If you’re craving a delicious dish that combines comforting flavors with a touch of nostalgia, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe. These patties capture the essence of classic home cooking with their perfectly balanced texture and flavor—a crispy golden crust giving way to tender, flavorful salmon inside. Whether you grew up eating these or are discovering them for the first time, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is sure to become a treasured staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe plays a vital role in creating that iconic taste and texture. From the flaky canned salmon to the crunchy saltine crackers, each element is simple but essential, contributing to the overall charm of this comforting dish.
- Pink salmon (1 can): The star protein—drained and ready to provide moist, flavorful bites with soft edible bones adding calcium and texture.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Helps bind the ingredients together for perfectly shaped patties.
- Saltine crackers (10, crushed): Adds crunch and absorbs moisture, keeping patties tender yet firm.
- Yellow mustard (1 teaspoon): A tangy kick that brightens the flavor without overpowering.
- Large egg (1, beaten): Acts as a binder and gives the patties structure and a golden color.
- Buttermilk (1 tablespoon): Adds moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor.
- Finely diced onion (1/4 cup): Introduces a mild sharpness and crunchiness to balance the salad-like texture.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors while seasoning the seafood just right.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and depth to the patties.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For frying to a crispy, golden exterior without overpowering flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Combines with oil to impart richness and promote even browning.
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Base
Start by draining your canned pink salmon well. If you prefer, you can remove the skin and bones—though most are very soft and add to the patties’ nutritional value, so don’t stress about getting every single one out. Place the salmon into a large mixing bowl as the foundation for your patties.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Next, combine the flour, crushed saltine crackers, yellow mustard, beaten egg, buttermilk, finely diced onion, salt, and pepper with the salmon in the bowl. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the mixture comes together. Then, let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the dry ingredients to absorb moisture and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
After resting, scoop close to 1/4 cup of the mixture at a time and gently form each into a patty shape with your hands. You’ll get about eight patties ready to go. For best results, pop the patties into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes—this step helps them firm up so they hold together perfectly during cooking.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat the vegetable oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the patties in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust that’s irresistibly crispy. Drain the cooked patties on paper towels to remove any excess oil, then serve them warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your salmon patties, try garnishing them with a dollop of tangy tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice—both bring brightness that cuts through the richness. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add not just color but a lovely fresh aroma and flavor.
Side Dishes
Salmon patties pair wonderfully with classic sides such as coleslaw, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus make excellent complements, while buttery dinner rolls or cornbread round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Transform these patties into sliders by placing them on mini buns with lettuce and pickles, or crumble them up into a fresh garden salad for a protein-packed lunch twist. You can even serve them atop toasted English muffins with a poached egg for a brunch treat that’s both hearty and sophisticated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a fantastic option for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze these patties for longer storage. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, either warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crisp again or use a toaster oven for convenience. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delicious crust intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned for the Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh salmon can be cooked, cooled, and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. Just keep in mind that canned salmon is already cooked and has a different texture, so you may need to adjust moisture levels slightly.
Is it necessary to remove the skin and bones from the canned salmon?
Not at all. The skin softens when cooked and the small bones are edible and packed with nutrients like calcium. If you prefer texture-free patties, removing them is fine, but it’s not required.
What can I use instead of saltine crackers?
If you don’t have saltines on hand, try crushed breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a similar binding effect and crunch.
Can these salmon patties be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking is a healthier option! Place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown evenly.
How can I make these patties gluten-free?
Swap the flour and saltine crackers for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free crackers. Ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free, too, for a safe and tasty dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about these Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe—they bring together simple ingredients to create a dish bursting with comforting flavor and satisfying texture. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a casual lunch, they’re always a hit. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
Print
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Old Fashioned Salmon Patties made with canned pink salmon, seasoned with mustard and onions, and pan-fried until golden brown. A quick and delicious seafood dish perfect for a comforting meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties
- 1 (14.75-ounce) can pink salmon, drained
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 10 saltine crackers, crushed
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 large egg, well beaten
- 1 tablespoon buttermilk
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Drain the canned salmon well. If preferred, remove the skin and bones, although bones are soft and typically not noticeable in the patties. Place the salmon in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the flour, crushed saltine crackers, yellow mustard, beaten egg, buttermilk, finely diced onion, salt, and black pepper to the salmon. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a consistent mixture. Let the mixture rest for about 5 minutes to allow ingredients to meld.
- Form Patties: Using about 1/4 cup of the mixture for each patty, shape into round patties with your hands. You should be able to make approximately 8 patties. Place the formed patties in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and unsalted butter over medium heat until hot and shimmering, but not smoking.
- Cook the Patties: Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, place the patties in the skillet. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to carefully flip them halfway through the cooking time.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm, as a main dish or appetizer, with your choice of sides or condiments.
Notes
- You can leave the salmon bones in as they are soft and edible, but removing them is optional.
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps them stay together and improves texture.
- For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Serve with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
- Use gluten-free crackers and flour to adapt this recipe for gluten sensitivity.
