Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe – Crispy, Easy & Delicious

old fashioned salmon patties recipe
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Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe has always been a cherished Southern tradition. Growing up in a family kitchen, these crispy salmon patties weren’t just a meal — they were a memory. The sizzle of salmon frying in a cast-iron skillet brings back the warmth and comfort of those family dinners.

These delightful patties are the ultimate comfort food — simple, flavorful, and made with love. Whether you’re looking for an easy salmon patty recipe or craving a budget-friendly dinner, this classic dish delivers every time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn a can of salmon into a delicious, golden-brown meal your family will love

Why These Classic Salmon Patties Are a Family Favorite

Salmon patties are a beloved dish in American homes. They mix simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia into one tasty meal. Making salmon patties is more than cooking—it’s keeping a family tradition alive through food.

Southern Comfort Food Heritage

Salmon patties come from Southern cuisine. They show how to make a tasty meal from simple ingredients. These patties were a smart way for families to eat well without spending a lot.

  • Passed down through generations of home cooks
  • Represents resourcefulness and culinary creativity
  • Embodies the spirit of Southern home cooking

Perfect for Quick Weeknight Meals

Wondering how to make salmon patties for a quick dinner? They’re incredibly easy. Most recipes take under 30 minutes, perfect for families with busy schedules.

“Salmon patties are the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing!” – Southern Home Cooking Magazine

Budget-Friendly Protein Option

Protein can be pricey, but salmon patties are affordable. You can use canned or fresh salmon to make a healthy meal without spending a lot. They’re a smart choice for adding protein to your family’s meals.

  • Uses affordable canned or fresh salmon
  • Provides high-quality protein at a low cost
  • Versatile enough for multiple meal styles

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Patties

To make tasty salmon cakes, you need the right ingredients. Your recipe starts with a few key parts. These parts turn simple ingredients into a meal you’ll remember.

The main ingredient is high-quality canned salmon. Choose wild-caught salmon for its rich flavor and health benefits. Make sure it’s packed in water to keep your patties moist.

  • Canned salmon (primary protein source)
  • Eggs (binding agent)
  • Bread crumbs or crushed saltine crackers
  • Finely chopped onions
  • Fresh herbs like parsley

Seasoning can make your salmon cakes go from good to great. Here are some classic choices:

  1. Old Bay seasoning
  2. Lemon pepper
  3. Dijon mustard
  4. Garlic powder
  5. Salt and black pepper

For gluten-free patties, use almond flour or gluten-free panko instead of bread crumbs. These options keep the patties crispy and fit dietary needs.

The secret to perfect salmon patties lies in balancing moisture and selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe – Step by Step Instructions

Learning to make salmon patties is simple. This recipe uses easy ingredients and methods to create a tasty meal. You’ll learn to make crispy, flavorful patties that everyone will love.

Preparing the Salmon Mixture

First, get your ingredients ready. Use high-quality canned salmon for a convenient and affordable protein. Drain the salmon well and remove bones for a better texture.

  • Drain and flake canned salmon in a large mixing bowl
  • Add finely chopped onions and bell peppers
  • Mix in breadcrumbs for binding
  • Incorporate one beaten egg
  • Season with garlic salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley

Forming and Shaping the Patties

Proper formation is crucial for cooking salmon patties. Use a heaping tablespoon for consistent sizes.

  1. Gently mix all ingredients until well combined
  2. Form mixture into uniform patties about 2-3 inches in diameter
  3. Press patties firmly to remove air pockets
  4. Place formed patties on a clean plate

Cooking Methods and Times

Getting the perfect golden-brown exterior is key. Here’s a quick guide to different cooking methods:

Cooking MethodTemperatureCooking Time
Skillet FryingMedium-high heat3-4 minutes per side
Baking400°F12-15 minutes
Air Fryer375°F8-10 minutes

Choose your method, but make sure the patties reach 145°F for safety. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade salmon patties!

Tips for Achieving Crispy Golden-Brown Exterior

Learning to make salmon patties with a crispy exterior is key. It’s all about choosing the right cooking surface and controlling the heat.

A cast iron skillet is the best for golden edges. Here are some important tips for making salmon patties:

  • Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat
  • Use oils with high smoke points like vegetable or avocado oil
  • Ensure patties are evenly thick for consistent browning
  • Pat salmon mixture dry before forming patties

Temperature control is crucial when cooking salmon patties. If they brown too fast, lower the heat. This keeps them from burning and ensures they’re cooked inside.

Pro tip: Test the oil’s readiness by dropping a small breadcrumb into the skillet. If it sizzles right away, your pan is ready for crispy salmon patties.

“The key to perfect salmon patties is patience and precise heat management.”

Butter adds great flavor but burns quickly. For the best results, mix butter with oil. This will help you get that perfect golden-brown look.

Best Types of Salmon to Use

Choosing the right salmon is key for great salmon patties. It affects flavor, nutrition, and taste. Knowing the differences between salmon types helps make the best patties.

