Honestly, finding dinners that are quick, healthy, and something my whole family actually gets excited about can feel like searching for a unicorn some weeks. That’s where these Air Fryer Salmon Patties genuinely saved dinner time more than once. The first time I made them, I was skeptical. Would they be dry? Would the kids turn up their noses? But the magic of the air fryer worked wonders! They came out beautifully golden brown and crisp on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, with a fantastic savory flavor. My partner, who isn’t always the biggest fish fan, asked for seconds, and even my pickiest eater declared them “actually really good!” (High praise indeed!). They’ve become a staple in our rotation because they’re incredibly versatile, packed with goodness, and ridiculously easy to whip up after a busy day. Plus, cleanup is a breeze compared to pan-frying. If you’re looking for a delicious, fuss-free way to get more healthy omega-3s into your diet, you absolutely have to try this recipe.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal plan:

Incredibly Quick & Easy: From pantry to plate in under 30 minutes? Yes, please! Mixing the ingredients takes minutes, and the air fryer does the heavy lifting quickly and efficiently.
Healthier Than Fried: You get that satisfying crispy texture you love from pan-frying, but with significantly less oil, thanks to the air fryer’s circulating hot air. It’s a win-win for flavor and health.
Budget-Friendly: Using canned salmon makes this a very economical way to enjoy fish. It’s readily available, has a long shelf life, and is often much cheaper than fresh fillets.
Packed with Nutrition: Salmon is a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and essential vitamins like D and B12. These patties are a delicious way to boost your nutrient intake.
Amazingly Versatile: Serve them as burgers, on salads, alongside roasted vegetables, or with your favorite dipping sauce. They fit seamlessly into various meal types.
Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of savory salmon, aromatics, and a hint of lemon is generally well-loved, even by those who might be hesitant about fish. The patty format is also often more approachable for kids.
Minimal Cleanup: Forget oil splatters! The air fryer basket typically just needs a quick wash or wipe-down.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to gather to create these delicious patties. Precise measurements ensure the perfect texture and flavor balance.

Canned Salmon: 2 cans (6-7 oz each, approx. 12-14 oz total), preferably wild-caught pink or sockeye salmon, drained very well. Ensure you remove any skin or large bones, although the small, soft bones are edible and provide calcium.
Binder: 1 large Egg, lightly beaten. This is crucial for holding the patties together.
Texture & Filler: 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs. Panko provides a lighter, crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs, but regular fine, dry breadcrumbs can be substituted.
Aromatics:
- 1/4 cup finely minced Yellow Onion (or Shallot for a milder flavor)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
Flavor & Moisture:
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (full-fat recommended for flavor and moisture)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (adds a subtle tang)
- 1 tablespoon fresh Lemon Juice (brightens the flavors)
Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh Parsley or fresh Dill (or a combination). Dried herbs can be used in a pinch (use about 2 teaspoons), but fresh offers superior flavor.
Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
For Air Frying: Olive oil spray or Avocado oil spray. Just a light coating helps with browning and prevents sticking.

Ingredient Deep Dive & Potential Substitutions:

Salmon: While canned is convenient and cost-effective, you can absolutely use leftover cooked fresh salmon! Just flake about 1.5 cups of cooked salmon and proceed with the recipe. Ensure it’s well-drained. If starting with raw fresh salmon, you’d need to cook it first (bake, poach, or pan-sear) before flaking it for the patties. Canned tuna (drained well) can also be substituted for a different flavor profile, creating air fryer tuna patties.
Panko/Breadcrumbs: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs. Crushed rice cakes, almond flour (use slightly less, maybe 1/3 cup, as it’s denser), or even crushed pork rinds (for keto/low-carb) can work as alternatives, though texture may vary.
Egg: If you have an egg allergy, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) can often work as a substitute binder, though the texture might be slightly softer.
Onion/Garlic: Onion powder (1 teaspoon) and garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) can be substituted if you don’t have fresh, but fresh provides better texture and flavor depth. Finely chopped green onions (scallions) are also a great alternative.
Mayonnaise: Light mayonnaise works, but full-fat adds richness. Plain Greek yogurt can be a substitute for a tangier, lower-fat option, though you might need slightly more breadcrumbs if the mixture seems too wet.
Mustard: Stone-ground mustard or even a little horseradish mustard could add a different kick. If you omit it, the flavor will be slightly less complex but still delicious.
Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be substituted. A tiny splash of apple cider vinegar could also add acidity if you’re out of citrus.
Herbs: Chives are another excellent fresh herb option. Feel free to experiment with combinations you enjoy.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Follow these simple steps for crispy, flavorful salmon patties every time.

