How to Cook Salmon Patties in Air Fryer?

If you’re wondering how to cook salmon patties in air fryer, you’ve discovered one of the easiest ways to make crispy, golden salmon cakes without the mess of traditional frying. Air fryer salmon patties cook in just 8-12 minutes at 375-400°F, delivering restaurant-quality results with a fraction of the oil and cleanup.

Whether you’re using canned salmon or leftover cooked fish, air frying transforms simple ingredients into delicious patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. This method eliminates the greasy splatter of pan-frying while achieving that perfect golden-brown crust everyone loves.

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Why Air Fryer Salmon Patties Are Game-Changing

Air fryer salmon cakes have revolutionized how home cooks prepare this classic dish. Here’s why this method stands out:

Key advantages:

No greasy mess: Skip the splattered stovetop and lingering fish smell
Crispy perfection: Hot air circulation creates a golden, crunchy exterior
Healthier cooking: Uses minimal oil compared to traditional frying
Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish
Consistent results: Even cooking without flipping or constant monitoring
Budget-friendly: Canned salmon makes this an affordable protein option
Meal prep ready: Make batches ahead and freeze for later

The air fryer’s compact cooking chamber circulates hot air rapidly around the salmon patties, creating that coveted crispy texture while keeping the interior moist and flaky—no deep fryer required.

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon Patties

The beauty of salmon patties lies in their simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need for perfect air fryer salmon cakes:

Core ingredients:

Canned or cooked salmon (12-15 oz): Pink salmon works beautifully and is budget-friendly. You can also use leftover cooked salmon, red salmon, or even fresh salmon that’s been cooked and flaked.
Egg (1-2 large): Acts as the binder to hold patties together
Breadcrumbs (1/2-3/4 cup): Panko creates extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs, pork rinds (for keto), or even matzo meal work well
Mayonnaise (2-3 tablespoons): Adds moisture and richness; can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream
Aromatics: Green onion, red onion, or shallots for flavor
Fresh herbs: Dill, parsley, or chives complement salmon perfectly
Seasonings: Lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper

Optional flavor boosters:

Old Bay seasoning for classic seafood flavor
Dijon mustard for tang
Red bell pepper for color and sweetness
Cajun seasoning for heat
Fresh lemon zest for brightness

The key to successful salmon patties is getting the right ratio of binders (egg and breadcrumbs) to salmon. Too much binder makes them heavy; too little causes them to fall apart.

How to Cook Salmon Patties in Air Fryer: Step-by-Step

Making air fryer salmon patties is straightforward, but a few key techniques ensure perfect results every time.

Preparation (10 minutes):

Step 1: Prepare the salmon If using canned salmon, drain it thoroughly and remove any bones or skin (though both are edible and nutritious). For a smoother texture, pick through carefully. If using cooked salmon, flake it into small pieces with a fork.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients In a large bowl, combine the salmon, egg, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, aromatics, herbs, and seasonings. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated but not overmixed. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too wet or too dry.

Pro tip: If the mixture seems too wet, add more breadcrumbs 1 tablespoon at a time. If it’s too dry, add a splash of mayo or a beaten egg.

Step 3: Chill the mixture (optional but recommended) For best results, freeze the salmon mixture for 10 minutes or refrigerate for 30 minutes. This helps the patties hold together better during cooking.

Step 4: Form the patties Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions. Using your hands, form each portion into a firm, compact patty about 3/4 inch thick. Press them together tightly—this is crucial for preventing crumbling.

Cooking (8-12 minutes):

Step 5: Prepare the air fryer Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray. Avoid vegetable oil spray as it can leave residue on your air fryer basket over time. You can also line the basket with parchment paper designed for air fryers.

Step 6: Add the patties Place salmon patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one for air circulation. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed.

Step 7: Spray the tops Lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking oil. This helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.

Step 8: Air fry to perfection Cook at 375-400°F for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through (though flipping is optional—many cooks skip this step with good results). The patties are done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 9: Check for doneness The patties should be firm to the touch and easily hold together. Since the salmon is already cooked (whether canned or pre-cooked fresh), you’re mainly looking for heating through and achieving the right texture.

Step 10: Serve immediately Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, or your favorite sauce.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to prepare salmon in your air fryer, explore these air fryer salmon recipes for fresh inspiration and new flavor combinations.

