crispy salmon cakes topped with sour cream and herbs on a dark skillet

Air Fryer Salmon Patties

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Created on November 20th, 2025 at 09:50 am

Crispy, flavorful salmon patties

Salmon patties are a wonderful combination of convenience, flavor, and comfort. These air fryer salmon patties are both quick to prepare and deeply satisfying. Made with fresh ingredients, they offer a delightful crunch with each bite, enhanced by the succulent taste of salmon. Golden brown edges give way to a tender interior that is moist and full-bodied. The aroma of herbs and spices wafts through the kitchen as they cook, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste or two before serving.

What sets these salmon patties apart is their versatility. Enjoy them as a light lunch with a salad, as a dinner option alongside roasted vegetables, or even as an appetizer at your next gathering. They are easy to store and reheat, which makes for a great next-day meal. There’s something wonderfully comforting about a dish that so comfortably balances ease and flavor.

air fryer salmon patties topped with sour cream and herbs, served on a skillet with lemon wedge

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These air fryer salmon patties are the perfect marriage of texture and taste. The crispiness on the outside pairs perfectly with the tender, flaky fish on the inside. The combination of salmon, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and nutritious. They cook quickly in the air fryer, which means you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time.

This recipe also lends itself well to customization. Feel free to add your favorite spices, or swap out the bread crumbs for a gluten-free option. The next day, these patties can be enjoyed in a bun as a delightful salmon burger, making them a versatile choice that you’ll want to revisit regularly.

Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients List

  • 1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed and diced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Kitchen Tools

This recipe requires minimal tools, keeping your cooking experience straightforward and enjoyable. Start with a cutting board and a knife for easy prep, then a mixing bowl to combine the ingredients. An air fryer makes the cooking process quick and efficient, ensuring you achieve a delightful crunch.

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions


  1. Begin by preparing the salmon. Place the salmon fillet on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to dice it finely. You want nice little pieces to create a great texture for the patties. The salmon should feel moist and slightly tender as you chop it.



  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, parsley, and lemon zest. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Use a fork to mix everything together gently, creating a mixture that holds together while remaining somewhat chunky.



  3. Form the salmon mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should yield about eight patties. Press gently to ensure they hold their shape. The mixture will feel sticky yet manageable in your hands.



  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes while you arrange the patties. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.



  5. Place the salmon patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to work in batches.



  6. Cook the patties for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through in the middle. The aroma during cooking will fill your kitchen with a tempting scent.



  7. Once they’re done, remove the patties from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly, ensuring they stay intact when served.


Pro Tips

  • Make sure to chop the salmon finely for the best texture. Too large pieces may not bind well.
  • For a bit more flavor, try adding a pinch of Old Bay seasoning or smoked paprika.
  • Let the mixture rest for a few minutes before forming patties; this helps all the flavors meld together.
  • If the patties feel too loose, a bit more breadcrumbs can help them hold shape better.
  • These patties freeze nicely and can be reheated in the air fryer for a quick meal later.

Simple Comfort, Freshly Made

These air fryer salmon patties bring the elements of homemade comfort food to your table with ease. Their delightful crust and tender center combine to create a dish that is satisfying and wholesome. Whether you serve them as is or with a side salad, each bite offers a taste of warmth and nourishment. This recipe proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and fulfilling.

Nutrition Table

NutrientAmount (per serving)
Calories280 kcal
Protein23 g
Fat15 g
Carbohydrates15 g
Fiber1 g
Sugar0 g
Sodium400 mg

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

crispy salmon cakes topped with sour cream and herbs on a dark skillet

Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Isabella C., a passionate food writer and recipe creator, smiling in a cozy kitchen while sharing her love for homemade dishes.Isabella C.
Simple and delicious homemade salmon patties, perfectly crispy and flavorful.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh salmon, skin removed and diced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Begin by preparing the salmon. Place the salmon fillet on a cutting board and dice it finely.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the diced salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, parsley, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter, yielding about eight patties.

Cooking

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Arrange the salmon patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • Cook the patties for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
  • Once done, remove the patties from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes.

Notes

Chop the salmon finely for best texture. Adding Old Bay seasoning or smoked paprika can enhance flavor. Let the mixture rest before forming patties. If too loose, add breadcrumbs. These patties freeze well and can be reheated in the air fryer.
Keyword Air Fryer, Crispy Fish, Easy Dinner, Homemade, Salmon Patties

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