If you’ve ever found yourself short on time but unwilling to compromise on a **healthy dinner**, these **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** are about to become your new weeknight hero! Boasting an irresistible combination of **nutritious ingredients** and incredible flavor, this recipe simplifies meal prep like never before. The secret weapon? **Canned salmon**, which means no last-minute thawing, making it a perfect **quick dinner idea** for bustling families, those on a budget, or anyone seeking a delicious meal in a flash. Forget the hassle of complicated dishes; these **easy salmon patties** are designed for effortless culinary success.
Every seasoned home cook knows the value of having a collection of “emergency” recipes – those reliable meals you can whip up with minimal effort and common pantry staples. These aren’t just any fallback meals; they’re culinary lifelines for those chaotic evenings when dinner plans go awry, or you simply crave something comforting and quick. These **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** fit that description perfectly, yet they offer so much more than mere convenience. They are a genuinely delicious and satisfying dish that feels anything but an “emergency” solution.
This recipe shines on those incredibly busy nights when time is a luxury, or when unexpected kitchen mishaps occur – like a forgotten-to-thaw roast or, perhaps, a mischievous pet making off with your rotisserie chicken. Trust us, these situations happen, and having a reliable, **quick and easy meal** like these **air fryer fish cakes** is invaluable. While salmon patties have long been a staple in my kitchen rotation, always keeping a few cans of salmon stocked in the pantry, preparing them in the air fryer is a relatively recent, game-changing discovery. For years, I perfected the art of pan-frying these savory cakes, but the air fryer elevates the experience, making them **all the more effortless** and incredibly delicious.
Why the Air Fryer is Your Best Friend for Salmon Patties
If you’re wondering what makes the air fryer the superior choice for crafting these delectable salmon patties, allow us to elaborate. Not only does this modern kitchen appliance make the cooking process incredibly simple, but the results are genuinely outstanding. Imagine patties that are gloriously **crispy on the outside**, beautifully **tender on the inside**, and – crucially for any fish cake enthusiast – consistently hold their shape without crumbling. Fish cakes and salmon croquettes have a notorious reputation for being on the fragile side, often requiring a delicate touch and experienced hand to ensure they stay intact during cooking.
However, with the air fryer, that concern becomes a thing of the past. The contained environment and circulating hot air cook the patties evenly and efficiently, minimizing the need for constant manipulation. With just a single flip at the halfway point, your **air fryer salmon patties** emerge perfectly formed and beautifully golden, far more reliably intact than their skillet-fried counterparts. This minimal handling significantly reduces the chances of breakage, ensuring every patty is a perfect disc of deliciousness. For these reasons and more, preparing **crispy salmon patties** in the air fryer has unequivocally become our preferred method, and we’re confident it will soon become yours too!
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Crafting these delectable **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** requires a handful of simple, readily available ingredients, many of which are likely already in your pantry. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor profile that makes this dish so universally loved. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Canned Salmon: The star of our show! You’ll need one 14-15 ounce can of salmon. Any brand you prefer will work beautifully. This ingredient is what makes this recipe so incredibly convenient and budget-friendly. For those who prefer to use fresh salmon, detailed instructions are provided in the “Substitutions” section of this post to guide you through preparing it for the patties.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for achieving that desirable crispy texture and for binding the patties together. Panko-style breadcrumbs are highly recommended over regular breadcrumbs due to their larger, flakier texture, which absorbs less oil and results in a lighter, crisper exterior. They consistently deliver the best results and avoid the “stale” taste sometimes associated with finer breadcrumbs.
- Fresh Parsley: For a burst of vibrant flavor and a touch of freshness, fresh chopped parsley is preferred. Its bright, peppery notes complement the salmon beautifully. However, if fresh isn’t an option, about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley can be used in a pinch, though the flavor will be less intense.
- Sour Cream: Just a touch of full-fat sour cream adds a wonderful tang, richness, and moisture to the patties. The additional fat contributes to a more tender texture and enhances the overall flavor, preventing the patties from becoming dry.
