Name: Easy Salmon Patties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 15 oz canned salmon (well-drained, flaked); 5 oz frozen spinach (thawed, water squeezed out); 3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed); 4 eggs (beaten); 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (use less if hash browns are pre-seasoned); Ground black pepper to taste; Olive oil (or other cooking oil) for frying

There’s something truly magical about a recipe that checks all the boxes: easy to make, budget-friendly, nutritious, and, most importantly, packed with incredible flavor. Enter the world of Easy Salmon Patties. These golden, crispy patties are the ultimate comfort food, combining the goodness of salmon, spinach, and hash browns into one mouthwatering dish that’s both hearty and healthy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a protein-packed lunch that even picky eaters will enjoy, this recipe has you covered.

I first stumbled upon the idea of salmon patties during a busy week when I was rummaging through my pantry, trying to make something satisfying with minimal effort. Canned salmon was sitting there, waiting to be transformed into something special. Paired with thawed spinach and crispy hash browns, these patties quickly became a go-to recipe in my household. The best part? They come together in no time and require ingredients you probably already have on hand.

These Easy Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a main dish with a simple salad on the side, sandwich them between buns for a casual burger-style meal, or even serve them as kid-friendly nuggets. The combination of tender, flaky salmon with crispy hash browns and nutritious spinach makes these patties irresistible. And because they’re packed with protein and vegetables, they’re a great choice for a balanced meal that feels indulgent but is actually good for you.

If you’ve been searching for a simple yet satisfying recipe to add to your rotation, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into why these Easy Salmon Patties deserve a spot on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for so many reasons, and I can’t wait for you to experience why these Easy Salmon Patties are such a hit.

Easy to Make: One of the biggest perks of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few straightforward steps and minimal prep work, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you need something delicious but quick.

Budget-Friendly: Canned salmon is an affordable alternative to fresh fish, making this dish both economical and tasty. Plus, using frozen spinach and hash browns means you can keep most of the ingredients in your freezer until you’re ready to use them.

Nutritious and Satisfying: These patties are packed with protein from the salmon and eggs, iron from the spinach, and energizing carbohydrates from the hash browns. They’re also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these patties as a standalone meal, in sandwiches, or as part of a healthy salad. You can even shape them into smaller nuggets if you’re cooking for kids.

Great for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch of these patties and store them in the freezer for quick and convenient meals later on. Just reheat and enjoy!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving them to kids, adults, or picky eaters, these salmon patties are bound to be a hit. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them incredibly appealing to everyone.

Health Benefits

Not only are these Easy Salmon Patties delicious, but they also offer impressive health benefits that make them a smart addition to your meal plan.

High in Protein: Thanks to the canned salmon and eggs, these patties are loaded with protein, essential for muscle repair, energy, and overall health. This high-protein content makes them especially great for post-workout meals or for keeping you full and energized throughout the day.

Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is famous for its omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation. Adding these salmon patties to your diet is an excellent way to support your cardiovascular health and cognitive function.

Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals: Spinach adds a boost of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and folate. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining good vision, promoting immune function, and supporting healthy blood circulation.

Gluten-Free and Low in Carbohydrates: Because these patties are made with hash browns instead of breadcrumbs, they’re a gluten-free option that also keeps carbs to a minimum. This makes them suitable for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet.

Good Source of Antioxidants: Spinach and salmon both provide antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This means better skin, improved immunity, and overall well-being.

Heart-Healthy Ingredients: With olive oil as the cooking fat, you’re also getting a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber makes these patties a balanced, nourishing meal.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: Makes approximately 8 patties
Nutritional Information (Per Patty):
Calories: 210
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 540mg

This nutritional breakdown is based on using olive oil for frying and standard hash browns. If you prefer to bake the patties, the calorie count will be slightly lower.

Ingredients List

To make these delicious salmon patties, you’ll need the following ingredients:

15 oz canned salmon (well-drained, flaked): This provides the rich, flaky base for your patties. Canned salmon is budget-friendly and packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
5 oz frozen spinach (thawed, water squeezed out): Adds color, flavor, and a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
Make sure to remove as much water as possible to keep the patties from becoming soggy.
3 cups frozen hash browns (thawed): These give the patties their signature crispiness. Thaw them completely before mixing to ensure even cooking.
4 eggs (beaten): Acts as a binder to hold everything together and adds extra protein to the patties.
1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (use less if hash browns are pre-seasoned): Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors.
Ground black pepper to taste: Adds a hint of warmth and spice.
Olive oil (or other cooking oil) for frying: Helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust.

