Air Fryer Salmon Patties: Crispy & Delicious
I’m a mom of two, always searching for quick, healthy meals. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my Air Fryer Salmon Patties recipe. These patties are not only tasty but also super easy to make, ready in under 15 minutes.
The air fryer is the key to these patties’ success. It makes them crispy without needing lots of oil or deep frying. This way, we get a healthy salmon recipe that’s full of flavor and good for us.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a quick and easy meal option, taking less than 15 minutes to prepare.
- The air fryer method creates a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil or deep frying.
- Salmon is a nutrient-dense protein that provides numerous health benefits.
- These patties can be served as a main dish, in sliders, or over salads for a versatile and satisfying meal.
- The recipe yields 3 servings of 2 patties each, making it a great option for meal prepping or feeding a family.
Why Air Fryer Salmon Patties Are the Perfect Healthy Choice
Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a great choice for quick, healthy meals. They’re full of salmon‘s health benefits. Plus, air frying is a better choice than deep-frying.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is known for its omega-3 fatty acids and protein. These are key for a heart-smart diet. Salmon also has lots of B vitamins, important for energy and health.
Advantages of Air Frying vs. Traditional Frying
Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying. This makes the patties a healthier choice. It also keeps the salmon’s natural flavors and nutrients.
Quick and Convenient Meal Option
Making Air Fryer Salmon Patties is easy, taking only 25 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a protein-rich and easy seafood dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Patties
Making tasty Gluten-Free Salmon Patties or Low-Carb Air Fryer Recipes begins with picking the right ingredients. These patties need a mix of elements for the best texture and taste.
The base of any good salmon patty is the salmon itself. You can use canned salmon or fresh fillets. Both add a great flavor and firm texture. Eggs and mayonnaise help hold the patties together. Breadcrumbs or gluten-free panko crumbs make them crispy.
To add a zesty flavor, try lemon zest, Old Bay, and fresh dill. Chopped red onion, bell pepper, or grated Parmesan cheese can also enhance the taste.

The secret to making the best Gluten-Free Salmon Patties or Low-Carb Air Fryer Recipes is balancing the ingredients. With a bit of trial and error, you can make healthy and delicious salmon patties that everyone will love.
How to Prepare Salmon for Your Patties
Creating tasty Omega-3 Salmon Dishes or Healthy Salmon Recipes starts with how you prepare the salmon. Whether you choose fresh or canned salmon, the right preparation is key.
Using Fresh Salmon vs Canned Salmon
Both fresh and canned salmon are great for air fryer salmon patties. If using canned salmon, drain it well and remove any skin or bones. This makes your patties smooth and cohesive.
With fresh salmon, you can cook it first and then flake it with a fork. Or, you can chop it finely in a food processor before adding it to your patty mix.
Proper Draining and Flaking Techniques
It’s important to drain the salmon well, whether it’s fresh or canned. This prevents your patties from being soggy. Use a paper towel or clean kitchen towel to soak up excess moisture.
For fresh salmon, flake it into small pieces using two forks. This helps the salmon mix well with other ingredients in your patty.

“The secret to perfectly crispy air fryer salmon patties is all in the preparation. Ensure your salmon is well-drained and flaked before mixing it into the patty ingredients.”
Air Fryer Salmon Patties: Step-by-Step Recipe
Try these tasty Air Fryer Salmon Patties for a healthier seafood option. They’re easy to make and packed with omega-3s from salmon. Cooked to a crispy perfection, they’re a hit with the whole family.
Start by mixing salmon with the right ingredients, shaping into patties, and chilling them for 20 minutes. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Lightly oil the basket and patties, then cook for 8-10 minutes until golden and safe to eat. No need to flip them, making this meal easy and convenient.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced onion, and your preferred seasonings until well-incorporated.
- Using a 1/2 cup measure, gently form the mixture into evenly sized patties, being careful not to overpack them.
- Place the salmon patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Lightly brush the air fryer basket and the tops of the patties with a small amount of oil.
- Arrange the salmon patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F. No need to flip during the cooking process.
Serve your Air Fryer Salmon Patties hot, garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy this delicious and healthy Easy Seafood Dinner made with your air fryer.