- Egg: This acts as the essential binding agent, helping all the ingredients adhere together. Without it, your patties would likely crumble, so don’t skip this crucial component!
- Dijon Mustard: A fantastic flavor enhancer, Dijon mustard offers a subtle sharp and tangy note that perfectly complements salmon, parsley, and lemon – all key players in this recipe. It adds depth without overpowering the delicate salmon flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: You’ll need about 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors of the salmon and other ingredients. Any leftover lemon can be used for a beautiful garnish, or better yet, to whip up a batch of our Simple Tartar Sauce recipe, a perfect pairing.
- Seasonings: A thoughtful blend of paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried dill weed are used to infuse these salmon patties with a wonderfully balanced and aromatic flavor. These spices are carefully chosen to enhance, not mask, the natural taste of the salmon.
- Hot Sauce: This is an optional but highly recommended addition. Just a dash of your favorite mild hot sauce, like Frank’s RedHot, adds a subtle layer of flavor without introducing noticeable heat. It’s a secret ingredient for a reason!
- Cooking Spray: Since we’re air frying, a light coating of oil is necessary to achieve that golden, crispy exterior. We recommend using an avocado oil cooking spray due to its neutral taste and high smoke point, making it stable for air frying. Any neutral-tasting cooking oil spray will work. Remember a crucial tip: always spray your patties *before* placing them in the air fryer basket. Spraying directly into a hot air fryer basket can, over time, damage the non-stick coating and potentially the appliance itself.
Recommended Air Frying Equipment
For consistent and optimal results, the right equipment can make all the difference. All our **air fryer recipes** are meticulously developed and tested using a Ninja Air Fryer. Its performance has been exceptional, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to invest in a reliable air fryer. A 5.5-quart model, such as this one, is quite similar to the model we personally use and love, offering ample space for most batches of these delicious salmon patties.
Crafting Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making these **easy air fryer salmon patties** is a straightforward process, even for beginner cooks. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your patties are perfectly formed, full of flavor, and wonderfully crispy every time:
To begin, retrieve your canned salmon. Carefully open the can and **drain the liquid** into a small bowl. It’s crucial to **reserve this liquid**, as it may be needed later to adjust the moisture content of your patty mixture. Place the drained salmon into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Using a fork, **finely flake the salmon**. During this step, gently crush any small, soft bones that may be present. These bones are typically edible and provide additional calcium, but you can remove them if you prefer a completely smooth texture.
Now, it’s time to add the wet ingredients and fresh aromatics. Into the bowl with the flaked salmon, add the large egg, sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh chopped parsley, and a dash of hot sauce (if you’re using it). **Mix all these ingredients thoroughly** until they are well combined. A fork or a small rubber spatula works perfectly for this.
Next, incorporate the dry binding agents and seasonings. **Add the panko breadcrumbs along with all the remaining seasonings** (paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and dill) to the salmon mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold these ingredients into the salmon until everything is evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher patties.
Check the consistency of your mixture. It should be moist enough to hold its shape without being overly sticky or crumbly. Take a small portion of the mixture in your hand and squeeze it gently. If it forms a compact ball that holds together well without falling apart, you have the right consistency. If the mixture feels too dry and crumbles, gradually add small amounts of the reserved salmon canning liquid, mixing after each addition, until the desired consistency is achieved. Conversely, if your mixture is too wet and sticky, add a tablespoon or two of additional breadcrumbs and mix again until it firms up.
Prepare a surface to rest your formed patties before they go into the air fryer. A quarter-size baking sheet lined with parchment paper is ideal, preventing sticking, but a simple plate will work just as well.
Using a large cookie scoop (like this one from OXO) helps create uniformly sized patties, ensuring even cooking. **Portion out the salmon cake mixture** onto your prepared surface.
Once all the mixture has been scooped, gently flatten each salmon mound with your hand. **Form each into a round, flat “cake”** approximately ½ to ¾ inch thick. Use your fingers to gently tighten and smooth the edges, ensuring each patty is compact and well-formed. This step is key to preventing them from falling apart during cooking.
