Flavorful Salmon Patties Recipe with Perfect Lemon Garlic Sauce

Posted on November 8, 2025

The crisp sizzle of salmon patties hitting the hot pan, combined with the tangy zing of lemon garlic sauce, is pure magic. This recipe has been my go-to for years, whether I’m hosting a casual dinner or just need a quick weeknight meal that feels fancy. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, these flavorful salmon patties are packed with protein, omega-3s, and a whole lot of taste. Pair them with the creamy, zesty lemon garlic sauce, and you’ve got yourself a dish that’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them on repeat!

I first stumbled upon the idea of salmon patties when I needed a budget-friendly way to enjoy seafood without breaking the bank. Canned salmon was the answer, and honestly, I was skeptical at first. But after testing and tweaking this recipe for weeks, I can confidently say it’s one of my favorites. These salmon patties are crispy on the outside, tender and moist on the inside, and perfectly complemented by the lemon garlic sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: You can whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your pantry or fridge—no special shopping trips required!
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love these crispy patties and the creamy sauce.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even tuck them into a sandwich or wrap.
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of the golden-brown patties with the tangy lemon garlic sauce is a flavor explosion.

Unlike other salmon patty recipes, this one has a secret ingredient that takes it to the next level: a touch of Dijon mustard. It adds an irresistible depth of flavor that complements the salmon perfectly. Plus, the lemon garlic sauce is creamy and refreshing, balancing the richness of the patties beautifully. It’s the perfect recipe for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salmon Patties:

1 can (14 ounces) of salmon, drained and flaked
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adds flavor depth)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:

1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients are incredibly versatile. For example, you can swap breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or use green onions instead of regular onions for a milder flavor. Make it your own!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons and cups
Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
Spatula (for flipping patties)
Microplane or grater (for lemon zest)
Whisk (for the sauce)

If you don’t own a non-stick skillet, a well-seasoned cast-iron pan works beautifully for frying these patties. I recommend using silicone spatulas—they’re gentle on your cookware and make flipping easy!

Preparation Method

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, egg, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Using clean hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into 6-8 equal-sized patties. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds together.
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add about 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip them, being careful not to break them.
While the patties are cooking, prepare the lemon garlic sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
Serve the warm salmon patties with the lemon garlic sauce on the side or drizzled on top. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your salmon patties turn out perfectly every time:

Drain the salmon: Don’t skip this step! Too much liquid in the salmon can make your patties fall apart.
Chill the mixture: If your patties are too soft to shape, pop the mixture into the fridge for 20-30 minutes before forming them.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the patties enough space to crisp up evenly. Fry them in batches if needed.
Adjust the heat: Keep the heat at medium to ensure the patties cook evenly without burning.
Sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more lemon juice to thin it out.

From my personal experience, the key to crispy yet tender salmon patties is a hot pan and a touch of patience. Let them cook undisturbed before flipping!

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to customize this recipe:

Low-Carb Option: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the patty mixture.
Herbaceous Twist: Use dill instead of parsley for a fresh, tangy flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Canned Tuna Substitute: If you don’t have salmon, canned tuna works surprisingly well in this recipe!

One variation I’ve tried is adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the patties for a subtle smoky flavor—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to make the most of your salmon patties:

Serving: Serve the patties warm with the lemon garlic sauce on the side or drizzled on top. Pair them with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.
Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon slices for a pop of color.
Storage: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes per side.
Reheating: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

The flavors actually deepen overnight, so leftovers are just as tasty (if not better) the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These salmon patties are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:

Calories: Approximately 220 per patty (without sauce).
Protein: High in protein, thanks to the salmon and egg.
Omega-3s: Salmon is a fantastic source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Low-Carb: With simple adjustments, this recipe can be made keto-friendly.
Dietary Considerations: Gluten-free and dairy-free options are easy to implement.

Plus, salmon is an excellent choice for those looking to support brain health and reduce inflammation. It’s pure comfort food with a healthy twist!

Conclusion

If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, easy, and versatile meal, these salmon patties with lemon garlic sauce are an absolute must-try. I love how adaptable they are—you can tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs or simply to use what you’ve got on hand. The crispy patties and tangy sauce come together like a dream, creating a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Give this recipe a shot, and let me know how you made it your own. Snap a picture, leave a comment, or share it with your friends—it’s always fun seeing how others enjoy this favorite of mine. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Yes! Cook and flake fresh salmon before using it in the recipe. It’ll taste even fresher!

How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to drain the salmon well and add enough breadcrumbs or binding ingredients. Chilling the mixture before shaping also helps.

Can I make these salmon patties dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free mayo and swap sour cream with a plant-based yogurt for the sauce.

What’s the best way to reheat salmon patties?

Warm them in a skillet or oven for the best texture. Avoid microwaving, as they can become soggy.

Can I make the lemon garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

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