Air Fryer Salmon Patties: Classic and Burgers

There’s something about salmon patties that always feels a little nostalgic to me. I still remember standing on a stool in my dad’s kitchen, watching him mix canned salmon with breadcrumbs and a squeeze of lemon, shaping patties that filled the whole house with the scent of the sea.

Today, I give that memory a modern twist with the air fryer, less oil, less mess, and still all the golden crisp you’d hope for.

In this post, you’ll find two distinct recipes. The classic budget-friendly patty is made with canned salmon, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and simple seasonings, quick, nostalgic, and perfect for busy weeknights. The juicy, restaurant-quality salmon burger is made with fresh fillets for those moments when you want something more elevated and indulgent.

Both come together in minutes and deliver that perfectly golden exterior and tender, flaky interior. Whether you’re cooking on a budget or splurging on fresh salmon, the air fryer method works beautifully for both versions.

Scroll straight to the Jump to Recipe button below, or take a peek through the Table of Contents to see all the tips and variations waiting for you.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salmon Patties

• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses canned salmon, making it affordable without sacrificing flavor.
• Less Mess, Less Oil – The air fryer gives a crispy finish without pan-frying or deep oil.
• Flavorful & Versatile – Fresh herbs, mustard, and lemon juice add a bright coastal taste.
• Family-Friendly – Perfect as a light dinner, sandwich filling, or even as salmon sliders.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – You can shape the patties ahead of time and cook when ready.

And here’s a fun little bonus: the aroma of these patties cooking in the air fryer might just remind you of a seaside kitchen.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (14–15 oz) can salmon – drained and flaked (you can remove the skin and bones if you prefer, though they’re edible and add extra nutrients).
• 1 large egg – helps bind the patties together.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – panko gives the patties a light, crisp texture, but regular breadcrumbs work too.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise – keeps the patties moist and tender.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – adds a tangy, savory kick.
• 2 tablespoons onion – finely minced for flavor and a little crunch.
• 1 garlic clove – minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder if you prefer).
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill – chopped, for a fresh herb flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the patties and balances the richness of salmon.
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or paprika – optional, but adds that classic coastal flavor.
• Salt & black pepper – to taste.
• Olive oil spray – to lightly coat the patties before air frying for golden crispness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Drain the canned salmon and place it in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the salmon, breaking it into small pieces. If you prefer, remove any skin and bones, though they are soft and edible.

Step 2: Add the Flavorings and Binders

Mix in the egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, onion, garlic, parsley (or dill), lemon juice, and seasoning. Stir until everything is evenly combined. The mixture should be moist but able to hold its shape when pressed together.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Scoop about 1/3 cup of the mixture and form it into a patty about 1-inch thick. Repeat with the rest of the mixture. You should get around 6 patties. Place them on a plate or tray.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil to help prevent sticking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Patties

Arrange the salmon patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the patties from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious with tartar sauce, a fresh salad, or tucked into soft buns as salmon burgers.

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Quick Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

While the classic patty uses canned salmon for convenience, this burger version uses fresh salmon for a juicier, steak-like texture. It’s crisp on the outside, tender inside, and packed with coastal flavor. Best of all, no oil splatter or grill required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon Patties

• 1 pound fresh salmon fillets (skinless) – chopped finely or pulsed; using fresh salmon gives a rich flavor and better texture than canned.
• 1 large egg – binds the mixture so the patties stay together in the air fryer.
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs or panko – adds structure and that light crunch.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise – keeps the patties moist and tender.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – adds tang and depth to balance the richness of the salmon.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the flavor and helps neutralize any fishiness.
• 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped – for a mild bite and freshness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped – adds herby fragrance.
• 1 garlic clove, minced – for a savory backbone that ties everything together.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt – enhances natural salmon flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle warmth.

Optional Add-Ins (for extra flavor)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – adds umami depth.
• 1 tablespoon finely diced red bell pepper – adds sweetness and color.
• A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper – for a gentle smoky heat.

For Serving

• 4 burger buns, toasted – a sturdy base for your salmon patties.
• Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and red onion rings – add crunch and freshness.
• Tartar sauce, remoulade, or lemon aioli – creamy finishes that complement the fish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by cutting your fresh, skinless salmon into small cubes (about ¼ inch). For the best texture, pulse half of it in a food processor until it forms a coarse paste, then mix it with the remaining chopped pieces. This combination gives the burgers a sturdy base while keeping them flaky and juicy.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the salmon with the egg, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is well distributed but not mushy. The mixture should hold its shape when pressed together but still look slightly coarse.

If you like a little heat or extra flavor, now’s the time to add the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, or red bell pepper.

Step 3: Form and Chill the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into round patties about ¾ inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or tray.
Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes, this quick chill helps the patties firm up so they don’t fall apart in the air fryer.

Step 4: Preheat and Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange the patties in a single layer, leaving space between each one for even air circulation.

Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F / 63°C).

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Toast your buns while the salmon patties rest for a minute or two. Then build your burger:
Start with sauce on the bottom bun, add lettuce, tomato, your salmon patty, and finish with onions or pickles. Spread a bit more sauce on the top bun and gently press to hold everything together.

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Serving Suggestions

These salmon patties are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

• Fresh Salad – Serve the patties over a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a light, refreshing plate. A bright seafood salad like this creamy tuna macaroni salad is also a great match.
• Classic Seafood Sides – Pair with roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or even some buttery rice. If you’d like something cozy, a bowl of Maryland crab soup makes a hearty companion.
• With a Sauce or Dip – A tangy tartar sauce or lemon-garlic aioli works beautifully. You can also whip up this simple lemon garlic aioli to serve on the side.
• In a Sandwich – Tuck the patties into burger buns or slider rolls with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of sauce for salmon burgers. For something unique, try them alongside a fun dish like our tuna salad sandwich.
• Seafood Feast – Serve them as part of a larger spread with other easy seafood recipes, such as crispy air fryer shrimp or quick air fryer scallops.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

These patties store well and can easily be made ahead for busy days. Here’s a quick guide:

Method	How to Store	How Long	Reheating Tips
Refrigerator	Place cooked patties in an airtight container with parchment between layers.	3 days	Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes, or until heated through.
Freezer	Freeze cooked or uncooked patties on a tray until solid, then transfer to a bag.	2–3 months	Cook directly from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F, adding 2–3 minutes to cook time.
Make-Ahead	Shape patties and refrigerate uncooked, covered, until ready to air fry.	Up to 24 hours	Air fry as directed in the recipe, adding 1 extra minute if very cold.

Pro tip: If freezing uncooked patties, place a square of parchment paper between each one so they don’t stick together.

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FAQs About Air Fryer Salmon Patties

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A Tasty Finish

Whether you choose the nostalgic ease of canned salmon patties or the fresh, juicy bite of air fryer salmon burgers, you’ve got a winning meal in under 30 minutes. Both recipes prove that you don’t need a deep fryer to get that satisfying crunch and golden finish.

Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauce, maybe a squeeze of lemon, and enjoy a healthy, protein-packed dinner that feels like a treat.

Happy cooking!