Arrange all your formed patties on the lined baking sheet or plate. Before placing them in the air fryer, **lightly spray both sides of each patty with a neutral cooking oil** (such as avocado oil cooking spray). This step is essential for achieving that desirable golden-brown, crispy exterior.
Air Frying Salmon Patties: Cooking Time and Techniques
Mastering the air fryer for these salmon patties is surprisingly simple. Achieving that perfect crispy crust and tender interior is all about the right temperature and timing. Follow these guidelines to cook your **air fryer salmon patties** to golden perfection:
Preheat Your Air Fryer: First and foremost, you’ll need to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes, or according to your manufacturer’s specific instructions. Preheating is crucial as it ensures the air fryer is at the optimal temperature to start cooking immediately, leading to a crispier exterior right from the start.
Arrange Patties in the Basket: Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully remove the basket (using oven mitts or a hot pad, as it will be hot). **Place your formed and sprayed salmon patties into the basket in a single layer.** Ensure there is enough space between each patty for the hot air to circulate freely. Overcrowding the basket will result in steamed, rather than crispy, patties. This recipe yields approximately 10 Air Fryer Salmon Patties. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. For example, a standard 5.5-quart air fryer can comfortably fit about 6 patties at a time. If you have a larger model, you might be able to cook them all at once. For smaller models, working in multiple batches is necessary. However, you won’t need to preheat the air fryer in between batches since the basket will already be hot from the previous one.
Cook to Perfection: **Cook your salmon patties for a total of 8-10 minutes at 390°F (200°C).** At the halfway point (after 4-5 minutes), carefully remove the basket and **flip the salmon patties** using tongs or a spatula. This ensures even browning and crispiness on both sides. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking for the remaining time.
Check for Doneness: Your **crispy salmon patties** are done when they are beautifully golden brown on both sides and thoroughly warmed through. They should feel firm to the touch. The internal temperature is not typically a concern for canned salmon as it is pre-cooked, but ensuring they are heated through is important for taste and texture.
Serving Your Delicious Salmon Patties
Once cooked, serve your **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** immediately for the best texture and flavor. They are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of accompaniments. A classic choice is our homemade simple tartar sauce, which can be made quickly with just a few basic ingredients, often before your patties are even finished cooking! Alternatively, explore the other fantastic sauce options listed further down this post to find your perfect match. For an elegant presentation and an extra burst of flavor, garnish your plates with additional fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Pair them with your favorite side dishes – we’ve included some excellent suggestions below to inspire your meal planning!
Clever Substitutions for Your Salmon Patties
This **air fryer salmon patty recipe** is highly adaptable, allowing for several easy substitutions to cater to different dietary needs or preferences. Don’t have canned salmon? Looking for a low-carb option? We’ve got you covered:
- Using Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned: If you prefer to use fresh salmon, you will need approximately 1 pound of fresh salmon fillet. Before proceeding with this recipe, you’ll need to cook and flake the salmon. You can bake it in the oven (at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through) or follow a dedicated recipe for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon. Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then flake it into small pieces with a fork, removing any skin or bones.
- Low Carb/Keto Friendly Patties: To make these **healthy salmon patties** suitable for a low-carb or keto diet, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with a low-carb alternative. Use ½ cup of finely crushed pork rinds (they add a great savory crunch!) or a mixture of ⅓ cup almond flour combined with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Both options provide excellent binding and flavor without the carbs.
- Gluten-Free Salmon Patties: For a gluten-free version, replace the regular panko breadcrumbs with ½ cup of your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Alternatively, any of the low-carb/keto suggestions (crushed pork rinds or almond flour with Parmesan) are naturally gluten-free options that work wonderfully.
Delicious Variations to Explore
While these **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** are fantastic as is, they also serve as a wonderful base for other delicious fish cakes and variations. Get creative with these ideas:
- Air Fryer Tuna Patties: A popular and equally delicious alternative! Simply substitute the 14-15 ounces of canned salmon with an equivalent amount of canned tuna. You’ll likely need about 1 ½ to 2 cans of standard tuna (drained) to match the quantity. The cooking process remains the same, resulting in wonderfully crispy tuna cakes.
