It’s the end of the work day, the family is hungry, and there’s absolutely nothing in the refrigerator. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, you should bookmark this recipe for air-fryer salmon patties. Like all of our favorite air-fryer recipes, these patties cook up quicker than they would on the stovetop, using a fraction of the oil.
Working with already-cooked canned salmon makes these patties extra quick to stir together, but this recipe is also a great way to use up leftovers from any of our easy salmon recipes. The result is mildly spiced patties that are golden brown on the outside, tender inside, and endlessly adaptable.
Ingredients for Air-Fryer Salmon Patties
- Canned salmon: Canned salmon is a great pantry staple. Often made with pink salmon, one of the major types of salmon, it has a ton of nutritional value and can be used in a variety of ways. If you want the extra nutrition, keep the skin and bones in!
- Onion: Chopped onion adds a lot of flavor to these salmon patties. If you’re onion-averse, simply omit it.
- Egg: Egg binds the patties so they hold their shape and stay moist during cooking.
- Saltines: Crushed crackers bind the fish cakes together. You can also use panko or another substitute for bread crumbs instead. Gluten-free bread crumbs make this an easy gluten-free dinner recipe.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the patties
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. In a large bowl, combine the onion, beaten egg, crushed saltines, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is an even consistency. Crumble the salmon over the egg mixture and stir lightly but thoroughly. Shape into six patties.
Editor’s tip: Round patties are easiest, but you can make them square if you want. Just make sure they are roughly equal in shape and size to ensure even cooking. You can even use an ice cream scoop or small measuring cup to make sure they’re the same volume.
Step 2: Fry the patties
Arrange the patties on a greased tray or air-fryer liner in the basket. Spritz them with cooking spray, which will help them brown during cooking. Cook until the patties are set and golden brown, six to eight minutes.
Recipe Variations
- Add chopped veggies: Finely chopped red or green peppers, frozen corn, diced mushrooms and many other vegetables will add flavor and crunch to the patties. The trick? Cut the veggies into small, even pieces, and don’t use vegetables that are too firm because they won’t cook in time.
- Add seasonings: Steer these salmon patties in any flavor direction you like! Add dill and capers for Nordic-inspired flavor or go with a splash of soy sauce and a drizzle of Sriracha for Asian-inspired patties. Or, sprinkle your favorite curry powder for an Indian-flavored dinner that tastes great with a dollop of yogurt.
- Use fresh salmon: Canned salmon is an economical way to make a meal quickly, but you can also use fresh cooked salmon. Simply replace the canned fish with gently shredded cooked salmon.
- Make the salmon patties on the stove: Don’t want to air-fry? You can make speedy salmon patties in a skillet.
How to Store Air-Fryer Salmon Patties
Leftover air-fryer salmon patties should be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They’ll taste best the next day, but will keep for up to three days. Gently reheat in a low oven or skillet to re-crisp the exterior. Or, eat them cold on top of a salad for lunch or dinner.
Can you freeze air-fryer salmon patties?
Yes, salmon patties freeze well, either cooked or uncooked. If cooked, allow the patties to cool completely before freezing. Frozen salmon patties are good for up to three months in the freezer.
- How to freeze cooked salmon patties: Place the patties in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Put the baking sheet in the freezer until the patties are frozen solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. Salmon patties will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- How to freeze uncooked salmon patties: To freeze uncooked patties, make the patties through Step 1. Once shaped, freeze the patties in the same way you would the cooked patties. Once solid, wrap them tightly, either individually or stacked with parchment paper between each one. No need to defrost before cooking in the air fryer, but you will need to add more time since you’re cooking them from frozen.
Air-Fryer Salmon Patty Tips
How can you tell when air-fryer salmon patties are done?
Air-fryer salmon patties are done cooking when they turn golden in color. They should be crispy and firm enough to hold their shape when lightly pressed. Since this recipe calls for already cooked canned salmon, there’s no worry about raw fish, but the eggs need to cook through. Eggs are done cooking at 160°.
Note that air fryers vary in temperature, so cook times vary between models. Begin checking for doneness at the earliest time given in the recipe, and then keep a close watch so the patties don’t burn.
What do you serve with air-fryer salmon patties?
Salmon patties are a family-friendly dinner that even the kids will enjoy. For a wholesome light dinner, serve the patties on a bed of spring greens, spinach or arugula, with lemon slices on the side. Salmon patties also taste great beside mashed or boiled potatoes and a simple vegetable, such as steamed broccoli or green beans. While you can dip salmon patties in mayonnaise, mustard or ketchup, they taste especially good with a special sauce, such as remoulade, garlic aioli or creamy dill dip.
