Air Fryer Salmon Patties

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Golden, crispy salmon patties offer a light yet satisfying twist on classic comfort food. These Air Fryer Salmon Patties give you all the flavor and crunch you love, but with less oil and mess than traditional frying. Whether you’re after a quick lunch, a family dinner, or meal prep for the week, this recipe brings convenience and nutrition to your table.

Why Choose Air Fryer Salmon Patties?

Preparing salmon patties in an air fryer presents several advantages. First, you skip most of the oil, slashing calories and saturated fat. You still enjoy a crisp exterior and moist, flaky interior, all without pan splatter or heating up the kitchen. Salmon itself is loaded with Omega-3s, high-quality protein, and important vitamins like B12 and D. This combination supports heart health, brain function, and energy levels.

For those working with limited time, these patties come together quickly. The air fryer excels at creating an even, golden crust without constant watching or flipping. From start to finish, you’ll have patties ready to serve in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients and Variations

The beauty of salmon patties lies in their adaptability. Here’s a base to get you started:

Main Ingredients

• 12 ounces fresh salmon, skinned and finely chopped (or use well-drained canned salmon)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or substitute with panko breadcrumbs or almond flour)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Zest and juice from half a lemon
• Olive or avocado oil spray

Ideas for Customization

Give your salmon patties a personal touch with these optional add-ins:

• ¼ cup corn kernels for extra sweetness and pop
• Finely chopped red bell peppers for more color and crunch
• A spoonful of grated Parmesan cheese for depth of flavor
• A dash of smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for a hint of spice
• Dollop of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise in the mix for creaminess

Simple Steps for Making Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Below is a straightforward process that keeps things easy, practical, and flexible for your kitchen.

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

If you’re using fresh salmon, finely chop the fillet with a sharp knife. For canned salmon, drain well and remove large bones if desired. Flake the fish into small pieces—using two forks works well here.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine salmon, chives or green onions, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the flour or binder of your choice. Add the beaten egg, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until just combined. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise; if too wet, a bit more flour or breadcrumbs brings it together.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions for main-course patties, or more for sliders. Gently form each portion into a compact, uniform patty with your hands. Patties about ¾ inch thick cook most evenly. If you like, chill the patties in the refrigerator for 20 minutes—this helps firm them up and hold their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for five minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking. For extra flavor, place a slice of lemon under each patty, or simply brush the basket and patty bottoms with oil.

Step 5: Air Fry the Salmon Patties

Arrange the patties in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them for air circulation. Lightly spray the tops with oil for extra crunch.

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes. Flip each patty carefully with a rubber spatula, then spray the tops again. Continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the center reaches 145°F (63°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Lift the patties out and transfer to a serving plate. Let them rest for a minute or two—the crust will stay crisp, and the insides stay tender.

Dipping Sauces and Garnish Suggestions

Pairing the right sauce with salmon patties elevates the experience. Here are a few options:

Classic Lemon Aioli

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon Dijon or grainy mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and chill before serving. For a tangy punch, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Other Sauces

• Spicy Sriracha mayo: Blend mayonnaise, Sriracha, and a squeeze of lime.
• Greek yogurt dill sauce: Mix plain Greek yogurt with chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, and cracked pepper.
• Tartar sauce: Combine mayo, chopped pickles, capers, and parsley.

Garnish your plate with fresh lemon wedges, chopped herbs, or a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Troubleshooting: Keeping Salmon Patties Intact

Salmon patties sometimes threaten to fall apart during cooking. Here’s how to avoid crumbling:

• Make sure there’s enough binder—egg and flour help hold the mixture together.
• If your mixture feels loose, add more flour, breadcrumbs, or even crushed crackers gradually.
• Chill the formed patties before cooking. A short stint in the fridge firms up the texture.
• Flip the patties only after the first side forms a crust, about halfway through the cook time.

If you want a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free crackers in place of wheat flour.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Consistency and technique make all the difference. Consider these pointers:

• Shape evenly sized patties for even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary for the crispiest crust.
• Preheating the air fryer guarantees even, golden results.
• Use a silicone spatula to prevent scratching the air fryer basket and to gently handle the delicate patties.
• Store cooked patties in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze uncooked patties in a single layer for quick future meals.

Freezing and Meal Prep

To freeze, arrange uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking as directed, adding a minute or two if needed.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Complement your meal with sides that round out the flavors and textures. Here are a few classic combinations:

• Coleslaw: Crisp, tangy slaw refreshes the palate and pairs well with the savory, flaky patties.
• Steamed or Roasted Veggies: Asparagus, green beans, or roasted carrots bring color and nutritional balance.
• Grains: Serve with hot rice, quinoa, or farro for a more filling meal.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness marries perfectly with rich salmon.
• Simple Bread Roll or Bun: Tuck a patty into a sandwich, topped with greens and a favorite sauce, for a quick portable lunch.

Mix and match your favorite accompaniments to suit the occasion.

Common Questions

Can I use canned salmon?

Absolutely. Well-drained canned salmon works just as well and saves time. Leave the skin and small bones in for added calcium, or pick them out if you prefer.

Is fresh salmon better?

Fresh salmon offers a more delicate texture, but the flavor is excellent with either option.

Can I make smaller patties?

Yes, form mini-patties for sliders, appetizers, or party snacks. Adjust the cook time down by 2–3 minutes.

How do I prevent sticking?

Lightly grease both the basket and the bottoms of the patties, or use a slice of lemon underneath for easy lifting and a zesty boost.

Nutrition Overview

Each salmon patty serves up a hearty portion of protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients, with far less oil than fast-food options.

Nutritional values may vary based on your ingredients and batch size.

Air Fryer Salmon Patties provide a modern, healthy take on a classic recipe that’s accessible to cooks and diners of all ages. By starting with simple ingredients and a few minutes of effort, you unlock a bold, satisfying meal that feels special but fits into the busiest weeknight. Try them your way—tweaked with your favorite flavors, paired with a crisp salad, or stacked in a bun. Happy cooking.