The aroma of sizzling salmon cakes fills the kitchen as I prepare this delightful dish. Imagine golden-brown patties crisping up in a frying pan, promising a burst of flavor in every bite. These salmon cakes with canned salmon are not just a meal; they are a ticket to nostalgia and comfort—a recipe that takes me back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the delicious scent of homemade goodness.

On those special occasions, my grandmother would whip up her famous salmon cakes, and I would hover around the kitchen like a hungry little hawk. The anticipation of biting into those crispy delights was almost unbearable! Now it’s your turn to recreate this magic at home and impress your family with these irresistible bites of joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delightful salmon cakes are incredibly simple to make and require minimal ingredients
- Their rich flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds
- Visually appealing with their golden crust, they make for an impressive dish at any gathering
- Versatile enough for appetizers or main courses, you can adapt them to suit any occasion
I remember the first time I made these for my friends; their faces lit up as they took their first bites—priceless moments indeed!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Canned Salmon: Opt for high-quality canned wild-caught salmon for better flavor and sustainability.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture together.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs act as a binder to hold your patties together while adding richness.
- Green Onions: Finely sliced green onions add a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness.
- Mayonnaise: A dollop of mayonnaise enhances creaminess and adds moisture.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the rich taste of the salmon.
- Old Bay Seasoning: This classic seasoning blend adds depth and a hint of spice that pairs beautifully with seafood.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients on the counter. Open your cans of salmon and drain them well before flaking them into a bowl.
Create the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, green onions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning until mixed well but not overworked.
Scoop & Shape Patties: With clean hands or an ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into small patties about 2 inches wide. Place them on a platter lined with parchment paper.
Heat Up the Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to coat the bottom lightly. Wait until it shimmers before adding your patties.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Don’t forget to flip carefully!
Serve & Enjoy!: Once cooked through, serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or tartar sauce on the side. Enjoy those crispy bites!
Making these scrumptious salmon cakes with canned salmon is not just about nourishing your body; it’s also about filling your heart with warmth from cherished memories while creating new ones around the dinner table. Dive in and enjoy!
You Must Know
- These salmon cakes with canned salmon are simple and delicious
- They make for a quick weeknight dinner or a fancy appetizer
- The crispy exterior and tender interior will make your taste buds dance with joy
- Plus, they’re great for using pantry staples!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the ingredients while preheating your pan to ensure even cooking. Form the patties and place them in a hot skillet, letting them cook until golden brown on both sides for optimum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap canned salmon with fresh fish or add spices like dill or Old Bay seasoning for a unique twist. You can also incorporate chopped vegetables like bell peppers or green onions for added texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side to maintain crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure perfectly crispy salmon cakes, avoid overcrowding the pan when cooking
- Let the mixture rest before forming patties for better binding
- Experiment with sauces; a squeeze of lemon brightens flavors beautifully!
Cooking these salmon cakes with canned salmon brings back fond memories of family dinners. My grandmother would whip these up after long days at work, filling our home with delicious aromas that made everyone feel welcome.
FAQ
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
Yes, fresh salmon works well but requires extra cooking time.
What can I serve with these salmon cakes?
Pair them with tartar sauce, a salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How do I keep my salmon cakes from falling apart?
Ensure you properly mix ingredients and let the mixture rest before forming patties.

Easy Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (makes approximately 8 patties) 1x
Description
Salmon cakes with canned salmon are quick and flavorful bites that bring warmth to your table. Perfect for busy nights or gatherings, these savory patties will impress everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 can (14.75 oz) high-quality wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 3 green onions, finely sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and drain the canned salmon.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, green onions, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into small patties about 2 inches wide.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat lightly with oil.
- Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or tartar sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (60g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg