If you love quick, flavorful meals that bring a satisfying crunch with every bite, you are in for a treat with this Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe. Perfectly golden on the outside and tender within, these patties combine pantry staples like canned salmon and crisp breadcrumbs, elevated by bright lemon and savory spices. They come together in less than 30 minutes and cook beautifully in the air fryer, making for a fuss-free dinner or snack that feels special every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making these salmon patties shine. Each item plays its role: tender salmon provides the rich base, while breadcrumbs add that irresistible crunch; fresh veggies contribute subtle texture; and a blend of seasonings brings everything to life with balanced flavor and color.
- 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked: The star ingredient delivering moist, flavorful fish that’s ready to mix.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular): Adds crunch and helps bind the patties; panko gives extra crispiness.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Offers a mild sharpness that complements the salmon perfectly.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a fresh crunch and subtle earthiness.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Keeps the patties moist and adds a creamy richness.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold all ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Provides a slight tang and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh citrus notes.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm, savory undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings color and a mild smoky hint.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
- Olive oil spray for air fryer: Ensures the patties crisp up perfectly without sticking.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing the flaked salmon into a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion and celery, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together well without being too wet or dry.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape each into a round patty about an inch thick. This ensures even cooking and gives your salmon cakes that satisfying bite. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect circles — rustic shapes add homemade charm!
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote that golden crust everyone dreams of.
Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon Patties
Place the patties in a single layer inside the basket, making sure there’s space between each one for the air to circulate. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with olive oil as well. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through to achieve an evenly crisped exterior. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add a lovely pop of color and freshness, making your salmon patties even more inviting. A wedge of lemon on the side lets you add a bright squeeze of citrus right before digging in.
Side Dishes
These patties pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad for a light meal or roasted vegetables for something a bit heartier. You can’t go wrong serving them alongside tangy coleslaw or creamy mashed potatoes either.
Creative Ways to Present
For a classy touch, nestle the salmon patties atop a bed of mixed greens or quinoa. Alternatively, build a casual sandwich by layering them inside a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. The Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe is incredibly versatile and fun to customize!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover patties, pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will keep well for up to three days, making them perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen salmon patties stay fresh for up to two months and are great for meal prep.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen patties in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and crispy again, about 5 minutes. Microwaving is possible but may sacrifice crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Cook and flake fresh salmon before mixing with the other ingredients. The texture is slightly different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can pan-fry these patties in a skillet with a little oil over medium heat. Cook for about 4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
How do I make these patties gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep things safe and tasty.
Can I add herbs or spices?
Definitely! Fresh parsley, dill, or chives can brighten the flavor, while a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika adds a nice kick.
What’s the best dipping sauce for these salmon patties?
Tartar sauce, a lemon garlic aioli, or even a simple yogurt dill sauce complement these salmon patties beautifully and enhance the crisp, savory flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a gentle hug on a plate—comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a quick dinner, these patties deliver big on taste with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to try them and see just how simple it is to create a meal that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with savory goodness.
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a quick, delicious, and healthy way to enjoy salmon. Made with flaked canned salmon, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices, they’re air-fried to golden perfection for a crispy outside and tender inside. Perfect for a light main course or served alongside a salad or dipping sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Salmon Patty Ingredients
- 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray for air fryer
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped celery, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until all components are well incorporated and the mixture holds together.
- Shape Patties: Divide the mixture evenly and form into 6 patties, ensuring they are compact to maintain shape during cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote crispness.
- Air Fry Patties: Place the patties in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with olive oil. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the patties carefully from the air fryer and serve hot. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad for a wholesome meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, panko breadcrumbs are recommended.
- Fresh cooked salmon can be used instead of canned salmon for a different texture.
- Add chopped parsley or dill to the mixture for enhanced flavor.
