Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

If you’ve ever wanted to recreate a comforting, nostalgic dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties. These crispy, savory patties blend flaky salmon with simple pantry ingredients, resulting in a versatile meal that’s both easy and satisfying. Whether you’re gearing up for a quick lunch or a family dinner, this recipe offers that perfect balance of texture and taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Timeless Comfort: Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties deliver a homemade taste that feels like a warm hug from childhood.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s an approachable recipe that doesn’t require complicated prep.
• Crispy on the Outside, Tender Inside: The perfect combination of a golden crust and moist salmon center makes every bite delightful.
• Versatility: Works great as a main dish, sandwich filling, or even a party appetizer.
• Protein-Packed: Salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3s, making it a tasty yet nutritious choice for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that each play a key role in bringing out the authentic taste and texture of Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties. Every component is essential to achieving that perfect crispy crust and rich salmon flavor.

• Canned Salmon: Choose wild-caught for the best flavor and flakes perfectly in patties.
• Eggs: Act as a natural binder, holding the patties together without overpowering flavor.
• Bread Crumbs: Adds crunch and stability, helping the patties keep their shape.
• Onion: Finely chopped for a subtle zing and a hint of sweetness.
• Mayonnaise: Provides moisture and richness, making patties tender inside.
• Dijon Mustard: Injects a mild tang to balance the richness.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds deep umami notes that enhance salmon’s natural flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every bite.
• Cooking Oil: For pan-frying and getting that irresistible golden crust.

Variations for Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

One of the joys of Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties is how easy they are to tweak based on your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor preferences. Feel free to experiment to find your personal favorite twist on this old-fashioned classic.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of traditional bread crumbs.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh dill, parsley, or chives for a bright, fresh finish.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for some heat.
• Healthier Swap: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture and tang.
• Cheesy Delight: Incorporate shredded cheddar or parmesan in the mixture for extra richness.

How to Make Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and transfer it to a mixing bowl. Remove any large bones if desired, then flake the salmon gently with a fork to keep it tender and not mushy. Add finely chopped onion, eggs, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything just until combined—overmixing can make the patties dense.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the salmon mixture into equal portions, about the size of a small fist or a bit larger, depending on your preference. Gently form each portion into a round, flat patty about ¾-inch thick. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more bread crumbs to help hold the shape.

Step 3: Preheat and Fry

Heat a few tablespoons of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, leaving some space between each. Fry for approximately 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite sides or condiments.

Pro Tips for Making Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

• Don’t Overmix: Combining the ingredients gently keeps the patties fluffy and light instead of dense.
• Opt for Wild-Caught Salmon: It offers better flavor and texture compared to farm-raised varieties.
• Use Medium Heat: Cooking too hot risks burning the crust before the center cooks through.
• Rest Before Frying: Refrigerate the formed patties for 15-20 minutes to help them hold together when frying.
• Customize Your Crust: For added crunch, coat patties lightly in breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before frying.

How to Serve Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

Garnishes

Fresh lemon wedges, a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli complement the flavors and add brightness to the dish.

Side Dishes

Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties pair beautifully with coleslaw, potato salad, steamed green beans, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these patties as sliders inside soft buns with pickles and lettuce for a fun twist, or crumble them over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad topping with a vinaigrette drizzle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled salmon patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store them separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked patties by lining them on a baking sheet and placing them in the freezer for 1-2 hours, then transfer to freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding extra time while frying.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, or use an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh salmon can be cooked, flaked, and used similarly, but canned salmon is preferred for convenience and consistent texture.

Are these salmon patties gluten-free?

Not by default, since breadcrumbs typically contain gluten; however, substituting with gluten-free breadcrumbs will make the patties gluten-free.

How can I make these patties less oily?

Try pan-frying in a non-stick skillet with just a small amount of oil or baking them in the oven for a lighter approach.

Can I bake salmon patties instead of frying?

Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, offers a healthier alternative with good crispness.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

Reheat them gently and enjoy with a fresh side salad or melt cheese on top for a quick salmon patty melt sandwich.

Final Thoughts

Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are an unbeatable combination of simplicity, taste, and nostalgia that fits perfectly into any meal plan. Easy to make, highly adaptable, and absolutely delicious, they’ll soon become one of your go-to recipes to share with friends and family. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—these patties are ready to bring a little comfort and joy to your kitchen.

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