Air Fryer Salmon Patties, made with canned salmon, are a deliciously quick and easy main dish. Made with simple ingredients, they cook up crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, for a great weeknight dinner. Think outside the box and pop it on a bun or top your salad for some extra protein.
Table of Contents
Easy Air Fryer Fish Recipes
Air fryer fish recipes offer an easy and delicious way to enjoy seafood without the hassle of deep frying. With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, you can create crispy and flavorful fish dishes that are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Whether you prefer salmon, tuna, shrimp, or another type of seafood, you can easily adapt recipes to suit your taste. And air fryers allow you to cook fish quickly and evenly so that every bite is cooked to perfection. Whether you're craving Air Fryer Tuna Patties, Air Fryer Fish Sticks, or Air Fryer Shrimp there's an easy air fryer recipe to satisfy your appetite.
Why You'll Love Air Fried Salmon Patties
Air Fried Salmon Patties, also known as salmon cakes or salmon croquettes, are a delicious dinner entree that offers more than just affordability. Here are some compelling reasons why you'll fall in love with this delectable dish:
Healthier Eating - Unlike traditional deep-frying, air frying requires minimal oil to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior. This means you can enjoy salmon patties with fewer calories and less unhealthy fats. It's a great way to maintain a balanced and health-conscious diet.
Wholesome Ingredients - This easy salmon recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients that not only provide great flavor but also essential nutrients. Salmon is renowned for its omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function. With the addition of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, you're getting a nutritious meal that tastes incredible.
Quick and Easy Preparation - Preparing salmon patties in an air fryer is a breeze. With just a few simple steps and minimal fuss, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Versatility - Salmon patties are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main course, sandwiched between buns, or as a delicious appetizer. And you can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste.
Crispy Texture - Air frying imparts a satisfying crunch to the exterior of the salmon patties while preserving the moistness inside. The result is a mouthwatering contrast in textures that the whole family will enjoy.
Minimal Cleanup - One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is the ease of cleanup. Say goodbye to messy oil splatters and greasy pans. With minimal oil use, you'll spend less time scrubbing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep - Salmon patties are ideal for meal prepping. You can make a batch in advance, refrigerate them, and then air fry them when you're ready to eat. They even taste better after some time in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing - Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, salmon patties are a crowd-pleaser. Their mild flavor profile, combined with the fun factor of patties, makes them a hit with kids and adults alike.
Air Fried Salmon Patties offer a winning combination of healthiness, ease of preparation, and versatility that makes them a standout dish. Beyond being budget-friendly, they provide a delicious and nutritious option for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a meal that checks all the boxes of taste and convenience.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make this recipe for air fryer salmon patties. The exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card below.
- Salmon - you can use canned salmon or fresh salmon for this salmon patty recipe
- Olive oil - you can also use avocado oil
- Butter
- Onion
- Bell pepper - any color is fine
- Celery
- Fresh garlic
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh squeezed lemon juice
- Eggs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Panko breadcrumbs - or substitute keto bread crumbs, gluten free panko, or use none at all
- Old Bay seasoning
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
How to Make Salmon Patties in the Air Fryer
Cooking salmon patties in an air fryer is simple! All you need to do is prepare the patties and then you'll air fry them. Here are the steps and some photos to show you how to air fry salmon patties:
How to make salmon patties:
- Heat butter and oil in a skillet. Add onions, red peppers, and garlic.
- Saute vegetables over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Open and drain each can of salmon. Place in a large bowl and combine salmon with lemon juice.
- Add sauteed vegetables, celery, parsley, and cheese to the salmon.
- Stir well.
- Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper over the salmon patty mixture. Mix.
- Add panko crumbs. You can also substitute gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs as well as keto breadcrumbs.
- Whisk eggs and pour into the seasoned salmon mixture.
- Mix well.
- You should be able to pinch the salmon patty mixture and have it hold together.
Steps to form air fryer salmon cakes:
- Place panko crumbs or breadcrumbs on a plate with parmesan cheese.
- Stir to mix. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes or overnight. Do this step the day before for extra quick meal prep.
- Place a pattie into the crumb mixture and coat both sides. Lightly pat the tops of the patties to help the crumb coating adhere.
- Repeat with the remaining patties.
How to cook salmon patties in an air fryer:
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F. Spray the air fryer basket and lay the salmon cakes in the basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket. You may have to do them in 2 batches. Spray the tops lightly with an oil spray.
- Air fry for 4 minutes, turn them carefully, spray the tops again, then air fryer for another 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Place on a platter on top of greens or arugula. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onion and lemon wedges. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce on the side such as homemade tartar sauce or sour cream. Enjoy!
How long to cook salmon patties in air fryer?
For this recipe, you will cook salmon patties for 8 minutes at 390°F.
Recipe Tips
Creating the perfect crispy salmon patties is easy with a few helpful tips and tricks. These guidelines will ensure your patties turn out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
Preheated Air Fryer - For optimal results, preheat your air fryer before cooking the salmon patties to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Uniformity is Key - Use a scale or measuring cup to portion out the mixture and make sure each patty is the same thickness. This will help all the patties cook at the same rate.
Avoid Overcrowding - Leave space between each patty to allow the hot air to flow around them, ensuring they cook evenly.
Use Cooking Oil Spray - To achieve that irresistible crispy crust, lightly spray the tops of the salmon patties before cooking. This helps browning and adds a delightful crunch to your patties. Give them another quick spray when you flip them over.
Adjust for the size of your Air Fryer - Air fryer models and brands can vary, so it's essential to watch your patties and adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.
Test for Doneness - The best way to ensure your salmon patties are perfectly cooked is by testing them for doneness with an instant-read thermometer. It should reach 145°F (63°C).
Recipe Variations
One of the fantastic things about salmon patties is their versatility. You can customize this easy recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some exciting variations to consider:
- Breadcrumbs: Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs such as plain or Italian-seasoned for varied textures and flavors.
- Flour: Use all-purpose flour instead of panko crumbs to create a classic, slightly thicker crust.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free panko crumbs for a gluten-sensitive or allergy-friendly version that retains a crispy exterior.
- Keto: Keep it keto-friendly with almond flour or crushed pork rinds as low-carb alternatives to breadcrumbs, offering unique flavors and textures.
- Other Binders: Explore alternative binders like crushed cornflakes, potato chips, pretzels, or saltine crackers to introduce different tastes and crunchiness.
- Seasonings: Customize your delicious salmon patties by experimenting with various seasonings. Some of the best things to try are Cajun spice, lemon-dill, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh herbs, or soy and ginger to add unique and delightful flavors.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a salmon patty that suits your palate or diet. Whether you're craving a classic taste or seeking a unique and flavorful experience, these recipe variations offer endless possibilities for your air fried salmon patties. Enjoy experimenting in the kitchen and discovering your favorite flavor combinations!
Make Ahead
Preparing salmon patties ahead of time is a smart way to ensure you have a delicious meal ready whenever hunger strikes. Whether you prefer storing them in the refrigerator for a shorter period or freezing them for longer-term convenience, these make-ahead options have you covered.
Refrigerator: Form the salmon patties and place them in a large air-tight container with wax or parchment paper between the layers. Refrigerate for up to 48 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. When you're ready to savor them, simply air fry as directed, knowing that you're just minutes away from a satisfying meal.
Freezer: For even more flexibility, freeze your salmon patties. After forming them, arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 3-4 hours or until they're frozen solid. Then, transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, placing wax or parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw the patties in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, air fry as directed.
Pro Tip: Since the patties will start out cold from the refrigerator, consider adding an extra minute to the cooking time to ensure they are perfectly heated and crisped to your liking.
How to Serve Salmon Patties
Salmon patties are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:
- With Accompaniments: Enhance the flavors with a selection of accompaniments such as lemon wedges or slices for a zesty kick, and pair them with remoulade sauce, tartar sauce, tzatziki sauce, or aioli for dipping or drizzling.
- As a Main Dish: Serve the salmon patties as the star of your meal alongside a complementary side dish like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
- As a Burger: Create a satisfying salmon patty burger by placing a cooked patty between a soft bun or brioche roll. Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and a dollop of sauce for an indulgent burger experience.
