Delicious Salmon Patties with Easy Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

Posted on August 2, 2025

The first bite of a perfectly cooked salmon patty, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, is something special. When you pair that with a creamy lemon garlic sauce, you’re in for a treat! These salmon patties are not just delicious; they’re a family favorite that’s super quick to throw together. I remember the first time I made them for dinner—it was a last-minute decision, and I couldn’t believe how much everyone loved them! Seriously, you’ve got to try this recipe.

Salmon is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Plus, with the zesty and rich flavors of the creamy lemon garlic sauce, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, they’ll be asking for the recipe. Trust me; this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

These salmon patties are versatile too! You can serve them with a fresh salad, over a bed of rice, or even in a sandwich. They’re perfect for any occasion, and you can whip them up in no time. So, let’s dive in and make some delicious salmon patties with creamy lemon garlic sauce!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, saving you a trip to the grocery store!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or need a quick lunch, these salmon patties fit the bill.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re always a hit with both kids and adults—trust me; you’ll get rave reviews!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of flaky salmon and the creamy lemon garlic sauce is simply divine.

What makes this recipe stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The salmon is fresh and flaky, while the breadcrumbs give the patties that satisfying crunch. And then there’s the creamy lemon garlic sauce that takes it all to the next level! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made these salmon patties and had guests rave about them. It’s comfort food at its finest, but healthier! You’ll find yourself closing your eyes and savoring every bite.

This dish isn’t just about flavor; it’s about the memories you’ll create while cooking and sharing it with loved ones. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you need:

For the Salmon Patties:
- 2 cans (6 oz each) of salmon, drained and flaked (or 1 lb fresh salmon, cooked and flaked)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to swap ingredients or make substitutions! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. If you’re looking to cut down on calories, consider using light mayonnaise or yogurt. And don’t be afraid to play around with spices—add some cayenne pepper for a kick or fresh herbs for added freshness!

Equipment Needed

To whip up these delicious salmon patties, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
Frying pan or skillet for cooking
Spatula for flipping the patties
Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
Whisk or fork to beat the egg

If you don’t have a non-stick frying pan, a regular skillet will work just fine—just make sure to use a little extra oil to prevent sticking. And if you have a food processor, you can use it to quickly chop the green onions or even mix the salmon and ingredients together for a smoother consistency!

Preparation Method

Let’s get down to business! Follow these easy steps to make your salmon patties:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined. You want a mixture that holds together but isn’t too wet.
Form the salmon mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. You should get around 6-8 patties, depending on how big you make them.
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. You may need to do this in batches.
Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. If you’re unsure, you can use a spatula to gently lift one and check the color.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil while you prepare the sauce.
For the creamy lemon garlic sauce, simply combine the sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
Serve the salmon patties hot, drizzled with the creamy lemon garlic sauce. Enjoy!

Pro tip: If you want to make the patties ahead of time, you can refrigerate them for up to an hour before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better while frying.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true cooking tips to ensure your salmon patties turn out perfectly:

Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
Chill Before Cooking: If you have time, chill the patties for 30 minutes before frying. This helps them stay together while cooking.
Use the Right Heat: If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Medium heat is best for even cooking.
Test One First: Fry one patty first to check the seasoning and cooking time, then adjust as needed.
Keep it Crispy: If you want extra crispy patties, try coating them in additional breadcrumbs before frying.

I’ve had my fair share of cooking mishaps, and trust me, the key to success is preparation and patience. Don’t rush the frying process; let them get that beautiful golden color!

Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to customize your salmon patties with these fun variations:

Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and scallions for an Asian twist. Serve with a sesame dipping sauce.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute canned chickpeas for salmon to make chickpea patties. Just mash them up and follow the same recipe!

Experiment with these variations, and you might just discover your new favorite version!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

To serve your salmon patties, I recommend plating them hot with a generous drizzle of creamy lemon garlic sauce. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or crispy roasted vegetables!

For storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the uncooked patties, separated by parchment paper, for up to a month. Just thaw and cook them when you’re ready!

When reheating, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The flavors will continue to develop, making them even more delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

These salmon patties are not just tasty; they’re also packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick look at what you’re getting:

High in protein: Salmon is a fantastic source of lean protein.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Great for heart health and brain function.
Vitamins and Minerals: Loaded with B vitamins, selenium, and potassium.

This recipe is also quite flexible. You can make it gluten-free or low-carb by adjusting the breadcrumbs. Just keep in mind any potential allergens like fish or dairy if you’re serving guests!

Conclusion

These delicious salmon patties with creamy lemon garlic sauce are worth trying! They’re quick, easy, and bursting with flavor, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion. I love how they bring everyone together around the dinner table, and I’m sure you will too!

Don’t forget to customize your patties based on your preferences—experimenting is half the fun! I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so drop a comment or share your variations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned? Yes! Just cook and flake the fresh salmon before using it in the recipe.
How can I make these patties gluten-free? Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What can I serve with salmon patties? They pair well with salads, rice, or even inside a sandwich or wrap!
How do I store leftovers? Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying? Yes, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Pin This Recipe!