Print

Ultimate Crispy Salmon Cakes: Quick Weeknight Dinner

A stack of three golden-brown, crispy salmon cakes resting on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make flavorful salmon cakes that are crispy on the outside and tender inside. This easy recipe works well with both fresh or canned salmon, delivering a satisfying, budget-friendly seafood dinner in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh salmon fillet, cooked and flaked, OR 1 (14.75 oz) can pink salmon, drained and flaked
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus more for coating
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. If using fresh salmon, cook it until flaky, then let it cool slightly. Drain the canned salmon well if using. Place the salmon in a medium bowl.
  2. Add the 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the salmon.
  3. Mix all ingredients gently with a fork until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the cakes tough.
  4. Form the mixture into 6 equal patties, about 1 inch thick.
  5. Place extra panko breadcrumbs on a shallow plate. Lightly coat both sides of each salmon cake with the extra panko.
  6. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  7. Carefully place the salmon cakes in the hot skillet, ensuring they do not touch. Work in batches if necessary.
  8. Pan-fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the exterior is golden brown and crispy, and the cakes are heated through.
  9. Remove the crispy salmon cakes from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  10. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For a healthier preparation, bake the cakes at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, or use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
  • This recipe pairs well with a zesty lemon-dill yogurt sauce or classic tartar sauce.
  • If you have leftover salmon from a previous meal, this is an excellent way to repurpose it into a quick seafood dinner.

Nutrition