These air fryer salmon patties are a quick and delicious way to enjoy a healthy meal. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they make for a great lunch or dinner option. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples. However, if you don't usually keep canned salmon or breadcrumbs on hand, you may need to pick them up at the supermarket. Make sure to get a good quality canned salmon for the best flavor, and choose plain breadcrumbs to control the seasoning.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
Canned salmon: Provides the main protein and flavor for the patties.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
Breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps bind the mixture.
Onion: Adds a bit of crunch and flavor.
Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness to the patties.
Lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the patties.
Technique Tip for Making Salmon Patties
When forming the salmon patties, make sure to press them firmly to ensure they hold together well during cooking. If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice. Conversely, if it's too wet, incorporate a bit more breadcrumbs. This balance will help achieve a perfect texture and prevent the patties from falling apart in the air fryer.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
canned salmon - Substitute with fresh salmon: Fresh salmon can be cooked and flaked to use in place of canned salmon, offering a fresher taste and texture.
beaten egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water to create a vegan alternative that helps bind the patties.
breadcrumbs - Substitute with crushed crackers: Crushed crackers can provide a similar texture and help bind the patties together.
finely chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as onions.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture with added protein and less fat.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a suitable replacement.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as black pepper.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
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How to Store or Freeze Your Salmon Patties
Allow the salmon patties to cool completely at room temperature before storing or freezing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
For storing in the refrigerator:
- Place the cooled salmon patties in an airtight container.
- Layer parchment paper between each patty to prevent them from sticking together.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For freezing:
- Arrange the cooled salmon patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the patties are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.
- Label the bag or container with the date and contents.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating from the refrigerator:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the salmon patties in the air fryer basket.
- Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through.
Reheating from frozen:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the frozen salmon patties in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy.
For best results, avoid microwaving the salmon patties as it can make them rubbery and less appetizing.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain the crispy texture.
Use your air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the patties in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will keep them crispy and delicious.
For a stovetop option, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the salmon patties in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.
If you're in a hurry, the microwave can be used. Place the patties on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may make the patties less crispy.
For a steam reheat, place the salmon patties in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes. This method keeps them moist but may soften the exterior.
Best Tools for Making Salmon Patties in an Air Fryer
Air fryer: Used to cook the salmon patties to a crispy perfection without deep frying.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine all the ingredients together.
Spatula: Helps in mixing the ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of breadcrumbs and mayonnaise.
Measuring spoons: Ensures precise measurement of lemon juice, black pepper, and salt.
Knife: Used to finely chop the onion.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to chop the onion.
Fork: Used to flake the canned salmon.
Plate: Used to shape and hold the patties before placing them in the air fryer.
Tongs: Helps in flipping the patties halfway through cooking.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Use pre-chopped onions: Save time by using pre-chopped onions from the store.
Preheat while mixing: Preheat your air fryer while you mix the ingredients to cut down on waiting time.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the salmon mixture evenly and quickly.
Line the basket: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to make cleanup faster.
Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra patties for a quick meal later.

Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz canned salmon drained and flaked
- 1 egg beaten
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well.
- Shape the mixture into patties.
- Place the patties in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
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