Seasoning and Flavor Combinations
When it comes to Crispy Salmon Cakes and Healthy Salmon Recipes, the secret is in the seasoning. You can mix classic herbs with bold spices to make your air-fried salmon patties unique. This lets you tailor the taste to your liking.
Classic Herb Combinations
Classic herbs like dill, parsley, and Old Bay seasoning are a great start. They enhance salmon’s natural flavor. Try mixing cilantro and lime or basil and garlic for a fresh twist on Crispy Salmon Cakes.
Spice Variations for Different Tastes
- Add Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce for a savory taste.
- Use cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- Try lemon juice and fresh parsley for a zesty flavor that pairs well with Healthy Salmon Recipes.
Air-fried Crispy Salmon Cakes are incredibly versatile. Don’t be afraid to try different seasonings and flavors. With a bit of creativity, you can make these salmon patties truly special.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Crispy Exterior
To get that golden-brown, crispy exterior on Crispy Salmon Cakes and Air Fryer Fish Cakes, you need to prepare well. Here are some key tips to follow:
- Chill the salmon patties well before cooking. Let them firm up in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them keep their shape and crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
- Lightly brush or spray the salmon patties with a thin layer of oil before cooking. This helps the exterior get that irresistible crunch.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for the best crispiness. The hot air circulation is key to achieving that perfect crust.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the salmon patties in batches if needed to ensure proper air flow around each one.
- Air fry the Crispy Salmon Cakes for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should reach a beautiful golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to create Crispy Salmon Cakes and Air Fryer Fish Cakes with a delightfully crisp exterior. Your taste buds will thank you.
Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
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7 minutes | 12 minutes | 19 minutes | 2 patties |
Serving Suggestions and Accompaniments
Air fryer salmon patties are a tasty and healthy Easy Seafood Dinner. They pair well with many sides to make a complete Quick Protein-Rich Meal.
Sauce Pairings
Try serving your salmon patties with creamy lemon aioli or tangy remoulade sauce. These sauces contrast the salmon’s richness and add flavor.
Side Dish Options
- Crispy roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or sweet potato wedges, are a healthy side.
- A refreshing salad, such as a Shirazi salad, balances the salmon patties’ heartiness.
- For a treat, serve the patties on soft buns with avocado and pickled red onions for a salmon burger.
- As an appetizer, serve small salmon patties with a creamy lemon-dill yogurt dip.
Air fryer salmon patties are versatile. They can be part of a complete Easy Seafood Dinner or Quick Protein-Rich Meal. They suit many tastes and diets.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying Meal Prep Salmon Patties or Air Fryer Salmon Patties doesn’t have to stop after one meal. You can keep them delicious for days with the right storage and reheating.
To store them, put the cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready, just put them in your air fryer at 360°F for 3 minutes. They’ll be hot and crispy again. Or, you can microwave them, but they might not be as crispy.
For longer storage, freeze the patties. Let them cool, then put them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once frozen, put them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last up to 3 months. To reheat, just put them in the air fryer for a bit longer.
Whether you’re meal prepping or just want to enjoy these Air Fryer Salmon Patties whenever you want, follow these tips. You’ll enjoy their delicious taste over and over again.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making perfect Air Fryer Salmon Cakes takes practice. But with a few tips, you’ll soon be making crispy, tasty patties. Let’s look at common problems and how to solve them.
Preventing Patties from Breaking
To keep your patties together, mix the ingredients well and chill them before cooking. If it’s too wet, add more panko breadcrumbs or almond flour. Be gentle when placing them in the air fryer basket. Use a silicone spatula to lift them out without breaking.
Achieving the Right Texture
For the best texture, don’t overmix the batter. This can make the patties dense and tough. Cook at 390°F to crisp the outside while keeping the inside moist. Use a meat thermometer to check the patties reach 145°F before serving.
Common Issue | Solution |
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Patties breaking apart |
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Achieving the right texture |
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Follow these tips for perfectly crispy Air Fryer Salmon Cakes. Try different seasonings and ways to serve them to find your favorite.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Preparing Meal Prep Salmon Patties ahead of time saves you time on busy weeknights. These tips help you enjoy quick, healthy meals whenever you want. You can make delicious air fryer salmon patties with ease.
Refrigerating Uncooked Patties
You can make the salmon patty mixture up to 48 hours in advance. Just form the patties and store them in the fridge. This way, cooking becomes easy when you’re ready to eat.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
- First, form the patties and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze them for 2-3 hours until they’re solid.
- Then, put them in an airtight freezer bag or container. This keeps them from sticking together.
- Frozen patties last up to 3 months.
Cooking Frozen Salmon Patties
You don’t need to thaw frozen patties before cooking. Just cook them straight from the freezer in your air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
With these tips, you can always have healthy Meal Prep Salmon Patties ready. Enjoy a quick and nutritious meal anytime.
Conclusion
The air fryer salmon patties are a great choice for any meal. They are perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. These patties are crispy, flavorful, and packed with the health benefits of salmon.
Whether you like classic herbs or bold spices, you can make these Air Fryer Salmon Patties your own. Add your favorite sauces and sides for a complete Healthy Salmon Recipes meal. Everyone in your family will enjoy it.
These Easy Seafood Dinner options are quick to make and can be prepared ahead of time. They offer a crispy outside and a tender, flavorful inside. Enjoy them for a delicious and healthy meal anytime.