This easy simple & delicious salmon patties (canned salmon version) recipe is an affordable dinner option that the entire family will love. Keep reading for the crispy, nostalgic comfort meal I grew up on and still make today.
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly meal that’s crispy, flavorful, and comes together quickly — these salmon patties are it.
Salmon patties are one of those dishes that instantly take me back. It’s something my mom made often growing up, and now it’s something I find myself making for my own kids.
Some people might call it a “struggle meal,” but in our house, it’s always been comfort food.
There’s just something about that crispy golden outside paired with the soft, flavorful inside that makes it feel like a complete meal, even with the simplest ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t try too hard, but somehow always hits.
And the best part? It’s made with pantry staples you probably already have on hand, which makes it perfect for those days when you need something quick, satisfying, and reliable.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spatula
- Plate (optional, for coating patties with cornmeal)
Ingredients
Salmon
- 3 cans pink salmon (14.75 oz each), drained and bones removed
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- ¼ onion, chopped
Binding & Texture
- 2 eggs
- ~¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- Dollop of mayonnaise (secret for extra moist patties)
Seasoning
- Complete seasoning (or mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs)
Coating
- Cornmeal (for dredging)
For Frying
- Oil of choice (vegetable or canola works well)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to sauté the vegetables first?
Not necessarily but sautéing the bell pepper and onion brings out their flavor and softens them so they blend better into the patties.
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
You absolutely can, but canned salmon is the highlight of this recipe since it makes it quick and affordable.
What does the mayonnaise do?
It keeps the patties moist and helps bind everything together. You won’t taste it, but you’ll definitely notice the texture.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a slightly lighter texture. Regular breadcrumbs will still work just fine.
What dipping sauce works best?
Ketchup is my go-to (and how I grew up eating them), but you can also try:
- Tartar sauce
- Remoulade
- Spicy mayo
- Lemon aioli
What to Serve with Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are one of those meals that pair well with just about anything, which is part of what makes them so easy to throw together.
Growing up, we kept it simple — usually serving them with something quick on the side — and honestly, that’s still how I like them best.
Here are a few easy sides that go really well with salmon patties:
Simple Side Salad
A light salad with a basic vinaigrette balances out the richness of the patties.
Rice or Buttered Rice
Rice helps make the meal more filling while keeping things simple.
Roasted or Steamed Vegetables
Broccoli, green beans, carrots, or asparagus all pair really well.
Mashed Potatoes
If you want something extra comforting, mashed potatoes are always a good option.
Corn or Corn on the Cob
Corn adds a little sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory patties.
Mac and Cheese
If you’re leaning fully into comfort food, mac and cheese is always a win. It makes the meal feel extra satisfying — especially paired with a crispy salmon patty.
If you need a go-to recipe, I shared my favorite here:
I Tried Tini’s Viral Mac and Cheese Recipe — The Mac & Cheese I Actually Nailed on the First Try
Dipping Sauces
Even though salmon patties are great on their own, a good dipping sauce takes them up a notch:
- Ketchup (my go-to)
- Tartar sauce
- Spicy mayo
- Lemon garlic aioli
Why This Salmon Patty Recipe Works
This recipe keeps things simple while still delivering on flavor and texture.
The sautéed vegetables add depth, the mayonnaise keeps the patties moist, and the cornmeal coating gives that perfect crispy exterior.
It’s quick, affordable, and made with ingredients you likely already have — which is exactly why it’s been a staple in so many homes for generations.
Easy & Delicious Cornmeal Salmon Patties
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped bell pepper and onion until softened and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained salmon. Flake it with a fork and remove any large bones if desired.
- Add the eggs, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, sautéed vegetables, and all seasonings to the salmon. Mix until fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into patties about 3–4 inches wide.
- Lightly coat both sides of each patty in cornmeal for that crispy exterior.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup, remoulade, or a simple aioli.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more panko breadcrumbs.
You can swap panko for crushed crackers if that’s what you have on hand.
Ready to Create this Cornmeal Salmon Patties Recipe?
This is one of those recipes that proves you don’t need anything fancy to make something really good.
It’s nostalgic, comforting, and now something my own kids enjoy just as much as I did growing up — which honestly makes it even more special to me.
Meals like this have a way of sticking with you. They’re simple, familiar, and tied to memories, which is what makes them worth coming back to again and again.
And once you make it, you’ll probably understand why this has always been one of those go-to comfort meals in our home.
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