Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
If you’re craving something seriously delicious, quick to make, and packed with protein, you absolutely have to try Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties. These golden beauties bring together flaky salmon, crunchy panko, and zesty fresh ingredients for a main dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite cozy seafood shack, yet you can whip them up right in your kitchen with almost no mess. Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a weeknight dinner hero that even picky eaters can get behind, and the best part? They cook up irresistibly crisp without a drop of deep frying!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties lies in their simple ingredient list—each component plays a key role in creating patties that are tender inside, yet perfectly crunchy on the outside. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Pink salmon (2 cans, 14.75 oz each): Packed with omega-3s, this is your shortcut to big flavors, minus the fuss of cooking fresh fish from scratch.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): These Japanese-style crumbs guarantee an extra crispy bite every single time.
- Large eggs (2): The eggs help bind everything together so your patties don’t fall apart—essential for a flawless flip!
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Adds just enough moisture, richness, and a tangy note that balances the salmon.
- Green onions (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): A pop of fresh color and mild oniony zing with every bite.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): This gives your patties depth and a gentle kick without overpowering the salmon.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Brightens up the whole dish, making every mouthful taste light and fresh.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): A pinch of savory flavor that rounds everything out.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances and unifies all the other flavors in the mix.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A subtle background warmth that pairs perfectly with salmon.
- Cooking spray or olive oil: For greasing the air fryer basket and brushing the patties for that signature golden crunch.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding your flaked pink salmon, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or your hands to gently combine everything until just mixed—you want the mixture moist but not runny, and packed together enough to hold its shape.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
With clean hands, scoop out the mixture and divide it into eight equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about ½ inch thick. Take care not to compress them too tightly, as a lighter touch creates a fluffier, tender middle while still holding together beautifully when cooked.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush on a swift layer of olive oil. This small step ensures your Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties won’t stick—and it helps develop that highly sought-after crispy crust!
Step 4: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Gently arrange the patties in a single layer in your air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd them (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides are deeply golden and irresistibly crisp. For even more crunch, you can brush the tops with a little oil before cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Once done, pull your Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties from the basket. Serve them warm, garnished with lemon wedges or your favorite sauce, then take a moment to admire your handiwork before digging in—trust me, they’re as good as they look!
How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Garnishes
Garnishing takes these already-sensational patties over the top. Try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkling of extra green onions, or a dollop of classic tartar sauce for brightness, color, and flavor contrast. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley also add a restaurant-worthy touch.
Side Dishes
Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties practically beg to be paired with light, fresh sides. Think a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or coleslaw for crunch. Serve over fluffy rice or alongside buttery boiled potatoes for a more substantial meal that makes everyone at the table smile.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, tuck a salmon patty inside a soft bun with lettuce and pickles for a mouthwatering fish burger, or chop them over mixed greens for a hearty salad. They’re also fabulous as mini sliders for parties or piled right onto a grain bowl for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasting fresh for up to three days and are perfect for packed lunches or speedy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
These patties freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just be sure to label the bag with the date. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To recapture that golden, crispy exterior, pop chilled or thawed patties back in the air fryer at 375°F for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also use the oven, but the air fryer really does the best job of restoring their irresistible crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Simply cook and flake fresh salmon, then use an equal amount by weight. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh salmon can be more moist.
What’s the secret to Extra Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties?
For the crispiest patties, make sure your air fryer is fully preheated, avoid overcrowding the basket, and don’t skip brushing or spraying the patties with a little oil before cooking!
Are these patties gluten-free?
They easily can be! Just swap the standard panko for your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs; all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy.
Can I make the patties in advance?
Yes! You can shape the patties up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to cook. You can also freeze unbaked patties for longer storage.
What sauces go best with Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties?
Tartar sauce and lemon wedges are the classics, but creamy dill sauce, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a homemade remoulade make delicious, crowd-pleasing options.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a weeknight lifesaver that never fail to impress with their big flavor, crunch, and comfort—plus, they’re so fun and easy to make. Give them a try soon and see why they’ve become a go-to favorite in my kitchen—they’re sure to become a staple in yours, too!
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Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 8 patties 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and healthy seafood dinner. With a golden, crispy exterior and moist, flavorful interior, these salmon patties are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Salmon Patties:
- 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) pink salmon (drained and flaked)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- cooking spray or olive oil for air fryer
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape Patties: Shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
- Air Fry: Place patties in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve warm with tartar sauce or lemon wedges.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, brush patties lightly with oil before air frying.
- You can substitute fresh salmon if preferred, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
