Canned salmon has been a pantry hero for me ever since I landed in the U.S. Balancing work and family meant I needed meals that were quick, flavorful, and fuss-free. Discovering simple canned salmon recipes transformed how I cook and saved many hectic evenings. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite ways to turn a humble can of salmon into comforting, delicious meals in minutes.
canned salmon recipes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a skillet. Sauté onion and bell pepper until golden and softened (7-9 minutes). Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, combine salmon, sautéed vegetables, bread crumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
- Form mixture into patties. Heat remaining oil and butter in a pan. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
Table of Contents
What You’ll Find in This Comprehensive Guide
This post is the only canned salmon recipes guide you’ll ever need. I’m sharing not just one, but over five tested recipes that bring out the best in canned salmon. Plus, you’ll find a simple buyer’s guide, expert tips for troubleshooting, and clear instructions for cooking methods including pan-frying, baking, and air frying. Whether you’re a beginner or pressed for time, this guide will make cooking with canned salmon easy and enjoyable.
Choosing the Right Canned Salmon: A Quick Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right canned salmon can feel confusing, so here’s a quick breakdown. Pink salmon is milder and more affordable, while Sockeye has a richer flavor and firmer texture but costs a bit more. You’ll also encounter bone-in versus boneless cans; bones in canned salmon are soft and safe to eat, adding calcium and flavor. Additionally, salmon packed in oil delivers a richer taste, whereas water-packed is lighter and more versatile. Knowing these differences helps you pick exactly what suits your recipe and budget.
Star Recipe: Crispy & Flavorful Salmon Patties
These salmon patties are the star of my canned salmon recipes collection—moist and tender inside with a beautifully crispy exterior, packed with bold flavors that will win over your family or guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 14-15 oz canned salmon or salmon in packets (well drained)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 medium yellow onion (1 cup, finely diced)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (seeded and diced)
- 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise*
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic salt (or sub with 1/2 tsp fine sea salt and 1/4 tsp garlic powder, or season to taste)
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup parsley (finely minced)
These ingredients work together to create patties bursting with flavor and a wonderful texture. The Panko breadcrumbs add crunch, while the sautéed onions and red pepper bring mellow sweetness and color.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies: Set a medium skillet over medium heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until golden and softened, about 7-9 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Patty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, sautéed onion and pepper, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, black pepper, and parsley. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly.
- Form the Patties: Scoop out about a heaping tablespoon of mixture for each patty. Shape them with your hands into patties approximately 2 inches wide and 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Cook the Patties: Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil and 1 Tbsp butter in a clean non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the patties in a single layer. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. If they brown too quickly, lower the heat. Transfer cooked patties to a paper-towel-lined plate while you cook the rest.
Versatile Cooking Methods for Your Salmon Patties
These patties are super versatile. Whether you want classic crispy pan-fried, easy baked, or extra crispy air-fried, I’ve got you covered.
1. Pan-Frying (Classic Crispy)
Heat a mixture of olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook patties in batches, ensuring they aren’t crowded—increasing space lets them crisp perfectly. Cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, adjusting the heat if they brown too fast. This method delivers that irresistible golden crust and tender center.
2. Baking (Easier Cleanup)
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place patties on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is perfect when you want a hands-off approach or are cooking for a crowd.
3. Air Frying (Extra Crispy & Quick)
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the patties in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This gives a beautifully crisp exterior with less oil and hassle. For more quick and easy meal options, explore our variety of dinner recipes.
Enhance Your Patties: Simple Dill Aioli
To make your salmon patties even tastier, whisk together a simple Dill Aioli:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp fresh dill (chopped)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Mix all ingredients until smooth and serve alongside your hot patties for a refreshing and zesty boost. Explore more delicious sauce recipes to complement your meals.
Troubleshooting Common Salmon Patty Issues
Patties Are Too Wet or Won’t Hold Their Shape
Add more breadcrumbs gradually until the mixture firms up. Chill the mix for 20-30 minutes before shaping to help it bind better.
Patties Are Too Dry
Avoid overcooking, as this dries out the patties. Ensure you include enough mayonnaise, which keeps them moist and tender.
Patties Fall Apart When Flipping
Chill the formed patties so they firm up. Be gentle when flipping, and use a thin fish spatula if you have one. Also, make sure your pan is adequately heated before cooking.
Patties Are Bland
Don’t skip the sautéed onions and bell pepper—they add flavor and moisture. Season generously with salt, and consider a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for brightness.
More Quick & Easy Canned Salmon Recipes
Quick 5-Minute Salmon Salad
Mix canned salmon with mayonnaise, diced celery, finely chopped red onion, and fresh dill. Serve as a sandwich filling or in wraps for an ultra-fast meal.
Creamy 15-Minute Salmon Pasta
Toss hot cooked pasta with flaked salmon, cream cheese, lemon juice, peas, and fresh dill for a comforting, creamy dinner in a flash.
Easy Salmon Dip Appetizer
Combine flaked salmon, cream cheese, sour cream, chopped chives, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce. Chill and serve with crackers for a crowd-pleasing dip.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Storage: Keep cooked salmon patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead for easy weekday lunches. Pair with a fresh salad, sliced avocado, or steamed veggies.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet first, then transfer to airtight containers or bags. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your cooking time. Cooked patties can be frozen, too—reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain texture.
Dietary Adaptations for Salmon Patties
| Dietary Need | Ingredient to Substitute | Recommended Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Panko Breadcrumbs | Crushed pork rinds, almond flour, or gluten-free panko. |
| Low-Carb/Keto | Panko Breadcrumbs | 1/3 cup almond flour and 2 Tbsp crushed pork rinds. |
| Dairy-Free | Unsalted Butter | Dairy-free butter substitute or additional olive oil. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make salmon patties not taste “fishy”?
Use fresh herbs, sautéed veggies, and plenty of seasoning. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving cuts down on any fishy notes.
Can I make these salmon patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, shape patties, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What can I serve with salmon patties?
Try a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even soft buns for sandwich-style patties.
Do I need to remove the bones from canned salmon?
No need. The small bones in canned canned salmon are soft, edible, and rich in calcium.
Conclusion: Your Pantry Hero Awaits!
Canned salmon is a versatile, budget-friendly ingredient that can be transformed into many delicious meals with ease. Now that you have multiple canned salmon recipes and cooking methods, mealtime just got simpler and tastier. If you make these salmon patties or any of the other quick recipes, please leave a comment and a rating below! I love hearing how they turned out for you. Did you pan-fry them, bake them, or use the air fryer? Let me know!