- Spicy Salmon Patties: For those who love a bit of heat, increase the amount of hot sauce, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Herby Mediterranean Patties: Introduce Mediterranean flavors by adding 1-2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill, oregano, or a mix of both. A tablespoon of finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes can also add a delightful savory depth.
- Lemon-Dill Salmon Patties: Enhance the bright, fresh notes by increasing the lemon juice to 2 teaspoons and adding an extra ½ teaspoon of dried dill (or a tablespoon of fresh dill).
The Best Dipping Sauces for Salmon Patties
No salmon patty is complete without a delicious dipping sauce! The right sauce can elevate your meal, adding moisture, tang, and an extra layer of flavor. Our absolute favorite, and a timeless classic for these **crispy salmon patties**, has always been and likely always will be tartar sauce. We highly recommend trying our super simple 4-ingredient recipe. It uses basic pantry staples and can be whipped up in minutes, ready by the time your patties finish cooking!
Beyond the classic, here’s a comprehensive list of other fantastic dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with **air fryer salmon cakes**:
- Tartar Sauce: The quintessential pairing, offering a creamy, tangy, and savory contrast that perfectly complements the rich salmon.
- Remoulade Sauce: A more sophisticated and often spicier alternative to tartar sauce, remoulade typically features mayonnaise, mustard, capers, pickles, and various herbs and spices, providing a zesty kick.
- Creamy Dill Sauce: A light and fresh sauce made with yogurt or sour cream, fresh dill, and lemon, enhancing the natural flavors of the salmon with its herbaceous brightness.
- Cocktail Sauce: A vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce with a hint of horseradish, offering a bold counterpoint to the savory patties.
- Sriracha Mayo: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this creamy and spicy sauce (a blend of mayonnaise and sriracha) adds a modern, flavorful punch.
- Lemon Aioli: A rich, garlicky mayonnaise-based sauce with a bright lemon flavor, adding an elegant touch.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a delightful sweet and spicy glaze that contrasts beautifully with the savory fish.
What to Serve with Salmon Patties for a Complete Meal
These versatile **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** are incredibly easy to pair with a variety of side dishes, making them a perfect center for a balanced and delicious meal. Whether you’re aiming for comfort food or something fresh and light, there’s a side to complement your crispy salmon cakes:
- Potato Croquettes: For a truly indulgent and satisfying meal, crispy potato croquettes are a fantastic choice, offering a delightful textural contrast.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the salmon patties, adding essential vitamins and fiber.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes offer a comforting and smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy patties, absorbing any delicious sauce.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier and flavorful alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to your plate.
- Air Fryer French Fries: Stick with the air fryer theme and whip up some perfectly crispy French fries. The convenience of cooking both components in the same appliance (perhaps in batches) is a major time-saver.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, tangy, and crunchy coleslaw is a traditional and excellent pairing, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm salmon.
- Steamed Green Beans with Lemon: A simple, healthy, and vibrant side that adds freshness and a hint of citrus.
- Roasted Asparagus: Earthy and slightly bitter, roasted asparagus spears make an elegant and healthy accompaniment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying these **easy salmon patties**:
The key to crafting **salmon patties that hold together** perfectly lies in a delicate balance of moisture and binders. You need enough binding ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs, but also sufficient moisture to create a cohesive mixture. This often comes down to “feel” rather than exact measurements, as canned salmon can vary in moisture content. The best technique is to take a small portion of the mixed salmon patty mixture in your hand and gently squeeze it. If it forms a firm ball that holds its shape without crumbling, you’re on the right track. If it crumbles easily, gradually add a tablespoon of the reserved liquid from the canned salmon or a touch of extra lemon juice, mixing well after each addition, until the mixture achieves the desired consistency. Conversely, if the mixture feels too wet or sticky, add a small amount of additional breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture.
