Best Salmon Patties Recipe – How to Make Salmon Croquettes
Last Updated on February 14, 2026 by Barbara
My Southern recipe for Salmon croquettes (Salmon patties or Salmon cakes), is one of my comfort food favorites. What I love about salmon patties is that I can eat for any meal. I love it with my grits for breakfast or with warm rice and veggie for a light dinner experience. It is such a versatile meal that makes it perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Salmon Patties are super easy to make with very simple ingredients that you already have in your fridge and pantry. For this recipe I use canned Pink Salmon but if you prefer fresh Salmon it can always be used as well. Go with me as I share with you my easy take on this Southern classic meal that I hope will become one of your favorite recipes too.
Very few things in my kitchen are as versatile as an old fashioned Salmon Croquette. Growing up, these were a household staple. I still love them just as much today, whether they are sitting next to a bowl of buttery grits at breakfast or served with rice and a side of greens for a soulful dinner, they bring that unmistakable sense of comfort to the table.
What makes this recipe a true favorite is how approachable it is. You don’t need a long grocery list; in fact, you probably have everything you need in your pantry and fridge. I typically use canned pink salmon to keep things authentic and easy, but if you have fresh salmon on hand, it works too. Let’s go to the kitchen and I will show you how I make these magical patties.
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How to Make Southern Salmon Croquettes
To make this delicious meal using canned salmon:
- Gather all of your ingredients before starting
- Drain the liquid from the salmon can and remove all the bones from the salmon
- Season the salmon with your choice of seasonings. For this recipe I chose onion powder, garlic powder, salt and black pepper.
- Add the celery, onions, flour and egg. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated
- Form your patties into circles that fit in the palm of your hand
- Heat the oil in the skillet then fry your patties until they are golden brown
1. Watch Me Make Salmon Patties (Video Tutorial)
2. Ingredients in Salmon Croquettes
- Pink Salmon – This is the star ingredient and provides the base for your salmon patties. Canned salmon is convenient but feel free to use fresh salmon when available.
- All-Purpose Flour – The flour helps hold the patty mixture together, giving it structure so it doesn’t crumble when cooked.
- Celery and Onion – These classic aromatic vegetables add flavor complexity as well as a bit of textural interest to the patties.
- Egg – The eggs act as a binder, similar to the flour, ensuring the patties hold their shape. They also add richness and contribute to a moist patty.
- Onion Powder and Garlic Powder – These powders are an easy way to infuse savory garlic and onion notes into the salmon patties. They complement the flavors of the fresh onion and celery as well.
- Black Pepper and Salt – They provide the basic seasoning that enhances all the other flavors.
- Canola Oil – Canola oil is used to fry the patties. It has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking at medium heat.
What You Will Need
3. Instructions for Preparation
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Make sure to carefully remove all the bones from the canned salmon. Once bone free, place the salmon in a large mixing bowl.
Next sprinkle with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. These seasonings will add depth and flavor to your patties.
Incorporate the finely chopped celery and onion. These veggies not only enhance the taste but also contribute a delightful crunch to the patties. Add the all-purpose flour and crack in the egg.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Gently mix the ingredients until well combined. This mixture will serve as the base for your salmon patties.
Step 3: Form the Salmon Patties
 Shape the mixture into patties of your desired size.
Step 4: Cooking the Salmon Patties
Place a skillet over medium-low heat and add a moderate amount of canola oil and heat.Â
Carefully place the formed salmon patties into the skillet. Let them cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side. This duration allows the patties to develop a golden-brown crust.
 After 4 minutes, gently flip the patties. Continue to cook the other side for an additional 4 minutes.
 Once both sides are beautifully cooked and golden, remove the patties from the skillet. Place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
4. What to serve with Salmon Croquettes
Salmon can be served for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They pair well with grits, rice, mashed potatoes, cabbage, asparagus or greens. You can also pair them with a side salad, a zesty remoulade sauce, or enjoy them between buns for a salmon burger experience. Salmon patties are a delicious, inexpensive meal that can be easily made any day of the week.Â
5. Storing Salmon Patties
For leftover salmon patties, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place them in an air fryer. If you don’t have an air fryer they can be reheated on the stovetop.
Salmon Patties freeze wonderfully, both uncooked and cooked. When meal prepping, you can make a large batch and freeze them for a quick meal anytime.
How To Freeze Salmon Patties
- Uncooked:
- Shape the patties.
- Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Cooked:
- Cook the patties as normal.
- Let them cool completely.
- Follow the same process as for uncooked patties; freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag or container.
Thawing and Reheating:
- Thaw: Place the frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat Uncooked: Cook as usual in a pan with oil.
- Reheat Cooked:Â Warm them through in a pan on low heat, bake in the oven until heated through, or you may use an air fryer.
Freezing Tips:
- Separate layers:Â If stacking patties, place parchment or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Label: Label with the date and whether they are cooked or uncooked.
- Shelf life: Frozen salmon patties will keep for 3-4 months for best quality.
Salmon patties are a great weeknight dinner idea. The are easy to prepare and you will have dinner on the table in no time. They are a fantastic way to elevate your dining experience. The combination of flaky salmon, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful seasonings all come together to create a dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying to your soul. I hope you give this recipe a try.Â
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Ingredients
- 1 can pink salmon, drained, bones removed
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Canola oil for frying
Method
- Before starting, carefully check the salmon for any bones and remove them.
- Chop the onion and celery.
- In a large mixing bowl, flake the salmon with a fork.
- Add the onion, celery, flour, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until thoroughly combined.
- Shape the salmon mixture into round patties of your desired size.
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add enough canola oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook for approximately 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the patties from the pan and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Enjoy your salmon patties while they’re hot!
Easy recipe and great taste. My family loves it.
Thank you!