Salmon Cakes

Salmon Cakes

Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, these classic salmon cakes come together quickly with pantry staples and canned or fresh salmon. A squeeze of lemon and a touch of Dijon bring brightness, while breadcrumbs and egg hold everything together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner served with a simple green salad or tartar sauce.

4 servings · Prep 15 min · Cook 12 min · Total 27 min

American · Main Course · Dinner

  • 14.75 oz canned salmon drained, skin and large bones removed
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs plain or panko
  • panko
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest from about 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt plus more
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter, for pan-frying
  • butter

Equipment

  • Stovetop
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet
  • Paper Towel
  • Fork
  • Measuring Cups
  • Plates
  • Spatula
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Mixing Bowl (4 Quarts)
  • Dipping Fork
  • Grater

Instructions

  1. Drain the canned @[Salmon] thoroughly and transfer to a large #[Mixing Bowl]. Use a fork to flake the @[Salmon], removing any large bones or skin. Add the @[Mayonnaise], @[Dijon Mustard], beaten @[Eggs], @[Lemon Zest], @[Lemon Juice], @[Garlic Powder], @[Salt], and @[Black Pepper]. Stir to combine.
  2. Fold in the @[Breadcrumbs], chopped @[Parsley], and sliced @[Green Onions] until the mixture is evenly combined. It should hold together when pressed — if it feels too wet, add another tablespoon of @[Breadcrumbs].
  3. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾-inch thick. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for ~[10 minutes] to help them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
  4. Heat the @[Olive Oil] in a large #[Skillet] over ^[medium heat] until shimmering. Add the salmon cakes in a single layer, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding. Cook for ~[3–4 minutes] per side, until deeply golden brown and heated through. Do not move them while they cook — let them develop a crust before flipping.
  5. Transfer the cooked salmon cakes to a plate lined with paper towels. Serve immediately with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a dollop of sour cream. They pair beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.