Salmon patties typically fall apart during cooking for a few reasons. The most common is a mixture that is either too dry (lacking sufficient binder or moisture) or too wet (excess moisture preventing the binders from working effectively). However, excessive handling or flipping while they cook is another significant culprit. Fish cakes are delicate, especially when cooking. Allow your patties to cook fully and develop a crust on one side before attempting to flip them. Flipping them frequently or too early can disrupt their structure before they’ve had a chance to set, making them much more prone to breaking apart. The air fryer helps minimize this issue by requiring only one flip.
Adding robust flavor to **canned salmon patties** is easy and makes all the difference! The best way is through a thoughtful combination of fresh herbs and dried seasonings. Fresh chopped parsley is a must for its bright, clean notes. Beyond that, a blend of onion powder, garlic powder (optional, but great!), paprika, dried dill, salt, and black pepper creates a savory and aromatic foundation. Additionally, incorporating acidic and creamy elements like fresh lemon juice, tangy Dijon mustard, and a dollop of sour cream or mayonnaise significantly enhances the flavor and moistness. A dash of your favorite hot sauce can also add a subtle, complex kick without making the patties spicy.
While pan-frying has been a traditional method, the **absolute best way to cook salmon patties is in the Air Fryer!** This method offers several distinct advantages. Air frying achieves an incredibly crispy, golden-brown exterior while maintaining a tender, moist interior, often with less oil than traditional frying. Furthermore, the air fryer significantly reduces the need for constant flipping, typically requiring just one turn at the halfway mark. This minimal handling is crucial for delicate **fish cakes**, meaning your patties will hold together far better and be less likely to fall apart compared to cooking them in a skillet. It’s a faster, cleaner, and more reliable way to achieve perfect salmon patties every time.
Yes, **cooked salmon patties freeze wonderfully!** To freeze, first allow the cooked patties to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the patties to an airtight freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, you can pop them directly into a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy, flipping halfway. You can also reheat them in the oven.
Absolutely! These **Air Fryer Salmon Patties** are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet. Salmon, whether fresh or canned, is a lean protein source rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart and brain health. By cooking them in the air fryer, you use significantly less oil compared to pan-frying, reducing overall fat content without sacrificing flavor or crispiness. The inclusion of fresh herbs and lemon juice also contributes to a nutrient-rich and flavorful meal without excessive calories. They are a balanced meal option that is both delicious and good for you!
Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
- 1 14.75oz can of salmon
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley or 1 tsp. dried parsley
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- Dash of hot sauce optional
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ tsp. onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried dill weed
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- Avocado oil cooking spray or any neutral tasting cooking oil spray
Instructions
- Open the can of salmon and drain off the liquid into a small bowl. Reserve the liquid for later. If your salmon patties are a bit dry, you will use some of this liquid to moisten them.
- Add your drained salmon into a medium sized bowl. Use a fork to mash the salmon into flakes, and break down any small bones. If you wish, you can remove the bones.
- Crack your egg and add it to the bowl with the salmon. Then, add the sour cream, dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dash of hot sauce (if using). Mix this together with a fork or a small rubber spatula.
- Add the panko breadcrumbs and the remaining seasonings. Fold these in using a rubber spatula. Test your mixture to see if it will hold together by taking some in your hand and pressing it together into a patty. If it is still too dry to hold together, add a bit of the reserved salmon liquid and test it again after mixing.
- Once you have reached a good consistency, use a large cookie scoop to portion out your salmon patties. Pat them into small, flat rounds and place them on a lined baking sheet or plate.
- Once all of your patties have been formed, spray each side with cooking spray.
- Preheat your Air Fryer for at least 3 minutes to 390F. Follow your manufacturers instructions for this step.
- Once the air fryer is preheated, remove the basket and place on a trivet or hot pad.
- Place the salmon patties into the basket, working in batches if needed.
- Cook for a total of 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Serve immediately with tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.
Video
Nutrition
Please note that some of my blog posts here at Dash for Dinner may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. Please see my Disclaimer for more information.