Deliciously Easy Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe
Last Updated on March 13, 2026 by Carolina
There s something comforting about the idea of gathering around the dinner table with family, sharing stories and savoring a meal made with love. As I scrolled through my recipe collection, the familiar memory of my grandmother s Old Fashioned Salmon Patties came rushing back, their golden crust and delightful crunch perfectly complementing a rich, homemade tartar sauce. Perfectly simple yet packed with flavor, these patties are not just a throwback to a cherished classic; they are also a delicious escape from the mundane fast-food routine that often creeps into our busy lives.
Using just a few pantry staples, including a can of pink salmon, you can whip up this timeless dish in no time. Whether you re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to a gathering, these salmon patties promise to impress both family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves and join me in creating a meal that s not just food, but an invitation to connect and enjoy!
Why are Old Fashioned Salmon Patties a must-try?
Simple ingredients: You ll love how pantry staples transform into a gourmet delight.
Flavorful filling: The combination of salmon, onions, and herbs creates a burst of taste that s simply irresistible.
Quick prep: No complicated steps here just mix and fry for an easy weeknight meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve these to family or guests, and they ll be begging for the recipe!
Perfect pairing: Enjoy with our homemade tartar sauce for an added zesty touch.
Experience the joy of cooking with these nostalgic patties and bring a hearty, homemade meal to your table tonight!
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Ingredients
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these comforting Salmon Patties!
For the Patties
- Canned pink salmon a convenient protein source packed with flavor that forms the base of your patties.
- Large egg binds the ingredients together, adding moisture and richness.
- Onion, finely chopped provides a savory sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour acts as a thickener to hold the patties together without being overwhelming.
- Salt elevates all the flavors, making every bite taste fantastic.
- Baking powder gives a light and airy texture, ensuring your patties aren t too dense.
For the Tartar Sauce
- Mayonnaise creamy and rich, it serves as the base of a delicious homemade tartar sauce.
- Onion, finely chopped adds a zesty crunch that complements the smooth mayo perfectly.
- Pimento stuffed green olives imparts a tangy surprise and a pop of color for visual appeal.
- Finely chopped pickles choose dill or sweet for a delightful kick in your sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped brings a fresh pop of color and flavor to the tartar sauce.
- Capers, rinsed and drained add a briny bite that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Enjoy making these Old Fashioned Salmon Patties with the included tangy tartar sauce it s a meal you ll cherish!
How to Make Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Heat oil: Begin by heating the oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Aim for a temperature between 350 °F and 375 °F, ensuring not to fill the skillet more than halfway with oil for safe frying.
Prepare salmon: Open the can of pink salmon and drain it, reserving 2 tablespoons of the juice in a small bowl. Gently pick out any bones in the salmon to avoid any surprises in your patties.
Whisk egg: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the large egg until frothy. Stir in the salmon, cup of finely chopped onion, ½ cup all-purpose flour, and 1 ½ teaspoons salt, blending everything well together.
Combine flavors: In the bowl with the reserved salmon juice, whisk in 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder. Pour this mixture into your salmon and flour mix, stirring gently until just combined to maintain a good texture.
Shape patties: Carefully shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Remember to pack them firmly but not too tightly to keep them light and airy once fried.
Fry patties: Place the shaped patties into the hot oil, frying them for 2 3 minutes until they re golden brown on the bottom. Flip them over and continue frying until both sides are beautifully golden brown, which should take about another 2 minutes.
Drain excess oil: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy.
Make tartar sauce: In a medium bowl, combine all the tartar sauce ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise, ½ cup chopped onion, 3 pimento stuffed green olives, 1 tablespoon chopped pickles, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, and 1 tablespoon capers. Mix until everything is well integrated.
Serve warm: Present the salmon patties warm with the homemade tartar sauce generously placed on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Room Temperature: Enjoy your salmon patties warm and fresh right after cooking for the best flavor and texture. Avoid leaving them out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet for crispy results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze salmon patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, bake at 350 °F for 10-15 minutes or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through, ensuring they retain their delightful crunch.
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Salmon Patties?