Temperature and Timing Guide

Different air fryer models and patty sizes require slight adjustments. Here’s your complete guide:

Temperature options:

375°F: Best for tender, evenly cooked patties with less risk of over-browning
390°F: Middle ground that works for most air fryer models
400°F: Creates the crispiest exterior; watch carefully to prevent burning

Timing by patty size:

Small patties (2-2.5 inches): 8-10 minutes at 375°F
Standard patties (3-3.5 inches): 10-12 minutes at 390°F
Large patties (4+ inches): 12-14 minutes at 400°F

Batch cooking:

Cook 4 patties at a time in most standard air fryers
Add 1-2 minutes if cooking more than 4 at once
Ensure patties don’t touch for even crisping

Note: Most recipes don’t require preheating the air fryer, but if your model recommends it, preheat for 3-5 minutes.

Essential Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties Every Time

Follow these expert tips to ensure your air fryer salmon cakes turn out perfect every single time:

Before cooking:

Drain canned salmon extremely well: Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy patties. Pat dry with paper towels.
Press patties firmly: Compact, tightly formed patties hold together better than loosely packed ones.
Make them uniform: Keep all patties the same size and thickness for even cooking.
Chill before cooking: That 10-minute freeze or 30-minute refrigeration makes a significant difference in structure.

During cooking:

Don’t skip the oil spray: Even in an air fryer, a light spray helps achieve golden crispiness.
Give them space: Overcrowding restricts airflow and leads to steaming rather than crisping.
Resist peeking constantly: Opening the air fryer repeatedly releases heat and extends cooking time.
Use olive oil spray only: Vegetable oil sprays can damage air fryer baskets over time.

After cooking:

Let them rest briefly: A 1-2 minute rest helps the patties set and makes them easier to handle.
Serve immediately: Salmon patties are best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer when they’re at peak crispiness.

For meal prep:

Form uncooked patties and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags
Cook frozen patties at 375°F for 12-15 minutes (no thawing needed)
Cooked patties can be frozen for up to 3 months

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe, certain pitfalls can derail your salmon patties. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Not draining the salmon properly Wet salmon creates mushy patties that fall apart. Always drain thoroughly and pat dry, even if you think you’ve drained enough.

2. Using too much or too little binder Too much breadcrumb creates heavy, bread-heavy patties. Too little leads to crumbling. Follow the recipe ratios and adjust only if needed based on mixture texture.

3. Forming patties too loosely Loosely packed patties fall apart during cooking. Press firmly to create compact, cohesive cakes.

4. Skipping the chill time That freezing or refrigeration step isn’t optional—it’s insurance against patties falling apart. Don’t skip it, especially if you’re new to making salmon patties.

5. Overcrowding the air fryer Cramming too many patties in restricts airflow and results in soggy, unevenly cooked cakes. Cook in batches for best results.

6. Forgetting to spray with oil Even though it’s an air fryer, that light coating of oil is essential for achieving crispy, golden exteriors.

7. Overcooking Since canned salmon is pre-cooked, you’re really just heating and crisping. Overcooking dries them out and makes them tough.

Delicious Variations and Flavor Twists

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these creative variations:

Asian-inspired salmon patties:

Add ginger, sesame oil, and soy sauce
Mix in chopped water chestnuts for crunch
Serve with sweet chili sauce or sriracha mayo

Mediterranean salmon cakes:

Use fresh dill, lemon zest, and capers
Add crumbled feta cheese
Serve with tzatziki sauce

Cajun-style patties:

Season with Cajun spice blend
Add diced celery and bell peppers
Serve with remoulade sauce

Southwest salmon burgers:

Mix in corn, black beans, and cilantro
Season with cumin and chili powder
Top with avocado and chipotle mayo

Keto-friendly salmon patties:

Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour
Use full-fat mayo
Serve over salad instead of with starchy sides

What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon Patties

Complete your meal with these perfect side dishes and serving suggestions:

As a main dish:

Over mixed green salad with vinaigrette
Alongside roasted vegetables (asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts)
With cauliflower rice or quinoa for a light meal
Next to crispy air fryer potatoes or sweet potato fries
Over creamy mashed potatoes for comfort food

As a sandwich or slider:

On potato buns with tartar sauce
In lettuce wraps for low-carb option
On whole wheat buns with coleslaw
As sliders for appetizers

Sauce options:

Classic tartar sauce
Lemon dill sauce or aioli
Remoulade sauce (mayo, lemon juice, capers)
Sriracha mayo or bang bang sauce
Simple lemon wedges and fresh herbs

Side dishes:

Coleslaw (regular or Asian-style)
Pasta salad
Corn on the cob
Steamed broccoli with garlic
Cucumber tomato salad
Quinoa chickpea salad

Storing and Reheating Salmon Patties

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy leftover salmon patties or prep ahead for the week.

