These 3 Ingredient Salmon Patties are quick, budget-friendly, and packed with protein. Made with canned salmon, eggs, and crushed crackers, they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfect for a fast lunch, dinner, or appetizer.
Recipe Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 6 patties |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Course | Main Course, Appetizer |
| Cuisine | American |
| Calories | Approximately 160 per patty |
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (14–15 ounce) can salmon, drained
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
Optional Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Large skillet
- Spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Drain the canned salmon.
Place it in a mixing bowl and flake it with a fork.
Remove large bones if desired (the small soft bones are edible and rich in calcium).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add:
- Eggs
- Crushed crackers
Mix until well combined.
The mixture should hold together when pressed.
If too wet, add a few more cracker crumbs.
Step 3: Form Patties
Shape the mixture into 6 equal patties.
Place them on a plate.
Step 4: Cook
Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium heat.
Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray both sides of the patties with cooking spray.
- Arrange in a single layer.
- Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties
Drain Well
Excess moisture can make the patties fall apart.
Don’t Overmix
Mix just until combined to keep the texture tender.
Chill if Needed
If the mixture feels soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes before shaping.
Use Fresh Cracker Crumbs
Freshly crushed crackers provide the best binding and flavor.
Flavor Variations
Lemon Dill Salmon Patties
Add:
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Spicy Salmon Patties
Add:
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Hot sauce
Cheesy Version
Mix in:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cajun Salmon Patties
Add:
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Herb Salmon Patties
Mix in:
- Parsley
- Chives
- Dill
What to Serve With
Side Dishes
- Coleslaw
- Garden salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Steamed green beans
Sauces
- Tartar sauce
- Garlic aioli
- Lemon yogurt sauce
- Remoulade
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.
Place parchment paper between layers.
Reheating
Air Fryer
Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes.
Skillet
Reheat over medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Per Patty (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cooked salmon?
Yes! Use about 2 cups flaked cooked salmon in place of canned salmon.
Why are my patties falling apart?
The mixture may need more crushed crackers or a short chilling time before cooking.
Can I bake them?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are canned salmon bones safe to eat?
Yes. The soft bones are edible and provide extra calcium.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free crackers instead of regular crackers.
Recipe Notes
✅ Only 3 main ingredients.
✅ High in protein.
✅ Budget-friendly meal.
✅ Air fryer friendly.
✅ Ready in just 20 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tip
Form the patties up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Serving Suggestion
Serve with a fresh salad, lemon wedges, and tartar sauce for a simple, satisfying meal. 🐟🍋✨
Chef’s Secret
For extra crispy salmon patties, lightly coat the outside with additional crushed crackers before cooking. This creates a delicious golden crust while keeping the inside moist and tender. 😋🐟✨
FAQs
Can I use pink salmon or sockeye salmon?
Yes! Either variety works well in this recipe.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Finely diced onions, bell peppers, or celery make great additions.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or light olive oil work well.
Can I make mini salmon patties?
Yes! They’re perfect as appetizers or party bites.
Are these good for meal prep?
Definitely! They reheat beautifully and make excellent lunches throughout the week. 🐟