Crispy & Flavorful Air Fryer Salmon Patties: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
Transform your dinner routine with these incredibly delicious and effortlessly prepared Air Fryer Salmon Patties! This recipe offers a perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender, succulent interior, all achieved with minimal oil and maximum flavor. Say goodbye to greasy stovetop frying and embrace the convenience and health benefits of your air fryer. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these salmon cakes are a simple yet elegant solution for a quick lunch, a delightful appetizer, or a wholesome family dinner.
Why Choose Air Fryer Salmon Patties? The Ultimate Guide to a Healthy & Quick Meal
For anyone who appreciates a delightful meal without the fuss, the air fryer is a game-changer. It’s truly one of the most innovative kitchen appliances to emerge, capable of creating a wide array of dishes from savory to sweet. Among its many marvels, these Air Fryer Salmon Patties stand out as a testament to its efficiency. While there’s a certain nostalgia to traditional pan-fried salmon patties, the air fryer offers a superior alternative – achieving that coveted golden-brown crispness without the excessive oil and messy cleanup. Each patty emerges beautifully golden and crunchy on the outside, while retaining a moist and flaky texture within. Pair them with your favorite tangy dipping sauce or serve them as the star of a vibrant meal, and you’re all set for an unforgettable culinary experience.
This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and smart cooking. It leverages the air fryer’s unique ability to circulate hot air, replicating the results of deep-frying but with significantly less fat. This makes our salmon patties a healthier option, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients, without compromising on taste or texture. Prepare to impress your family and friends with these delectable salmon cakes, especially as a light and satisfying meal or appetizer during the warmer months.
Best salmon cakes I’ve ever eaten! These are moist, tasty, take a fraction of the time, and only one bowl to prepare. Thank you!
– Sandy
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Here are some common questions we often receive about making these delicious salmon patties, along with detailed answers to help you perfect your recipe.
For these Air Fryer Salmon Patties, I highly recommend using canned pink salmon. It’s readily available, cost-effective, and has a mild flavor and flaky texture that works wonderfully in patties. However, if you prefer, you can certainly use fresh cooked salmon or even smoked salmon, just ensure it’s flaked and any large bones or skin are removed. When working with canned salmon, remember to drain it thoroughly and take a moment to meticulously remove any small bones or pieces of skin. While some people don’t mind them (and the bones are edible and nutritious if crushed), removing them ensures a smoother, more palatable texture for your patties, which is a common preference.
Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While our recommended blend of dried dill, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper creates a classic and beloved flavor profile, feel free to unleash your culinary creativity. Consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note, a dash of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or even some Old Bay seasoning for a distinct seafood flavor. Fresh herbs like chives or finely chopped cilantro can also elevate the taste. Adjust the seasonings to match your personal preference or what you have on hand – don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Yes, absolutely! While I personally favor panko breadcrumbs for this recipe due to their coarser texture, which contributes to an extra crispy exterior, regular breadcrumbs will also work perfectly well. Panko provides a lighter, airier crunch, but traditional breadcrumbs will still bind the patties effectively and give them a satisfying crispness. If you use regular breadcrumbs, you might notice a slightly denser texture, but the flavor will remain just as delicious. Feel free to use whichever type you have in your pantry.
Yes, spraying your air fryer basket is a crucial step to prevent the salmon patties from sticking. For the best results, use an olive oil cooking spray. It creates a thin, even layer that prevents adhesion and aids in achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust. It’s important to specifically avoid aerosol vegetable oil sprays (like Pam) that often contain propellants or anti-foaming agents. These can leave a sticky, gummy residue on your air fryer basket over time, which can be difficult to clean and might even damage the non-stick coating. Opt for a pump-style olive oil sprayer or brush a small amount of olive oil directly onto the basket for optimal care and cooking performance.
It’s a common characteristic of canned salmon to include small pieces of skin and bones. This is primarily because these components are perfectly safe to eat and are actually a fantastic source of calcium and other nutrients. The canning process softens the bones to the point where they are easily crushed and typically go unnoticed when mashed into patties. Some individuals prefer to keep them in for the added nutritional boost. However, if you’re like me and have a sensitivity to texture, you might prefer to remove them. Even when thoroughly mashed, I sometimes detect the slight grittiness, which is why I take the extra step to pick them out. It’s entirely a matter of personal preference and won’t significantly impact the overall flavor of your salmon patties.
Leftover Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a fantastic treat the next day! To store them, place the cooled patties in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. They also freeze beautifully, making them excellent for meal prepping. For freezing, arrange the cooked and cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze them for about an hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Reheat thawed patties in your air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or in an oven at the same temperature until heated through and crispy again. This method ensures they retain their delightful texture.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Patties
Crafting these delectable salmon patties requires a few simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a burst of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Canned Pink Salmon: The star of our show, providing a tender base and rich flavor.
- Large Egg: Acts as a crucial binder, holding the patties together.
- Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a touch of creaminess, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Our secret weapon for that irresistible crispy coating.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A splash of citrus brightens the entire dish and complements the salmon beautifully.
