Serve your perfectly cooked salmon patties immediately with fresh lemon wedges for squeezing, an extra sprinkle of diced green onions, and a dollop of your favorite tartar sauce for an unforgettable meal.
Notes
Speaking of old-fashioned favorites, don’t forget to complete your meal with a classic dessert. Indulge in my Old-Fashioned Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a truly comforting treat!
Please note, the nutrition details provided are estimated using a food database, so they’re intended as a rough guide rather than exact scientific figures.