If you’re on the lookout for a delicious, healthy, and fuss-free meal, this Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe is your new best friend. I absolutely love how these patties come out golden and crispy on the outside with that tender, savory salmon flavor inside. Plus, baking them means less oil and mess compared to frying, which is a huge win in my kitchen! Stick around, because I’m sharing all my tips so you can nail this recipe the very first time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Light: Baked instead of fried, so it’s easier on the calories but still packed with flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can use fresh or canned salmon, making it super convenient and budget-friendly.
- Delicious Flavor Combo: The fresh dill and parmesan add a bright, tangy twist that takes the patties to another level.
- Easy to Prepare: Quick assembly and straightforward baking make this a weeknight winner for busy cooks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When I first tried this Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe, I was surprised by how simple ingredients come together to deliver such satisfying results. Each element brings something special, whether it’s texture, flavor, or moisture, so don’t skip on fresh herbs and good parmesan if you can help it!
- Panko breadcrumbs: These are lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs, which I find perfect for keeping the patties crisp without getting soggy.
- Small onion: Grated onion releases juices that keep the patties moist and tender. Using a grater here is a game-changer!
- Garlic clove: A little punch of garlic adds depth without overpowering the salmon flavor.
- Cooked fresh salmon or canned salmon: Both work beautifully; canned salmon is a great time-saver and budget-friendly option.
- Shallots/scallions/green onions: I love the mild oniony freshness these bring. Use whatever you have!
- Fresh dill: Dill and salmon are like best friends – the herb brightens every bite. If fresh isn’t an option, dried dill will do.
- Eggs: They’re the binder that holds everything together, so don’t skip them.
- Parmesan cheese: This adds a savory, nutty flavor that ups the umami factor significantly.
- Salt and pepper: Simple but essential for seasoning.
- Vegetable oil and oil spray: For coating the tray and a light mist on the patties to help with baking and crispiness.
Variations
One thing I love about this Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe is how easily you can tweak it based on what you have or prefer. I often change up the herbs or add a little spice, so don’t hesitate to personalize it!
- Herb swaps: I once used fresh tarragon and parsley with great results – really fresh flavor!
- Spicy kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives a warm depth that wakes up the taste buds.
- Gluten-free option: Swap panko breadcrumbs for crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour, and it still turns out fantastic.
- Cheesy variations: Swap parmesan for pecorino romano or add a bit of sharp cheddar for a different cheese vibe.
How to Make Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the flavorful breadcrumb mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (430°F) or 200°C if you have a fan oven. Place your panko breadcrumbs in a bowl and grate the small onion directly over them — all those juices will soak into the breadcrumbs and keep the patties from drying out. Mix this well to ensure every crumb is light and flavorful before adding the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix in the aromatics and binders
Stir in the finely minced garlic, sliced shallots or green onions, chopped dill, eggs, and grated parmesan. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper here. Mixing all these flavors before adding the salmon gives you a juicy, tender base for your patties.
Step 3: Gently fold in the salmon
Now for the star: add your cooked or canned salmon. The trick here is to be gentle. I like to fold it in slowly, keeping nice flakes intact rather than smashing everything into a paste. This gives the patties a wonderful texture that breaks apart beautifully when you bite in.
Step 4: Shape and prepare for baking
Using a 1/4 cup measure or a level ice cream scoop, form round patties about 1.5 cm (or 2/3 inch) thick and place them aside. Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet! Drizzle vegetable oil all over a baking tray, pop it in the oven for 2 minutes to warm the oil, then tip and spread it around. Place patties on the tray without pressing them down — this helps them keep their shape and prevents sticking. Give each patty a quick spritz of oil spray.
Step 5: Bake until golden and crispy
Bake the patties for 15 minutes, then carefully flip them over (spray again with oil) and bake for another 5 minutes. The result? Beautifully crisp, golden patties with a moist and flavorful center. Serve immediately with your favorite dip or side.
Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe
- Keep the salmon chunky: Fold the salmon in gently to maintain flaky texture instead of a salmon mush.
- Preheat the oiled baking tray: Warming the tray with oil helps the patties crisp up beautifully without sticking.
- Don’t over-pack the patties: Lightly pack them for a tender bite and easier flipping.
