Crispy & Healthy Salmon Patties in Air Fryer Recipe

Looking for a delicious, protein-packed, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick lunch? This salmon patties in air fryer recipe is the answer! Whether you’re using canned salmon or leftover cooked fillets, these patties are crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with flavor—without the excess oil from pan-frying. With minimal ingredients and only a few steps, this dish fits seamlessly into your healthy eating routine. Plus, thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy the golden crispiness guilt-free.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect air fryer salmon patties—from prep time and ingredients to step-by-step instructions, nutrition facts, and more.

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🕒 Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Active Time (Cooking Time): 10 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories: Approx. 210 per patty

• Cuisine: American

• Course: Main Course / Appetizer

• Skill Level: Easy

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🧾 Ingredients:

• 1 can (14.75 oz) pink salmon, drained and flaked (or 2 cooked salmon fillets, crumbled)

• 1 large egg

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular) or almond flour (for low-carb)

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions

• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (optional for crunch)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• Olive oil spray (for air fryer)

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🍴 Equipment Needed:

• Air fryer (any brand; basket or tray style)

• Mixing bowl

• Fork or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Plate or tray for shaping patties

• Cooking spray

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🥣 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with the egg, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), mayo, mustard, lemon juice, green onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well using a fork or your hands until everything is incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape them into round patties about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. You can make smaller patties for appetizers or sliders.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispier texture.

Step 4: Spray and Place

Lightly spray the air fryer basket or tray with olive oil. Carefully place the salmon patties in a single layer without overlapping. Lightly spray the tops of the patties with oil too.

Step 5: Cook the Patties

Air fry the salmon patties for 8–10 minutes, flipping them halfway through at the 5-minute mark. Cook until the patties are golden brown and crispy on the outside. If using fresh salmon, ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the patties and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows them to firm up and enhances the texture.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with: a side salad, roasted veggies, coleslaw, or on a bun as a salmon burger.

• Dipping sauces: tartar sauce, sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or lemon-yogurt dip.

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🧠 Tips and Variations:

• Low-carb/Keto version: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.

• Make ahead: Shape patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.

• Freeze for later: Freeze uncooked or cooked patties with parchment between layers. Reheat from frozen in air fryer at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.

• Add herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives add a nice herby kick.

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🥗 Nutrition (Per Patty):

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on brands and exact quantities used.

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🔁 Why Make Salmon Patties in Air Fryer?

The air fryer is a game changer for making salmon patties:

• Less oil = healthier

• Even browning without flipping over a hot stove

• Quick cooking – done in under 10 minutes

• No mess – no oily splatters or deep frying

• Great texture – crispy outside, moist inside

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or serving guests with minimal effort!

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Final Thoughts

This salmon patties in air fryer recipe is everything you want in a quick and healthy meal—simple, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With the ease of the air fryer and minimal ingredients, these patties will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for new high-protein, low-carb meal ideas, you’ll love the ease and versatility of this dish.

Whip up a batch today and enjoy a crisp, golden, protein-rich delight that’s good for the body and soul!