Prepare the Salmon: Open the cans of salmon and drain them thoroughly. Press out as much liquid as possible – excess moisture is the enemy of crispy patties! Transfer the drained salmon to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces. Carefully pick through and discard any noticeable skin or large bones (the very small, soft bones are fine to leave in).
Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the flaked salmon, add the beaten egg, Panko breadcrumbs, minced onion, minced garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley/dill, salt, and pepper.
Mix Gently: Using a fork or your hands, gently mix all the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon more Panko at a time. If it seems too dry, you could add another teaspoon of mayonnaise.
Chill (Optional but Recommended): For easier handling and patties that hold their shape better, cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 15-30 minutes. This allows the breadcrumbs to hydrate and firms up the mixture.
Form the Patties: Lightly grease your hands with oil or water. Divide the chilled salmon mixture into 4-6 equal portions (depending on desired size). Gently shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick. Press them firmly enough to hold together but don’t compact them excessively. Place the formed patties on a plate or piece of parchment paper.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the patties start cooking immediately and helps create a crispier exterior.
Prepare for Air Frying: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or avocado oil spray. This prevents sticking.
Air Fry the Patties: Carefully place the salmon patties in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding prevents the hot air from circulating properly, leading to soggy patties. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with a little more oil spray.
Cook: Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, carefully flipping the patties halfway through (around the 5-6 minute mark).
Check for Doneness: The salmon patties are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and heated through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) if you’re using a thermometer, though with pre-cooked canned salmon, you’re primarily looking for them to be heated through and nicely browned. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your patties. Add another 1-2 minutes if needed for extra crispiness.
Serve: Carefully remove the salmon patties from the air fryer basket using a spatula. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate)

Servings: This recipe makes 4-6 patties.
Serving Size: 1 large patty or 2 smaller patties.
Calories per serving (assuming 5 patties total, 1 patty per serving): Approximately 220-280 calories.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate only and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used (brand of salmon, type of mayonnaise, exact patty size, etc.), and the amount of oil spray absorbed. Use an online calculator with your exact ingredients for precise figures.

These patties are a good source of:

Protein: Essential for muscle building and satiety.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA): Crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
Vitamin D: Important for bone health and immune function (especially in canned salmon with bones).
Vitamin B12: Vital for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
Selenium: An important antioxidant mineral.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes draining salmon, chopping, mixing)
Chill Time (Optional): 15-30 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (per batch if needed)
Total Time (excluding chilling): Approximately 25-27 minutes
Total Time (including chilling): Approximately 40-55 minutes

This makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and relatively quick.

How to Serve Your Crispy Air Fryer Salmon Patties

These patties are wonderfully versatile! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:

Classic Salmon Burgers:
- Serve on toasted brioche buns or whole wheat buns.
- Top with crisp lettuce (like butter lettuce or romaine).
- Add sliced ripe tomatoes and red onion rings.
- Include pickles (dill or bread-and-butter).
- Slather with your favorite sauce:
  - Tartar Sauce: The classic pairing.
  - Remoulade: A zesty, Cajun-inspired alternative.
  - Lemon-Dill Yogurt Sauce: Mix plain Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  - Spicy Mayo: Mayonnaise mixed with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.
  - Garlic Aioli: Adds a rich, garlicky flavor.
On Top of a Salad:
- Place one or two warm patties over a bed of mixed greens.
- Add complementary salad ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, avocado, feta cheese, or capers.
- Drizzle with a light vinaigrette (lemon-herb, balsamic, or red wine). This makes for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
As a Main Course with Sides:
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
- Pair with fluffy quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
- Serve with a side of creamy coleslaw or a potato salad.
- Air fryer French fries or sweet potato fries make a great companion.
With Dipping Sauces:
- Serve them simply with a selection of dipping sauces for a more appetizer-style approach. Good options include tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy avocado dip.
In a Pita or Wrap:
- Tuck a patty (maybe broken up slightly) into a warm pita bread or tortilla wrap.
- Add shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of tzatziki or hummus.
For Breakfast or Brunch:
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs and some sliced avocado for a protein-packed start to the day.
- Place on top of an English muffin, topped with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a unique take on Eggs Benedict.