Sure! Let’s dive into the cooking process.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:
- Thaw the frozen spinach and hash browns completely.
- Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and flake it with a fork.
- Squeeze out all excess water from the spinach to avoid soggy patties.
Mix Everything Together:
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, spinach, hash browns, beaten eggs, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape into patties.
Form the Patties:
- Using your hands, form the mixture into palm-sized patties. Aim for about 8 patties, but you can make them smaller or larger depending on your preference.
Cook the Patties:
- Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the patties and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Serve:
- Enjoy warm on their own, over a salad, or in a sandwich with your favorite sauce.

These simple steps will give you perfectly cooked salmon patties every time. Now, let’s talk about serving ideas.

How to Serve

These salmon patties are versatile and work beautifully in various meals. Here are some serving suggestions:

As a Main Dish: Serve alongside a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal.
In a Sandwich: Place the patties between toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar or garlic aioli.
With Dipping Sauces: Offer options like lemon-dill yogurt sauce, spicy mayo, or classic tartar sauce.
Over a Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad topped with avocado and a light vinaigrette.
Kid-Friendly Nuggets: Shape the mixture into smaller patties and serve with ketchup or honey mustard for a kid-approved meal.

No matter how you serve them, these patties will be a hit. Now, let’s explore some great pairings.

Pairing Suggestions

Complement your salmon patties with these tasty options:

Salads: A crisp arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and lemon vinaigrette enhances the freshness of the patties.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, carrots, or zucchini for a hearty side dish.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling, balanced meal.
Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges pair perfectly with the patties’ tender, flaky texture.
Sauces: Lemon-dill sauce, avocado cream, or even classic tartar sauce make fantastic additions.

Want to save some for later? Let’s talk about storage.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

These salmon patties are perfect for meal prepping and freezing. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Storage: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also bake them at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry.

Keeping them crispy is all about reheating them properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your salmon patties turn out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:

Not Draining the Spinach: Excess moisture from the spinach can make the patties fall apart. Squeeze out as much water as possible.
Skipping the Oil: Frying the patties in enough oil is essential for achieving that desirable golden-brown crust.
Overmixing the Mixture: Mix the ingredients gently to avoid making the patties dense.
Using Low Heat: Cooking on too low of heat will make the patties absorb more oil and turn out greasy. Use medium heat for best results.
Crowding the Pan: Cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can affect their texture.

With these tips in mind, your salmon patties will be flawless every single time.

Pro Tips

For even better results, keep these extra tips in mind:

Chill the Mixture: Let the mixture chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before forming patties. This helps them hold their shape better.
Add Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, dill, or chives can enhance the flavor profile.
Bake for Less Oil: If you prefer a healthier version, bake the patties at 400°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding paprika, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor.
Make It Kid-Friendly: Shape the patties into smaller nuggets and serve with fun dipping sauces.

Now, let’s answer some common questions about these salmon patties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes! Simply cook and flake fresh salmon before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
How do I make the patties hold together better?
Ensure the spinach is well-drained, and chill the mixture before forming patties. Adding an extra egg can also help.
Are these patties suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, as long as your hash browns are gluten-free. Always check the packaging to be sure.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! Prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook it down first and squeeze out the excess water.
What’s the best oil for frying?
Olive oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil with a high smoke point works well.
Can I add cheese to the patties?
Sure! Adding some shredded Parmesan or mozzarella can add extra flavor and moisture.
Why are my patties falling apart?
It’s likely due to excess moisture. Make sure all ingredients are well-drained before mixing.
Can I freeze the patties before cooking?
Yes, but it’s better to cook them first for easier reheating later.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Easy Salmon Patties are everything you want in a meal: flavorful, nutritious, and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making dinner for one, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Plus, the versatility of these patties means you can customize them to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ready to give these salmon patties a try? I’d love to hear how yours turn out. Snap a photo and tag me on social media or drop a comment below with your experience. And if you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!