Name: Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup canned or cooked salmon; 0.5 cup breadcrumbs 1 large egg; 0.25 cup chopped green onions 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying); 0.5 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon chopped dill or parsley Salt and pepper to taste

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flaky salmon, these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are a savory sensation you won’t forget. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers on flavor and comfort. The tangy, garlicky sauce is the perfect contrast to the warm, crispy patties, bringing each bite to life.

These patties are also incredibly versatile. They can be served as sliders, on top of a salad, or alongside roasted veggies. Plus, they’re a clever way to use canned salmon or repurpose leftovers. With a prep time under 30 minutes, they strike that perfect balance between easy and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Fast & Easy: Made with pantry staples and ready in under half an hour.
Flavor-Packed: Garlic, lemon, herbs, and tender salmon make every bite pop.
Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer, lunch, or light dinner.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters enjoy these crispy delights.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The patties and sauce can be prepped in advance.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Having the right tools on hand will make this recipe a breeze:

Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining your salmon patty mixture and whisking your sauce.
Non-stick Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: Helps achieve that crispy golden crust without sticking.
Spatula: Ideal for flipping patties without breaking them apart.
Zester or Microplane: To get fine lemon zest into the sauce and patty mix.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Ensures precise seasoning and sauce consistency.

Each tool plays a role in texture and balance—from mixing the perfect patty base to getting that irresistible golden sear. Having everything prepped beforehand makes cooking faster and cleaner.

Ingredients for the Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

For the Salmon Patties:

Canned or Cooked Salmon: The star ingredient, it brings savory depth and a flaky texture.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind the patties and provide body.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together.
Green Onions: Add a subtle bite and freshness.
Garlic: Enhances the savory flavor.
Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and complexity.
Lemon Zest: Brightens the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Balance and enhance all the flavors.
Olive Oil: Used for pan-frying the patties to a golden finish.

For the Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce:

Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base.
Lemon Juice: Brings sharp acidity that cuts through the richness.
Garlic (minced or grated): Adds robust flavor.
Fresh Dill or Parsley: For a touch of herbal freshness.
Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.

How To Make the Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Patty Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped green onions, garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork or the patties may become tough.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Divide the mixture evenly and form into small, compact patties. Place them on a plate and chill in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, chopped dill or parsley, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the warm salmon patties and drizzle with the creamy lemon-garlic sauce. Garnish with extra herbs and lemon wedges if desired.

How to Serve and Store These Salmon Patties

Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce are best enjoyed hot from the skillet, but they also store beautifully. Serve them as a main dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad. They also make great sliders or wraps for a casual lunch.

To store, let them cool completely and place in an airtight container. They keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely. Just cook and flake the fresh salmon beforehand. It adds an even richer flavor and texture.

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is moist but not too wet. Chilling before frying and not flipping them too early helps hold their shape.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?

Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as lighter alternatives. They still provide creaminess with a tangy kick.

Are these salmon patties gluten-free?

They can be! Just substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I bake the patties instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but still delicious.

What sides pair well with these patties?

Try serving them with garlic mashed potatoes, a light quinoa salad, or even roasted asparagus for a wholesome meal.

Want More Salmon Recipes with a Twist?

If you loved these Salmon Patties with Creamy Lemon-Garlic Sauce, don’t miss out on more delicious seafood creations:

Honey Garlic Salmon Bites with a caramelized edge and bold sweet-savory glaze.
Crispy Salmon Tacos for a fresh and zesty dinner idea.
Baked Teriyaki Salmon when you’re craving umami-packed weeknight ease.
Garlic Butter Sheet Pan Salmon with roasted veggies for a one-pan meal.
Salmon Avocado Toast for a high-protein, brunch-friendly twist.

Each of these recipes brings out the best in salmon with unique seasonings, sauces, and serving styles.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the lemon? Swap out the herbs? Maybe even spice it up with a dash of cayenne?

I love hearing how others put their own spin on these recipes. Share your creations or questions—let’s keep cooking and connecting.

Looking for more daily inspiration? Follow my Pinterest board Kitchen By Kate for even more cozy and flavorful dishes.