Creating the perfect meal involves finding those delightful partners that enhance your main dish s charm and flavor.
Crispy French Fries: These classic fries offer a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping into tartar sauce!
Refreshing Coleslaw: The creaminess and crunch of coleslaw balance the richness of the salmon patties, adding freshness to each bite.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Soft and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a luxurious contrast to the crispiness of the patties, making for a comforting dish.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings vibrant color and a slight snap, perfectly complementing the savory flavors of the patties.
Garden Salad: A mixed greens salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and a delightful crunch that brightens the entire meal.
Lemon Dill Rice: Savory rice infused with lemon and dill enhances the salmon s flavor while adding a hearty base to the meal.
Savory Cornbread: The sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread pairs well with the patties, providing a delightful contrast in every mouthful.
Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink cleanses the palate beautifully, making every bite of salmon patty taste even better.
Enjoy these pairings for a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are fantastic for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the salmon mixture and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and minimize browning. The tartar sauce can also be made ahead and will stay delicious for up to 3 days in the fridge. When you re ready to serve, simply heat the oil and fry the patties for about 2 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This way, you ll have a delightful meal with all the flavors intact, ready in a matter of minutes!
Expert Tips for Old Fashioned Salmon Patties
Choose Quality Salmon: Use a high-quality canned pink salmon for better flavor, ensuring your old fashioned salmon patties shine.
Don t Overmix: When combining ingredients, avoid overmixing; this helps maintain a light texture in your patties.
Heat the Oil Right: Ensure your oil reaches 350 °F 375 °F before frying. If it s too cool, the patties can become soggy instead of crispy.
Form Even Patties: Shape your patties evenly, about 2 inches in diameter, for consistent cooking and a uniform appearance.
Check for Doneness: Fry until golden brown on both sides, around 2 3 minutes each side, to ensure they are cooked through and delicious.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your old fashioned salmon patties while still warm, paired with your homemade tartar sauce.
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your meal truly your own!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix for a safe, tasty option.
Herb-Infused: Add a teaspoon of dried dill or thyme to the mixture for a burst of botanical flavor that brightens every bite. The earthy tones will transport you to a sunny garden!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture for an extra layer of heat that tests your taste buds without overwhelming.
Vegetable Boost: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or grated zucchini for an ongoing crunch and moisture, making your patties even more vibrant and wholesome.
Lemon Zest: Grate a bit of lemon rind into the mixture for a refreshing citrus zing that balances the richness of the salmon.
Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a gooey inside that melts with each bite, adding an unexpected twist everyone will love.
Baked Option: For a healthier spin, bake your patties at 375 °F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, for a lighter option that still delivers on taste.
Sriracha Tartar Sauce: Mix a tablespoon of Sriracha into your homemade tartar sauce for a creamy dip that pairs deliciously with the patties, elevating your meal to new heights of flavor.
Let your creativity shine and make these old fashioned salmon patties uniquely yours!
Old Fashioned Salmon Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right canned salmon?
Absolutely! When selecting canned salmon, look for options labeled wild-caught for superior flavor and sustainability. Opt for pink salmon, as it s tender and rich, giving your old fashioned salmon patties that delightful taste you re after. Check for any added ingredients; the fewer, the better!
How do I store leftover salmon patties?
You can keep your delicious salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in a skillet over low heat. This old-fashioned method helps to revive their original crispiness just like the first time they were served!
Can I freeze salmon patties?
Very! To freeze your patties, first, let them cool completely. Then wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap. Next, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. They ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as described previously.
What should I do if my salmon patties fall apart while frying?
If your patties are crumbling, it could be due to not enough binding from the egg or the mixture being too wet. Try adding a bit more flour to the mixture to help them hold together. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough (between 350 °F and 375 °F) before frying, which gives them that perfect golden crust and helps them firm up during cooking.
Are old fashioned salmon patties safe for those with allergies?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, always check the labels on your ingredients. Canned salmon is generally safe, but watch out for added ingredients that may contain allergens like gluten, soy, or shellfish. You can also look into allergen-free alternatives for mayo and flour to accommodate various dietary needs. Enjoy without worry!