- Dried Dill: A classic pairing with salmon, offering an aromatic, slightly sweet, and tangy note.
- Onion Powder: Provides a subtle, savory onion flavor without the texture of fresh onion.
- Garlic Powder: A foundational savory seasoning that enhances overall depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste and balancing the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional): Adds a vibrant color and fresh, herbaceous finish.
Beyond these core ingredients, you’ll also want to have olive oil cooking spray for the air fryer and optional lemon wedges and tartar sauce for serving. This thoughtful combination ensures each bite is packed with flavor and satisfying texture.
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Patties: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these delicious salmon patties in your air fryer is incredibly simple. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
Step 1: Prepare Your Air Fryer and Gather Ingredients
Before you begin mixing, ensure your air fryer is ready for action. Lightly spray the air fryer tray or basket with olive oil cooking spray. This crucial step prevents sticking and helps achieve that desirable crispy crust. Then, gather all your ingredients and add them into a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Once all ingredients are in the bowl, use a fork or your hands to gently mix them together. Be careful not to overmix; simply combine until everything is just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tougher patties. Ensure the salmon is flaked, and all the binders and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Form the Patties and Prepare for Air Frying
Divide the salmon mixture into four equal portions. Gently form each portion into a flat, round patty, about 1-inch thick. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Carefully place the formed salmon patties into the prepared air fryer tray or basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Work in batches if necessary, allowing enough space for air to circulate around each patty. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray as well; this helps them achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and extra crispiness.
Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Cook the salmon patties on the air fry setting at 390°F (199°C) for 10-12 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your patties. Look for them to be fully cooked through, with a beautiful golden-brown and crispy exterior. There’s no need to preheat your air fryer for this recipe, saving you even more time! Once cooked, carefully remove the patties from the air fryer.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your freshly cooked Air Fryer Salmon Patties immediately while they are warm and at their crispiest. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, and a dollop of classic tartar sauce is the perfect accompaniment. These patties are also excellent with a side of remoulade, a fresh dill sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. Enjoy them as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even as a flavorful appetizer for your next gathering!
Tips for Success with Your Air Fryer Salmon Patties
- Don’t Overmix: Gentle mixing is key to tender patties. Overmixing can develop the protein in the salmon, making the patties tough.
- Even Thickness: Form your patties to a uniform thickness (about 1 inch) to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up at the same rate.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air circulation is vital for air frying. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming the patties instead of frying them.
- Use Olive Oil Spray: As mentioned, olive oil spray works best for preventing sticking and promoting browning without leaving residue.
- Adjust Cook Time: Air fryers vary. Keep an eye on your patties, especially during the first batch, and adjust cooking time as needed until they are golden and cooked through.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before forming patties, you can taste a tiny bit of the mixture (if using cooked salmon) and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
- Serve Immediately: For the best crispness, serve the patties fresh out of the air fryer.
Want More Delicious Air Fryer & Salmon Recipes?
- Classic Pan-Fried Salmon Patties
- Elegant Smoked Salmon Puff Pastry Bites
- Delicious Chicken Patties (Chicken Croquettes)
- How to Make Perfect Smoked Salmon
- Flavorful Smoked Salmon Pinwheels
- Juicy Air Fryer Steak
- Quick Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Easy Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Tender Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites
- Versatile Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- Flavorful Air Fryer Pork Chop Bites
- Fall-Off-The-Bone Air Fryer Ribs
Air Fryer Salmon Patties (+Video)
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10 minutes
12 minutes
22 minutes
4
Brandie Skibinski
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Ingredients
- 14.75 ounce canned salmon
- 1 large egg
- 3 Tablespoons mayonnaise
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon dried dill
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- lemon wedges and tartar sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Spray the air fryer basket or tray with olive oil nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and aid in crisping.
- In a large bowl, combine the 14.75 ounce canned salmon (drained and picked clean of bones/skin), 1 large egg, 3 Tablespoons mayonnaise, ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon dried dill, ¼ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper, and if using, 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined and evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing.
- Divide the salmon mixture into four equal portions. Form each portion into a sturdy, round patty, about 1-inch thick.
- Carefully place the formed salmon patties into the prepared air fryer basket or tray. If cooking in batches, ensure there is ample space between each patty for optimal air circulation. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray as well.
- Cook on the air fry setting at 390°F (199°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the patties are fully cooked through, golden brown, and delightfully crispy. No preheating is necessary for this recipe.
- Serve your hot and crispy salmon patties immediately with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, or your preferred dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Video
Notes
- For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using canned pink salmon.
- Carefully pick out any small bones and fish skin from the canned salmon before mashing and mixing.
- Always use olive oil nonstick spray or a direct olive oil application for your air fryer basket to preserve its coating and prevent sticking. Avoid aerosol vegetable oil sprays.
- These delicious patties are freezer-friendly! Refer to the FAQ section above for detailed freezing and reheating instructions.
- While panko breadcrumbs offer superior crispness, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a suitable alternative.
- Feel free to serve these versatile salmon patties with your favorite dipping sauce – tartar sauce is a classic, but get creative!
Appetizer, Side Dish, Main Course
American
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.