- Use fresh dill when possible: I noticed the fresh herb keeps the flavor brighter and more aromatic, making a big difference.
How to Serve Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, I like to keep it simple but fresh — a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt is my go-to because it cools and complements the flavors beautifully. I also sprinkle some extra fresh dill on top for that eye-catching green pop and an extra burst of herbaceous aroma.
Side Dishes
One of my favorite combos with these salmon patties is cauliflower purée and a tangy yogurt slaw. The softness and mild flavor of cauliflower balances the patties perfectly, while the slaw adds crunchy brightness. You’ll find your family goes crazy for this combination on busy weeknights.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I’ve served these patties as mini sliders, nestled in soft buns with a spread of dill mayo and crisp lettuce. It’s a fun twist that everyone loves, especially when you want to impress guests without much stress in the kitchen.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When I make these salmon patties in advance, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They hold up really well and keep their flavor without drying out, which makes lunchtime just as enjoyable as dinnertime.
Freezing
I’ve frozen these patties successfully too! Freeze them flat on a parchment-lined tray first, then transfer to a freezer bag. That way, you can thaw and bake just what you need — a lifesaver for meal prep and busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, I pop the patties into a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway. This helps restore that crispiness without drying them out like a microwave would.
FAQs
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Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for this Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned salmon works wonderfully well here. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing so your patties don’t turn soggy. Using canned salmon makes this recipe super quick and budget-friendly too.
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How do I keep the patties from falling apart while baking?
The key is the eggs and breadcrumbs acting as binders. Also, don’t mash the salmon too much — fold it in gently to keep flakes intact. Finally, preheating your oiled tray and not pressing the patties down on the tray help maintain their shape during baking.
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Can I make these patties gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
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What can I serve with Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan?
I highly recommend light sides like cauliflower purée, yogurt slaw, or a crisp green salad. A simple dollop of sour cream or lemony yogurt dip brings everything together perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s just that satisfying blend of ease, flavor, and healthfulness. I love sharing it with friends who are amazed at how something so simple can taste so indulgent. Give it a try and let these patties win their place in your recipe rotation — you won’t regret it!
PrintBaked Salmon Patties with Dill and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 12 patties)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and healthy salmon patties made with cooked or canned salmon, fresh herbs, and panko breadcrumbs. These golden, crispy patties are baked in the oven for a hands-off, lower-fat alternative to frying, perfect as a main dish or appetizer.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion (or 1/2 large), grated
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 400 g / 14 oz cooked fresh salmon OR canned red or pink salmon, drained
- 2 shallots / scallions / green onions, finely sliced
- 1/3 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped (or 1 tsp dried herbs of choice)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup parmesan, grated or shredded
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set the oven to 220°C / 430°F (standard) or 200°C fan.
- Prepare breadcrumb mixture: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a bowl. Grate the onion over the breadcrumbs to include the juices and mix well to ensure the breadcrumbs are fully moistened.
- Add remaining ingredients except salmon: To the breadcrumb and onion mixture, add the minced garlic, sliced shallots, chopped dill, eggs, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Incorporate salmon: Gently fold in the salmon, keeping flakes intact rather than mashing into tiny pieces for better texture.
- Form patties: Using a 1/4 cup scoop (level and packed), shape the mixture into round patties about 1.5 cm (2/3 inch) thick. Set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the baking tray: Drizzle the vegetable oil evenly over a baking tray. Heat the tray in the oven for 2 minutes until oil is hot and spreads across the surface. Tilt the tray if needed for an even coat.
- Arrange patties on tray: Place the patties on the oiled tray without pressing them down to avoid sticking. Spray the top of the patties lightly with oil spray.
- Bake patties: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then flip each patty carefully, spray tops again with oil spray, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Serve warm with sour cream or yoghurt for dipping and garnish with extra fresh dill as desired. Ideal with healthy sides like cauliflower puree and yoghurt slaw.
Notes
- Use either fresh cooked salmon or canned salmon for convenience and flavor variety.
- Baking rather than frying makes these patties healthier and reduces cleanup.
- The recipe makes approximately 12 patties, perfect for 4 servings.
- These patties have a golden crunchy crust and a moist, savory interior with fresh herb flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 187 g
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 27 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg