Crispy Salmon Potato Patties

Name: Crispy Salmon Potato Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 patties
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 egg, beaten; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs; Oil, for frying

Highlighted under: Hurry Up Food | Fast Plates

I absolutely love creating dishes that combine simple ingredients into something truly special, and these Crispy Salmon Potato Patties are a perfect example. The combination of tender salmon and fluffy potatoes, seasoned to perfection, results in delightful bites that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. We often enjoy these as a light lunch or a savory snack, and they always disappear quickly. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon elevates the flavors even more!

Created by

The Ximenabakes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T17:42:28.101Z

When I first set out to make Crispy Salmon Potato Patties, I wasn’t sure how they would turn out, but I was thrilled with the results. The recipe is straightforward, but I quickly learned that mashing the potatoes just right is key to achieving that perfect consistency. Too chunky, and the patties fall apart; too smooth, and they lose their texture.

Experimenting with different seasonings made a big difference as well. I found that adding fresh dill and a hint of lemon zest not only enhances the flavor but also gives each bite a refreshing kick. These patties have become a favored dish in my home!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Crispiness that contrasts beautifully with tender salmon and potatoes
Versatile for any meal, whether as an appetizer or a light maincourse
Easily customizable with herbs and spices for added excitement

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in these crispy salmon potato patties plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The mashed potatoes provide a fluffy base that softens the dish, while the salmon contributes a rich, savory taste. The combination of onion and parsley not only adds freshness but also balances the richness of the salmon. For those wishing to enhance flavors further, consider adding your favorite herbs like dill or thyme, which pair beautifully with salmon.

Egg acts as a binder in this recipe, helping to hold the patties together without making them dense. This is crucial for achieving the ideal crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender. Be careful not to overmix the ingredients; you want to maintain some texture from the salmon and potatoes rather than creating a uniform paste.

Cooking Techniques

When it comes to frying, the temperature of your oil is essential. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If the oil is too hot, the patties will brown too quickly on the outside and remain uncooked in the middle. Conversely, if the oil is too cool, the patties will absorb excessive oil, leading to a greasy texture. A good visual cue is to drop a breadcrumb into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden in about 30 seconds.

Frying the patties in batches rather than overcrowding the skillet will ensure they cook evenly. I recommend leaving enough space between each patty to allow for proper browning. After frying, place the patties on paper towels to soak up excess oil, which helps maintain their crispiness when served.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Crispy Salmon Potato Patties

Ingredients

2 cups mashed potatoes
1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 egg, beaten
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs
Oil, for frying

Gather all the ingredients before you start, as it makes the process smoother.

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Prepare the Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flaked salmon, onion, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Patties

Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties about 2 inches in diameter. Coat each patty in breadcrumbs for an extra crunch.

Pan-Fry the Patties

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve with sour cream or your favorite sauce and enjoy!

These patties can also be frozen for later use, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some spices like paprika or cayenne pepper into the patty mixture. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the skillet while frying to ensure that each patty cooks evenly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These salmon potato patties can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for meal prep. Once shaped and breaded, you can refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours before frying. For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. To cook from frozen, simply fry them without thawing, increasing the cooking time by a few minutes per side.

If you have leftover patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry them in a little oil over medium heat until heated through and crispy again, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to customize these patties to suit your taste preferences. You can swap out the salmon for canned tuna or even cooked shredded chicken if you like. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or sriracha to the mixture. Alternatively, mixing in some shredded cheese can add a creamy texture that pairs well with the salmon.

Serving suggestions abound with these patties. They are delightful as a light lunch or appetizer, especially when garnished with a dollop of sour cream mixed with lemon juice and dill. For an elevated experience, serve them with a side of mixed greens or a tangy coleslaw, providing a refreshing contrast to the crispy patties.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes! If using fresh salmon, cook it first, then flake it and add it to the mixture.

→ How long can I store these patties?

Cooked patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with these patties?

They go well with sour cream, tartar sauce, or a simple salad on the side.

→ Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to meet dietary needs.