Additional Tips for Success

Mastering these air fryer salmon patties is easy, but these extra tips will ensure they’re perfect every single time.

Drain Salmon EXTREMELY Well: This is arguably the most crucial step after choosing good ingredients. Excess moisture leads to soggy patties that might fall apart. Use a fine-mesh sieve and press down firmly on the salmon with the back of a spoon or your hands to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Patting it dry with paper towels afterward isn’t a bad idea either.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Give your patties space! Hot air needs to circulate around each patty to cook it evenly and make it crispy. If you cram them in, they will steam rather than “fry.” Cook in batches if your air fryer is small. It’s worth the extra few minutes for a much better result.
Chill the Mixture Before Forming: While optional, chilling the salmon mixture for at least 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator makes a noticeable difference. It helps the binder (egg and breadcrumbs) fully absorb moisture and solidify the mixture, making the patties much easier to shape and less likely to crumble during cooking.
Uniform Patty Size and Thickness: Try to make your patties roughly the same size and thickness (around 3/4-inch thick is ideal). This ensures they cook evenly. If some are much thicker than others, the thinner ones might overcook while the thicker ones are still heating through.
Gentle Handling is Key: Mix the ingredients gently until just combined, and handle the patties gently when forming and flipping them. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the breadcrumbs (if using regular) and make the egg proteins tough, resulting in dense, rubbery patties instead of tender, flaky ones. Use a thin spatula for flipping to avoid breaking them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making air fryer salmon patties:

Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
- A: Absolutely! You’ll need about 1.5 cups of cooked and flaked fresh salmon. You can bake, poach, grill, or pan-sear a salmon fillet (about 12-14 oz raw) until cooked through, let it cool slightly, then flake it with a fork, removing the skin. Ensure it’s well-drained before mixing with the other ingredients. The flavor profile will be slightly different (often milder) than canned salmon.
Q: How can I make these salmon patties gluten-free?
- A: It’s easy! Simply substitute the Panko breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or gluten-free Panko. Crushed gluten-free crackers or even almond flour (use slightly less, about 1/3 cup) can also work, though they will alter the final texture slightly. Ensure your mayonnaise and Dijon mustard are certified gluten-free if required for strict Celiac needs.
Q: Can I bake these salmon patties in the oven instead of air frying?
- A: Yes, you can bake them. They won’t be quite as crispy as the air-fried version, but still delicious. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You might want to lightly brush or spray the tops with oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and heated through.
Q: Why are my salmon patties falling apart?
- A: This usually happens for a few reasons:
  - Salmon wasn’t drained well enough: Too much moisture prevents proper binding.
  - Not enough binder: The ratio of egg and breadcrumbs might be slightly off, or your egg was small. Try adding an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs if the mixture feels very wet.
  - Overmixing: While you need to combine ingredients, vigorous overmixing can sometimes break down the structure.
  - Not chilled: Chilling helps firm up the mixture significantly.
  - Handled too roughly: Be gentle when forming and especially when flipping.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftover salmon patties?
- A: Store leftover cooked salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain crispiness, the air fryer is your best bet! Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crisped up again. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven. Microwaving is possible but tends to make them soggy. You can also freeze cooked patties (once cooled completely) in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at around 360°F (180°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Air Fryer Salmon Patties Recipe