Refrigerator storage:

Store cooked patties in airtight container
Keep for 3-4 days maximum
Layer parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking
Bring to room temperature before reheating for best results

Freezer storage:

Uncooked patties: Freeze on baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags with parchment between layers. Store up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.
Cooked patties: Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze in freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating methods:

Air fryer (best method): 350°F for 3-5 minutes until heated through
Oven: 350°F for 10 minutes, loosely covered with foil
Microwave: 30-second intervals on 50% power (results in softer texture)
Stovetop: Low heat in lightly oiled pan for 2-3 minutes per side

Serving cold: Salmon patties are delicious cold over salads or in wraps, so don’t feel obligated to reheat if you prefer them chilled.

Using Canned vs. Fresh Salmon

Both canned and fresh cooked salmon work beautifully for air fryer patties. Here’s what to know:

Canned salmon:

Pros: Budget-friendly, convenient, already cooked, long shelf life
Cons: May contain bones and skin (though both are nutritious)
Best types: Pink salmon is most affordable; red/sockeye has richer flavor
Preparation: Drain thoroughly, remove bones/skin if desired, flake with fork

Fresh cooked salmon:

Pros: Superior flavor and texture, no bones to pick through
Cons: More expensive, requires cooking first
Best for: Using up leftover salmon from another meal
Preparation: Cool completely, flake into bite-sized pieces, remove any skin

Fresh raw salmon: While most recipes call for pre-cooked or canned salmon, you can use raw salmon. Cook it first by baking, air frying, or poaching, then cool and flake before mixing with other ingredients.

Nutritional Benefits of Salmon Patties

Air fryer salmon patties aren’t just delicious—they’re nutritious too:

Health benefits:

High in protein: 15-34g per serving depending on recipe
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids: Supports heart and brain health
Lower in calories: Air frying uses less oil than traditional methods
Good source of calcium: Especially if you keep the bones in canned salmon
Vitamin D: Important for bone health and immune function
B vitamins: Particularly B12, essential for energy

Dietary accommodations:

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour
Dairy-free: Most recipes are naturally dairy-free
Low-carb/Keto: Replace breadcrumbs with pork rinds
Paleo: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
High-protein: Already naturally high in protein

Average nutritional content per patty (varies by recipe):

Calories: 130-315
Protein: 15-34g
Fat: 4-15g
Carbs: 4-10g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make salmon patties without eggs? Yes! Use commercial egg replacer, or try 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before using.

Why are my salmon patties falling apart? This usually happens from insufficient binder (egg/breadcrumbs), not pressing them firmly enough, or skipping the chilling step. Add more breadcrumbs and make sure to refrigerate before cooking.

Do I need to flip salmon patties in the air fryer? While flipping helps ensure even browning, many cooks successfully skip this step. The circulating air cooks them evenly without flipping.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko? Absolutely! Regular breadcrumbs work fine, though panko creates a crispier texture. Italian breadcrumbs add extra flavor.

Should I remove the bones from canned salmon? It’s personal preference. The bones are soft, edible, and high in calcium. If you find the texture off-putting, remove them. Mashing them in usually makes them unnoticeable.

Can I cook frozen salmon patties in the air fryer? Yes! Cook from frozen at 375°F for 12-15 minutes without thawing. They’ll turn out great with just a few extra minutes.

What’s the best temperature for air fryer salmon patties? Most recipes use 375-400°F. Start at 375°F if you’re new to air frying salmon patties, then increase temperature if you want extra crispiness.

How do I keep salmon patties from sticking to the air fryer? Spray the basket generously with olive oil or line it with perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers.

Can I make salmon patties ahead of time? Yes! Form the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze for up to 3 months. This actually helps them hold together better.

What makes salmon patties crispy in the air fryer? The combination of panko breadcrumbs, a light oil spray, and the air fryer’s hot circulating air creates that golden, crispy exterior.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to cook salmon patties in air fryer opens up a world of quick, delicious, and healthy meal possibilities. With just 8-12 minutes of cooking time at 375-400°F, you can transform simple canned or leftover salmon into crispy, golden patties that rival any restaurant version.

The key to success lies in properly draining your salmon, forming firm patties, chilling the mixture before cooking, and not overcrowding your air fryer basket. Whether you’re making classic salmon cakes with Old Bay seasoning or experimenting with Asian or Mediterranean flavors, the air fryer delivers consistent, impressive results every time.

From busy weeknight dinners to make-ahead meal prep, air fryer salmon patties prove that healthy, budget-friendly cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Keep a few cans of salmon in your pantry, and you’ll always be prepared to whip up a satisfying meal in under 20 minutes.

So fire up that air fryer and get ready to enjoy the crispiest, most delicious salmon patties you’ve ever made—no greasy mess required!