Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe – A Classic Comfort Food Dish

If you're looking for a timeless meal that’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and wonderfully nostalgic, this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe is exactly what you need. Whether you grew up with your grandma frying up salmon cakes on a cast-iron skillet or you're just discovering this humble dish for the first time, these crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside patties will quickly become a favorite in your household.

At Using Recipes, our mission is to keep beloved traditional meals alive while helping you elevate your everyday cooking. We offer both free and premium content, including detailed recipes, cooking tips, and budget-friendly meal plans to simplify your time in the kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the full old-fashioned salmon patties recipe, offer variations, share cooking tips, and even suggest the perfect sides to serve. Let’s get started!

 What Are Old Fashioned Salmon Patties?

Old fashioned salmon patties—also known as salmon cakes or salmon croquettes—are a Southern-inspired comfort food made primarily from canned or cooked salmon, breadcrumbs or crackers, eggs, and seasonings. They're pan-fried until golden brown and served hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.

These patties are known for their crispy exterior, flaky interior, and savory flavor. Budget-friendly and easy to prepare, they’ve been a staple in American kitchens for generations.

 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a basic ingredient list for making classic old fashioned salmon patties:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 can (14.75 oz) pink salmon, drained (bones and skin removed if desired)

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup finely chopped onion

• ½ cup crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for a zesty flavor)

• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter for frying

 How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, add the drained salmon. Flake it apart with a fork. If you're using canned salmon with bones, they are soft and edible—but feel free to remove them if preferred.

Add the egg, chopped onion, crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs), milk, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not too wet—adjust with more crackers if it feels too loose.

2. Form the Patties

Shape the mixture into 6–8 equal-sized patties, about ½ inch thick. If the mixture doesn’t hold its shape, refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up before frying.

3. Fry the Patties

Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently place the patties in the skillet. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Avoid overcrowding the pan—fry in batches if necessary. Drain the patties on paper towels after cooking.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with a side of tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite dip. These also pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad.

 Cooking Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties

• Use canned pink or sockeye salmon: Both work great, though sockeye has a richer flavor.

• Don’t skip the binder: The egg and crackers/breadcrumbs help the patties hold together.

• Want extra crunch? Dredge the patties in a light coating of breadcrumbs before frying.

• Add your own twist: Include chopped bell peppers, green onions, or a pinch of cayenne for spice.

 Flavor Variations to Try

1. Southern Style – Add chopped green pepper, celery, and a pinch of Old Bay seasoning.

2. Cheesy Patties – Mix in ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a richer taste.

3. Spicy Kick – Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the mixture.

4. Low-Carb Version – Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of crackers.

 What to Serve with Salmon Patties

Old fashioned salmon patties are versatile and go well with a variety of sides. Here are a few favorites:

• Mashed potatoes and gravy

• Southern-style collard greens

• Coleslaw or potato salad

• Cornbread

• Steamed green beans or roasted veggies

• Rice pilaf or quinoa

 Why People Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly – Using canned salmon keeps costs low.

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.

• Great for Leftovers – Tastes just as good the next day.

• Kid-Friendly – A great way to get children to eat more fish.

• Freezer-Friendly – You can freeze uncooked patties for later use.

 FAQs About Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cook and flake fresh salmon before adding it to the mixture.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet. Add more crackers or breadcrumbs if necessary and be gentle when flipping during frying.

Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Are these patties gluten-free?
They can be—just use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed GF crackers.

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 Storage and Leftover Tips

To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Warm them in a skillet over low heat or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

To freeze: Lay uncooked patties on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

 Final Thoughts

This Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe is a throwback to simpler times—hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, these golden salmon cakes never go out of style.