Canned Salmon: A Convenient Choice

Canned salmon is great for patties. It’s cheaper and easy to use. Look for labels that say:

  • Wild-caught
  • Alaskan salmon
  • No added preservatives

Fresh vs. Canned Salmon Comparison

FeatureCanned SalmonFresh Salmon
CostLowerHigher
ConvenienceReady to useRequires preparation
NutritionHigh proteinFresh nutrients

Wild Caught vs. Farm-Raised Salmon

Knowing where salmon comes from is important. Wild-caught salmon has:

  • Better omega-3 content
  • More natural diet
  • Lower environmental impact

Farm-raised salmon is consistent but might not taste as good. Choose wild-caught for the best flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Guidelines

Easy Salmon Patty Recipe Storage Tips

Preparing an easy salmon patty recipe ahead of time can save you precious minutes during busy weeknights. With the right storage techniques, you can enjoy delicious salmon patties without compromising their flavor or texture.

When it comes to storing your homemade salmon patties, follow these essential guidelines:

  • Cool the salmon patties completely before storing
  • Use airtight containers for maximum freshness
  • Refrigerate for up to 3 days
  • Freeze for extended storage up to 3 months

For refrigeration, place your cooked salmon patties in a sealed container. Layer them with parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. Pro tip: Write the date on the container to track freshness.

Freezing your easy salmon patty recipe requires a bit more preparation. Wrap each uncooked patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to thaw only the number of patties you need.

Reheating frozen or refrigerated salmon patties is simple. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For a crispy exterior, use an air fryer or cast-iron skillet.

Quick leftover idea: Transform your salmon patties into a delicious sandwich or top a fresh salad for a quick meal!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Make your salmon cakes recipe canned even better with the right sides and sauces. These can turn a simple dish into a memorable meal. The perfect pairings will delight your family.

Classic Southern Accompaniments

Southern cuisine pairs well with salmon cakes. Here are some tasty side dishes that go great with them:

  • Creamy homemade macaroni and cheese
  • Tangy potato salad
  • Crunchy coleslaw
  • Warm, buttery cornbread
  • Sweet buttered corn

Sauce and Garnish Pairings

Adding the right sauce can elevate your salmon cakes. Try these flavorful options:

SauceFlavor ProfilePreparation Difficulty
Homemade Tartar SauceCreamy, tangyEasy
Lemon Dill SauceBright, herbalModerate
Fresh Lemon JuiceZesty, lightVery Easy

Pro tip: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. They add flavor and look great.

Modern Serving Ideas

Try new ways to serve your salmon cakes:

  1. As a gourmet burger on a soft brioche bun
  2. Atop a crisp mixed green salad
  3. Nestled in a wrap with fresh vegetables

These ideas will make your salmon cakes recipe canned a hit at any meal.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Salmon Patties Recipe Variations

Learning to cook salmon patties opens up a world of creativity. You can make this classic dish your own by changing flavors, ingredients, and dietary needs.

For protein, you have many tasty options:

  • Swap canned salmon with canned tuna
  • Use leftover cooked salmon
  • Try other canned fish varieties

Binding agents can be changed for different diets:

Traditional IngredientAlternative Substitution
Bread crumbsCrushed saltine crackers
Bread crumbsRitz crackers
Bread crumbsRolled oats
Bread crumbsCorn meal

Spice up your salmon patties with new seasonings. Try these exciting flavors:

  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Cajun spice mix
  • Creole seasoning

For a unique twist, add diced veggies like bell peppers or celery. They boost flavor and nutrition.

Pro tip: Try baking or air frying for a different cooking method. Find your favorite way to make salmon patties.

Conclusion

Your journey to make the perfect easy salmon patty recipe is complete. These classic salmon patties are more than a quick meal. They connect us to family traditions and home-cooked comfort. With just 20 minutes of prep, you can make a delicious dinner that makes everyone happy.

This easy salmon patty recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a budget-friendly protein option. You can adjust the recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs. It’s a flexible dish for cooks of all levels.

We encourage you to make this timeless recipe your own. Try new seasonings, cooking methods, or sides. Salmon patties are a culinary tradition waiting to be explored and shared with your loved ones.

Ready to make your own family favorite? Get ready, grab your ingredients, and start cooking. Your delicious salmon patty adventure begins now!

FAQ

What type of canned salmon is best for salmon patties?

Choose high-quality wild-caught pink or sockeye salmon. Make sure it’s without added preservatives. Opt for boneless and skinless for easier prep. Wild-caught salmon tastes better and is more nutritious than farm-raised.

Can I make salmon patties with fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, fresh salmon works great. Cook and flake it first, making sure it’s fully cooked. Fresh salmon might need some tweaks to the recipe to get the right moisture and binding.

How do I prevent my salmon patties from falling apart while cooking?

Mix your ingredients well and chill the mixture before shaping patties. Use enough eggs and breadcrumbs to bind. Chill the patties in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before cooking. This keeps them from crumbling.

Can salmon patties be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or alternatives like almond flour or ground oats. Make sure your canned salmon is also gluten-free.

What are the best cooking methods for salmon patties?

Pan-frying makes them crispy, but baking is healthier. Air frying is quick and crisp, while grilling adds smoky flavor. Adjust cooking times for each method.

How long can I store salmon patties?

Cooked patties last 3-4 days in the fridge. Uncooked ones can be frozen for 3 months. Use parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.

Are salmon patties nutritious?

Yes, they’re packed with protein, omega-3s, vitamin D, and minerals. The nutritional value depends on the salmon type and ingredients. They’re a healthy meal choice.

What are good side dishes to serve with salmon patties?

Try classic sides like coleslaw, green beans, mac and cheese, or potato salad. For something modern, go for quinoa salad, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. A tangy tartar or lemon-dill sauce is perfect with them.