Name: Salmon Cakes Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning; ¾ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1¼ lb skinless salmon fillet, finely diced into ¼-inch pieces; 1¼ cups panko bread crumbs, divided; ¼ cup thinly sliced scallions (from 3 to 4 scallions, light and dark green parts); ⅓ cup finely diced celery (from 2 stalks); 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill; ½ cup vegetable oil; Salad greens with vinaigrette; Tartar sauce; Lemon wedges

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 59 reviews

Let me share with you one of my all-time favorites: this delightful Salmon Cakes Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of tender, flaky salmon mixed with crisp, golden breadcrumbs and fresh herbs, creating a dish that feels both comforting and a little fancy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together, these salmon cakes come together quickly, bursting with flavors and a wonderful texture that keeps you coming back for more. Once you try this Salmon Cakes Recipe, it might just become your go-to seafood treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding four main layers of chopped ingredients. The largest layer is diced light orange salmon placed in the center front of the bowl. To the left of the salmon are small pale green celery pieces, while to the right are chopped dark green scallions. At the front edge of the salmon is a small heap of finely chopped dark green dill. Underneath these layers is a creamy sauce with a beige color, partially visible around the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but absolutely essential to bring out the best in your salmon cakes. Each plays a special role, whether it’s the tangy zing of lemon juice, the crunch of panko breadcrumbs, or the fresh brightness of dill and scallions.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture together while keeping the cakes moist.
Fresh lemon juice: Offers a refreshing citrus brightness that lifts the whole dish.
Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that enhances flavor complexity without overpowering.
Old Bay seasoning: Classic seafood spice blend that adds a kick of savory warmth.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
Black pepper: Freshly ground for a gentle heat and aromatic note.
Skinless salmon fillet: The star of the show, finely diced into small pieces for perfect texture.
Panko bread crumbs: Divided to mix in and coat the cakes for a light, crispy crust.
Scallions: Thinly sliced for a mild onion flavor and a splash of green color.
Celery: Finely diced to add crunch and a fresh, vegetal balance.
Fresh dill: Adds a fragrant herbal note that pairs beautifully with salmon.
Vegetable oil: For frying and creating that irresistible golden crust.
Salad greens, tartar sauce, lemon wedges: Perfect accompaniments to make your meal complete and vibrant.

How to Make Salmon Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Flavors

Start by whisking together mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This mix acts like the flavor base and the perfect binder for the salmon. Once smooth, gently fold in your finely diced salmon fillet, ¼ cup of panko for moisture balance, scallions, celery, and dill, mixing just until everything is evenly combined. It’s important not to overwork the mixture to maintain a delightful texture in your salmon cakes.

Step 2: Shape and Coat

Now the fun begins. Using a ⅓-cup measure, scoop out the salmon mixture and form into compact cakes about an inch thick. Place them into the remaining 1 cup of panko crumbs, gently turning each cake to coat completely. This outer crumb coating is what gives your salmon cakes that wonderful golden crunch when pan-fried. Don’t rush this step, as a good coating makes all the difference!

Step 3: Cook to Perfection

Heat your vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. It’s important to get the oil hot enough so the cakes crisp beautifully rather than absorb excess oil. Place half of your salmon cakes in the pan, cooking without disturbance for about 2 minutes or until the bottoms turn a stunning golden brown. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 2 minutes. If you notice any rapid browning, simply reduce the heat slightly. Transfer cooked cakes to a paper towel–lined plate to drain while you cook the remaining batch.

How to Serve Salmon Cakes Recipe

There is a white round plate with six golden brown crispy patties stacked in two layers in the center; the patties have a rough texture with small bits of herbs and vegetables visible. To the bottom left of the plate, a white bowl contains a creamy white sauce with green herbs, and a spoon rests inside. At the bottom right, there is a white bowl filled with fresh green leafy lettuce and some small red radishes. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface with three glasses of a light yellow drink placed to the right side of the frame. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh dill, a squeeze of lemon wedge, and a dollop of tartar sauce can turn your salmon cakes into a feast for the senses. The fresh herbs and acidity perfectly brighten the richness of the cakes, making each bite balanced and exciting.

Side Dishes

Salad greens tossed with a tangy vinaigrette complement the salmon cakes wonderfully, providing a fresh contrast and light crunch. Roasted or steamed vegetables, like asparagus or green beans, also pair beautifully for a wholesome meal. For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa salad work like a charm.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try turning your salmon cakes into sliders with soft buns, crisp lettuce, and your favorite sauces. They also make excellent appetizers served with toothpicks and a variety of dips. Another idea is to place the salmon cakes over a bed of creamy avocado or cucumber salad for a fresh, elegant plate perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra salmon cakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within a couple of days. Their flavors deepen slightly, and the cakes keep moist with just a quick reheat.

Freezing

This Salmon Cakes Recipe is freezer-friendly which makes meal prepping fantastic. After cooking and cooling, place the cakes on a foil-lined baking sheet, freeze until solid for about an hour, then wrap individually in plastic before storing all together in a freezer bag. They keep well up to three months, ready to be defrosted in the fridge when you need a quick, delicious meal.

Reheating

To bring your salmon cakes back to their crispy glory, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes or until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving to keep that wonderful texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh salmon offers a nicer texture, canned salmon can be a convenient substitute. Just be sure to drain it well and break it into small pieces before mixing to maintain the right consistency for your cakes.

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine, though panko gives a lighter, crunchier texture. For a gluten-free option, try crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.

How do I prevent salmon cakes from falling apart?

Make sure not to overmix your ingredients and handle the cakes gently when shaping and flipping. The combination of mayonnaise and breadcrumbs is vital to keeping the cakes together, so don’t skip those!

Can these salmon cakes be baked instead of fried?

Yes! For a lighter version, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the salmon cakes on a lined baking sheet for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

What’s the best sauce to serve with these salmon cakes?

Tartar sauce is a classic, but you can also try a lemon aioli, a tangy yogurt-dill sauce, or even a spicy remoulade to add a delicious punch to your salmon cakes.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Salmon Cakes Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels both luxurious and comforting, perfect for any occasion. The balance of fresh herbs, tender salmon, and crunchy coating makes every bite an absolute joy. Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, sharing it with friends and family who will surely ask for seconds. Happy cooking and enjoy every wonderful bite!

Salmon Cakes Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need