Savory Salmon Patties with Dill

Name: Savory Salmon Patties with Dill
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound cooked salmon, flaked; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg, beaten; 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

Highlighted under: Simple Health Recipes

I love making these savory salmon patties with dill for a quick and satisfying meal. They're ready in under 30 minutes and packed full of flavor. The fragrant dill complements the rich taste of salmon beautifully, making each bite a delight. I often serve them with a squeeze of lemon and a fresh salad on the side for a well-rounded meal. These patties are not only delicious, but they also make use of leftover salmon, helping to reduce waste in the kitchen.

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:38:28.234Z

When crafting these salmon patties, I experimented with different herbs and spices until I landed on dill for its freshness. Pairing it with breadcrumbs and a dash of mustard allowed for a perfect binding that enhanced the texture remarkably. It was a eureka moment when I realized that a hint of lemon zest elevates the flavors even further!

Cooking them in a hot skillet ensures a nice crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. I watch them closely, flipping them just at the right moment to achieve that golden brown perfection. My family can’t get enough of them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The bright flavor of dill perfectly balances the rich salmon.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and satisfying, making them great for meal prep.

      

Choosing the Right Salmon

For these salmon patties, using leftover cooked salmon is a fantastic way to reduce waste while ensuring rich flavor. If you don’t have leftover salmon, canned or pouch salmon works beautifully too. Just make sure to drain it well before using. Fresh salmon can also be a suitable alternative, however, you’ll need to cook it first—take care not to overcook it, as it should flake easily for the best texture in the patties.

Selecting the right type of salmon can also impact the taste of your patties. Sockeye and coho salmon are known for their robust flavor, while pink salmon is milder and can be a perfect balance if you're looking for something less strong. Experiment with different types to find your perfect flavor profile.

Achieving Perfect Patty Texture

When mixing the ingredients for the patties, it’s crucial to achieve the right consistency. The breadcrumbs serve to bind the mixture while ensuring it holds its shape. If the mixture feels too wet, adding extra breadcrumbs can help; conversely, if too dry, a touch of mayonnaise can moisten it without compromising flavor. Aim for a mixture that holds together without crumbling when formed into patties.

Refrigerating your formed patties for about 10 minutes not only helps them firm up but also enhances their ability to hold together during cooking. If you find the patties are falling apart in the skillet, it may be a good idea to mix in an extra beaten egg as a binder the next time or adjust the amount of breadcrumbs.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

These salmon patties are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or even atop a bed of quinoa for a complete meal. A squeeze of lemon not only adds brightness but also complements the dill beautifully; consider adding a dollop of tzatziki sauce or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.

If you want to prepare your salmon patties ahead of time, they store well in the refrigerator for about 1-2 days before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for up to a month; simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually and then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw—just increase the cooking time slightly until they are golden brown on both sides.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make delicious salmon patties:

Ingredients

1 pound cooked salmon, flaked
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

Make sure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your savory salmon patties:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, beaten egg, dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated, but be careful not to over-mix.

Form Patties

With your hands, form the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them firm up.

Cook the Patties

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the patties in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Once cooked, transfer the salmon patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges and your choice of salad.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade salmon patties!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding some minced garlic or diced green onions to the mixture. These patties also freeze well, so you can make a double batch for future meals.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your patties are breaking apart in the skillet, this often indicates that the mixture is too wet or that they need more binding agents. An extra egg or a small handful of breadcrumbs can remedy this, allowing for a better hold during cooking. Additionally, ensuring that the mixture is well-chilled before frying will help with their structural integrity.

Overcooking your patties can lead to a dry texture. Monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for 4-5 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Adjust your heat as needed; if they are browning too fast but not cooking through, reduce the heat slightly to ensure even cooking.

Flavor Variations to Try

Aside from dill, incorporating additional herbs can elevate your salmon patties. Fresh parsley or chives can add an aromatic touch, while a hint of smoked paprika can lend a unique flavor dimension. Even a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the richness of the salmon.

For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese or sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture. Not only will this enhance the flavor, but it will also add tanginess and richness, creating a different experience with each bite. Experiment with your favorite flavors to keep this recipe exciting!

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up this recipe is simple and effective for hosting gatherings or meal prepping for the week. For every additional pound of cooked salmon, you can easily double the rest of the ingredients. This maintains the ratios perfectly while allowing you to make more patties in the same time frame. Just be mindful of the size of your skillet; you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

If you need to scale down, these patties can be halved without losing their flavor or texture. If you find yourself with extra uncooked patties, they freeze well for an easy future meal as previously mentioned. Just make sure to label them with the date so you can use them within a month!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon instead?

Absolutely! Canned salmon works well and is a great time-saver.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftover salmon patties in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I bake these patties instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ What can I serve with salmon patties?

They pair well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of rice.