Description
These Easy Salmon Patties feature flavorful dried spices and fresh lemon zest combined with canned salmon, making a delicious and nutrient-rich weeknight meal or appetizer. Crisply pan-fried and finished in the oven for a perfect texture, they’re quick to prepare and great served with homemade tartar sauce.
Ingredients
Salmon Patty Mixture
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 can (14.75 ounces) salmon, drained
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup minced red bell pepper
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For Serving (Optional)
- 1 batch Sauce for Salmon Patties or Homemade Tartar Sauce
Instructions
- Make Seasoning Base: In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, grated lemon zest, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Salmon and Mix: Add the drained canned salmon, panko breadcrumbs, minced red bell pepper, sour cream, and all-purpose flour to the bowl. Gently mix these ingredients with a fork until just combined, being careful not to overmix for tender patties.
- Form and Chill Patties: Line a small rimmed baking pan with parchment paper. Shape the salmon mixture into generous ¼-cup patties about ½-inch thick. Place the patties on the prepared pan and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
- Preheat and Pan-Fry: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Working in batches if necessary, add the chilled patties to the skillet, cooking for 4 to 6 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn each patty only once halfway through cooking.
- Bake Patties to Finish: Transfer the cooked patties to a small rimmed baking pan (you may reuse the one from earlier after removing the parchment). Bake them in the preheated oven for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the center, ensuring they are fully cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the salmon patties hot with your choice of Sauce for Salmon Patties or Homemade Tartar Sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a fresh salmon alternative, try the Salmon Cakes From Fresh Salmon recipe designed specifically for fresh fillets.
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape and improves texture.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount to taste if you prefer more or less spice.
- Use a nonstick skillet and moderate oil to avoid sticking and promote even browning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
