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These Air Fryer Salmon Patties are a quick and easy meal packed with flavor. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they deliver everything you love about classic salmon cakes—without the mess of frying in oil. Perfect for busy weeknights, summer meals, or a light lunch, this recipe comes together fast and uses simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
If you love your air fryer as much as I do, this recipe is going to be a favorite. It’s one of those dishes that proves just how versatile the air fryer really is. You get beautifully golden patties with minimal effort, no greasy stovetop, and easy cleanup. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad, and dinner is done.
Why You’ll Love These Salmon Patties
- Crispy outside, moist and tender inside
- Made in one bowl with minimal prep
- No frying oil or messy cleanup
- Ready in under 25 minutes
- Perfect for meal prep, lunch, or dinner
One reader summed it up best:
“Best salmon cakes I’ve ever eaten! Moist, tasty, and so quick to make. Thank you!”
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of salmon should I use?
Canned pink salmon works best for this recipe, but smoked or fresh cooked salmon can also be used. If using canned salmon, remove any skin or bones if preferred.
Can I change the seasonings?
Absolutely. This seasoning blend is a favorite, but feel free to adjust it to your taste or add spices you love.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes. Panko adds extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will still work just fine.
Do I need to spray the air fryer basket?
Yes. Lightly spraying the basket with olive oil spray prevents sticking. Avoid vegetable oil spray, as it can leave residue on the basket over time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. These patties also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Canned pink salmon
- Egg
- Mayonnaise
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Fresh lemon juice
- Dried dill
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Olive oil cooking spray
- Lemon wedges and tartar sauce (for serving)
How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Patties
Start by spraying the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray.
Add the salmon, egg, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley to a large bowl. Mix until everything is well combined.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties. Place them into the air fryer basket and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
Cook on the air fry setting at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until the patties are golden brown and fully cooked. No preheating is required.
Serve hot with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, and enjoy.
Helpful Tips
- Remove bones and skin from canned salmon for smoother texture
- Lightly spray the patties for extra crispiness
- Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best results
- Pair with salad, roasted veggies, or coleslaw for a complete mealAir Fryer Salmon Patties
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Ingredients
- 14.75 oz canned salmon
- 1 large egg
- 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
- ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp dried dill
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Lemon wedges and tartar sauce, for serving
- Instructions
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine salmon, egg, mayonnaise, panko, lemon juice, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
- Divide the mixture and form into 4 patties.
- Place patties in the air fryer basket and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Cook at 390°F for 10–12 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve with lemon wedges and tartar sauce.
