Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, nostalgic dinner that always satisfies, Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties are the answer. This beloved classic brings together tender salmon, simple pantry staples, and just the right touch of seasoning—delivering a crispy-on-the-outside, moist-on-the-inside patty that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you grew up with them or are discovering them for the first time, these Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties offer hearty flavor and a hint of retro charm that’s impossible not to love!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties truly special is how these everyday ingredients work together to create a dish with wonderful texture and flavor. Each element serves its purpose, and even the optional ingredients add a new twist if you like. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Canned pink salmon (14.75 oz): An easy and affordable source of protein—remove bones and skin for a smoother texture, or leave them for extra nutrition.
• Bread crumbs or crushed saltine crackers (1/2 cup): The secret binding agent that gives the patties their signature bite, and lets you use up odds and ends from your pantry.
• Finely chopped onion (1/4 cup): Adds a mellow sweetness and extra moisture that perfectly balances the savory salmon.
• Finely chopped green bell pepper (1/4 cup, optional): For a subtle pop of color and an extra fresh, zesty crunch—feel free to skip if you prefer.
• Eggs (2 large): Essential for binding everything together, giving the patties a pillowy interior.
• Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): A little touch of creamy richness that keeps the patties from drying out.
• Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds gentle tang and depth—don’t skip this, it really kicks up the flavor!
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the other flavors—adjust to your own taste.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a hint of background warmth without overwhelming the dish.
• Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons, for frying): Gives the patties that crispy, golden brown crust everyone loves.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Begin by draining your canned pink salmon thoroughly. Use a fork to flake the salmon into a medium bowl, taking a moment to remove any visible bones or skin if you prefer a completely smooth texture. This step ensures the salmon is evenly textured and ready to soak up all the flavorful additions to come.

Step 2: Mix in the Rest of the Ingredients

Add the breadcrumbs or crushed saltines, finely chopped onion, green bell pepper (if you’re using it), eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper into the bowl with your flaked salmon. Mix everything together well—the eggs help bind, the mayonnaise adds richness, and the rest bring that trademark flavor. If your mixture seems too wet to hold together, sprinkle in a touch more breadcrumb or cracker until it reaches a consistency you can shape easily.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into six equal portions and press each into a firm, compact patty. Don’t be shy about giving them a gentle squeeze—compact patties hold their shape far better in the skillet, so this step is worth a little extra effort.

Step 4: Pan-Fry to Perfection

Heat your vegetable oil in a sturdy skillet over medium heat. When it’s hot (a drop of water should sizzle!), carefully place each patty in the pan. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You’re looking for a deep golden crust that forms as the patties cook through. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to catch any excess oil after frying.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties are irresistible while warm and crispy, so serve them up right away with fresh lemon wedges, tangy tartar sauce, or over a simple salad. Whether you eat them as a main course or tuck them into a sandwich, they’re dinnertime gold.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties

Garnishes

Simple touches make Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties shine. A wedge of lemon gives a bright, zesty finish, while a drizzle of homemade tartar sauce brings out the richness. If you’re feeling fancy, scatter a little fresh parsley or chives over the top for color and a mild oniony bite.

Side Dishes

These patties love the company of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, or a light cucumber salad. For a lighter meal, pair them with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to mop up any leftover bits!

Creative Ways to Present

Try tucking your Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties into a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a retro fish burger, or serve them over a bed of warm rice pilaf and steamed veggies. They’re also delicious as smaller “sliders” for party appetizers—just shape the mixture into bite-size rounds and fry as usual.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any patties left (lucky you!), let them cool fully before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They actually taste even better after a day as the flavors mingle and settle in.

Freezing

Want to prep a batch of Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties for busy nights? Once cooked and cooled, layer them between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that just-fried crispiness, reheat thawed patties in a skillet with a light spray of oil over medium heat. You can also use an air fryer for a couple of minutes until heated through. While the microwave works in a pinch, it’s not ideal for maintaining their signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just cook and flake fresh salmon (about 1 3/4 cups), and follow the recipe as written. It makes for an even more luxurious version of Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties.

What if my patties keep falling apart?

This usually means the mixture is a bit too wet or not packed tightly enough. Add a few extra breadcrumbs or crackers and make sure you’re pressing the patties together really well before frying.

Do I have to include the green bell pepper?

Not at all! The bell pepper adds color and flavor, but you can skip it or swap in celery or even grated carrot for a personal twist on Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties.

Are Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free bread crumbs or crackers, the recipe can easily be adapted for a gluten-free diet. Always check your canned salmon and condiments for hidden gluten to be safe.

What dipping sauces go well with salmon patties?

Classic tartar sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon, spicy remoulade, or a creamy dill-yogurt sauce all make fantastic sides for Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties. Feel free to get creative and match the sauces to your mood!

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the simple joy of sharing Old-Fashioned Salmon Patties fresh from the skillet—a timeless dish that’s always cozy, flavorful, and ready in minutes. Give this recipe a try and put your own spin on it; you might just find it becomes a regular at your dinner table!

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