- In a Bowl: Create a wholesome and balanced meal by placing a salmon patty over a bed of fluffy rice and steamed vegetables. Drizzle your preferred sauce over the top for a burst of flavor.
- On a Salad: Elevate your salad game by adding a warm salmon patty on a bed of fresh greens. For a tangy twist, drizzle with remoulade sauce or Thousand Island dressing to tie all the flavors together.
These serving ideas offer a range of delicious ways to enjoy your salmon patties, allowing you to tailor your meal to your preferences and the occasion. Bon appétit!
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Leftovers
To Store: After they've cooled, place the cooked salmon patties in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: For longer-term storage, put the cooled cooked patties in a freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag. Freeze them for up to 3 months, ensuring they stay fresh until you're ready to enjoy them again. Remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To Reheat: Whether from the refrigerator or freezer, reheat your salmon patties for that scrumptious, just-made taste. In the air fryer, heat them at 350°F for about 3 minutes, or in a regular oven at 350°F for approximately 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ensuring your salmon patties stay together is crucial for a successful dish. You can achieve this by using binders such as eggs or breadcrumbs in the mixture. These ingredients help hold the patties together during cooking. Additionally, refrigerating the formed patties for 30-60 minutes or even overnight before cooking can further enhance their structural integrity, making them less likely to fall apart.
No, it's not necessary to remove the bones from canned salmon. The bones in canned salmon are entirely edible and a good source of calcium. However, some people may not enjoy the texture of the bones, so removing them is a matter of personal preference. If you choose to leave the bones in, they will soften during cooking and become virtually unnoticeable in the finished salmon patties.
Absolutely! You can experiment with other seafood options like canned tuna or crab meat to create different variations of fish patties. Adjust the seasonings and ingredients accordingly to match the chosen seafood.
To add some heat to your salmon patties, consider incorporating ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce into the mixture. Adjust the quantity to your desired level of spiciness.
Popular Air Fryer Dinner Recipes
- Air Fryer Chicken Burgers
- Air Fryer Coconut Shrimp
- Air Fryer Kabobs
- Air Fryer Steak Tips
- Air Fryer Turkey Burgers
Find lots of easy air fryer recipes right here on 2CM!
LOVE QUICK & EASY RECIPES? FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, & PINTEREST FOR ALL THE LATEST RECIPE INSPIRATION! PLUS JOIN MY EMAIL LIST AND RECEIVE A FREE E-BOOK.
Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Ingredients
Salmon Cakes
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- ½ cup onion chopped
- ½ red bell pepper chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 18 ounces salmon (3 6-oz cans) drained
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 1-2 stalks celery chopped fine
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- 3 Tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup panko crumbs gluten-free panko crumbs or keto breadcrumbs can be substituted
- 2 large eggs whisked
Crumb Coating
- ½ cup panko crumbs gluten-free panko crumbs or keto breadcrumbs can be substituted
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese grated
- Nonstick spray
Instructions
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add onions, red bell pepper and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes.
- Pour sautéed vegetables into a large bowl. Add celery, parsley, and cheese.
- Open the canned salmon and drain well. Place the drained salmon in the bowl. Sprinkle lemon juice over salmon.
- Sprinkle in Old Bay seasoning, salt and pepper. Stir in panko crumbs.
- Add eggs until you can form the mixture into a nice patty. You can add an extra egg if needed but usually the salmon is moist enough that it’s not needed.
- Form into 6 patties and refrigerate them for 30-60 minutes or even overnight. This will make them easier to handle.
- Remove from refrigerator and coat with a mixture of panko crumbs and parmesan cheese.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
- Coat the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray. Place the patties in the air fryer basket with space between them, making sure not to overcrowd (you may have to air fry in batches). Spray the tops with cooking oil spray.
- Air Fry at 390°F for 4 minutes. Carefully turn the patties over and spray tops with cooking spray. Air fry for 4 minutes more. Remove and garnish with chopped parsley.
Leave a Reply