Air Fryer Salmon Patties
These air fryer salmon patties are one of my favorite ways to turn salmon into a quick, and delicious meal.
Servings 8 salmon cakes
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked salmon, flaked
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 tablespoon avocado oil mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the diced onion, parsley, dill, and panko breadcrumbs. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes so the breadcrumbs can absorb the moisture.
- Gently fold in the flaked salmon, keeping the larger pieces intact and then divide the mixture into 8 equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick.
- This is optional, but I like to place the patties in the freezer for 12-15 minutes to help them firm up.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray both sides of the patties with oil.
- Arrange the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through cooking. Cook until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Video
Notes
Cooking Time and Temperature
Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.Taste & Texture
These salmon patties are crispy and golden on the outside with a moist, flaky center. The fresh herbs, Dijon mustard, and lemon give them a bright, fresh flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood.Storage, Freezing & Reheating
- Fridge: Store cooked salmon patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked or uncooked patties for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes until hot and crispy.
Serving Recommendations
I love serving these with a simple salad and a yogurt-based sauce for lunch or dinner. They're also great tucked into a sandwich, wrapped in pita bread, or served as appetizers for gatherings.Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Salmon: Leftover cooked salmon provides the best texture, but canned salmon works well too.
- Panko: Regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, almond flour, or crushed pork rinds can be substituted.
- Dill: Replace with extra parsley, chives, or green onions.
- Seasoning: Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or garlic herb blends all work wonderfully.
Proper Storage Tips
- Allow patties to cool completely before storing.
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Freeze individually for easy meal prep.
- Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispness.
Pro Tips
- Use leftover salmon for the best texture.
- Let the breadcrumb mixture hydrate before adding the fish.
- Keep larger salmon flakes intact for a more premium texture.
- Chill the patties before cooking if they feel soft.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Serve with fresh lemon wedges for the best flavor.