Air Fryer Salmon Patties

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Salmon patties are a satisfying and healthy meal that transforms simple pantry staples into a crispy, flavorful dish. Making these patties in an air fryer gives you the golden crust you crave without the extra oil. Whether you call them fish cakes, croquettes, or burgers from the sea, these patties offer a quick solution for lunches and dinners alike.

This guide walks you through every step of making air fryer salmon patties, from choosing the right salmon to the finishing touches like sauces and side ideas. You’ll find tips on achieving the perfect texture, tricks to keep your patties intact, and creative ways to serve them.

Why Make Salmon Patties in the Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer delivers all the crispiness of classic fried salmon patties, but with less oil and less mess. The hot circulating air browns the outside evenly and locks in moisture, so your patties stay juicy inside. It’s also a hands-off technique—no babysitting a skillet or worrying about hot oil splattering in the kitchen.

Ingredients & Variations

You only need a few simple ingredients:

• Salmon: Choose fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned. Fresh catches like sockeye or Atlantic salmon work best, but canned is convenient and tasty.
• Binder: All-purpose flour, breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed crackers.
• Egg: Helps bind everything together for clean, sturdy patties.
• Flavorings: Chives, fresh parsley, garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper.
• Optional add-ins: Finely diced red pepper, corn, Dijon mustard, shredded parmesan.

Example Ingredient Table

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prepare the Aioli Dipping Sauce

A flavorful sauce adds richness and contrast to the crisp salmon patties. While optional, it’s a great finishing touch. Here’s a quick recipe:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika

Stir the ingredients in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate while you make the patties. This lets the flavors meld and the dip chill.

2. Make the Salmon Patty Mixture

Fresh Salmon

• Mince the salmon finely with a sharp knife or pulse in a food processor. No need to remove the skin—it adds flavor and texture.
• Place the salmon in a large bowl.

Canned or Pre-Cooked Salmon

• Drain, then use two forks to flake the salmon.

Mix-Ins

• Add chopped herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
• Stir in the flour or binding agent and the egg.
• Add any extras you want: red bell pepper, corn, or cheese.

Stir everything together until well-mixed. If the mixture feels loose, add more flour, breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers a tablespoon at a time.

3. Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal parts for larger patties or six for smaller ones. Use damp hands to press each portion into a ½-inch thick round. Uniform thickness helps them cook evenly.

Sticking Prevention: If you have time, chill the patties for 20 minutes. Cold patties stay together better in the air fryer.

4. Air Fry the Patties

Prep

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F for about five minutes.
• Slice a lemon and place a wedge under each patty inside the basket to prevent sticking and add flavor.

Cooking

• Arrange patties in a single layer—do not overcrowd.
• Lightly spray or brush the tops with oil (olive, avocado, or canola).
• Set the air fryer to 275°F.
• Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Spray the other side after flipping to promote crispiness.

Cooking times may vary by air fryer model and patty size. The patties should reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F and turn golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked patties to a serving plate. Pair with chilled aioli, fresh lemon wedges, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Tips and Troubleshooting

Keeping Salmon Patties from Falling Apart

• Binding: Use enough flour, breadcrumbs, crackers, or even potato chips. A room temperature egg helps everything stick.
• Chill: Refrigerate or freeze patties before cooking for better structure.
• Gentle Flipping: Only flip after a solid crust forms (around the halfway point). Use a silicone spatula to avoid scratching your basket.
• Moisture Control: If your mix feels too wet, add more binding. If too dry, a little mayo or extra egg makes it moist.

Customization Ideas

• Binder Alternatives: Almond flour, panko, or even finely crushed cornflakes give different textures.
• Flavor Variations: Add chili flakes for heat, Dijon for tang, or grated parmesan for a savory boost.
• Veggies: Mix in corn, red onion, grated carrot, or spinach for color and variety.

Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and store extra uncooked patties. Stack between pieces of parchment paper, seal in a container, and refrigerate up to two days or freeze for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Finding the right partners for salmon patties makes the meal complete. Here are some versatile sides and serving ideas:

Fresh Sides

• Coleslaw: Creamy, tangy slaw brightens and adds crunch.
• Green Salad: Arugula, cucumber, and tomato tossed in vinaigrette.
• Air Fried Asparagus: Cook alongside your patties for a quick, healthy side.

Hearty Pairings

• Steamed Rice or Quinoa: Adds substance to make the meal filling.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Roasted, crisped, and sweet—great for dipping.
• Bread Options: Brioche bun, toasted rolls, or whole-grain bread for a salmon burger.

Lighter Pairings

• Roasted Carrots: Naturally sweet and caramelized.
• Cucumber Salad: Cool and refreshing with dill and yogurt.

Sauces Beyond Aioli

• Tartar Sauce: For a classic seafood match.
• Herb Yogurt Dip: Greek yogurt, dill, lemon, and a little honey.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Short-Term: Refrigerate cooked patties in a sealed container for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for three to four minutes to restore crispness.

Long-Term: Freeze uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before air frying. Add 1-2 extra minutes for a full cook-through.

Quick Reference Table

Air fryer salmon patties bring together bold flavors and crisp textures while keeping things simple and healthy. Adapt the recipe to suit your pantry, and serve them up with your favorite sides or sauces. For quick weeknight dinners or impressive lunches, these patties offer a versatile and practical answer.