If you’re craving something both hearty and healthy, I’ve got just the thing for you: Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe. These patties are golden, crispy on the outside, super flavorful inside, and baked—not fried—so cleanup is a breeze and you get all the satisfaction without the guilt. Whether you use fresh salmon or that trusty canned version, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Stick around—I’ll walk you through all the little tricks I’ve learned to get these salmon patties just right every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Baked, Not Fried: You get crispy patties with less oil and less mess—your kitchen will thank you.
- Fresh Dill & Parmesan Flavor: The dill adds a fresh herbaceous note, balanced perfectly by the nutty Parmesan.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or canned salmon depending on what you have on hand without compromising taste.
- Family-Friendly & Easy: Quick to mix up, bake, and serve, these patties win over even picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients here work in harmony to give you moist, flavorful salmon patties that hold together beautifully while baking. Panko breadcrumbs soak up just enough moisture from the grated onion and eggs, while fresh dill wakes up the whole dish. Pro tip: grab good-quality Parmesan and fresh dill if you can, they really make a difference!
- Panko breadcrumbs: These give a lighter texture than regular breadcrumbs—my secret to not-heavy patties.
- Small onion: Grated to release its juices, which keep the patties moist.
- Garlic clove: Finely minced so you get that subtle aromatic kick without overpowering.
- Cooked fresh or canned salmon: Either works—canned is surprisingly convenient and flavorful.
- Shallots/scallions/green onions: Add gentle sharpness and a lovely bite.
- Fresh dill: Zoned in on that herbal magic that takes these patties next-level.
- Eggs: The binders that hold it all together, trust me you want two.
- Parmesan: Adds a savory, nutty depth and helps with browning.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out every flavor.
- Vegetable oil: For drizzling on the baking sheet—it helps crisp those patties up nicely.
- Oil spray: For a light mist on the patties, ensuring a golden finish.
Variations
I love playing around with this Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe depending on what mood or ingredients are on hand. Feel free to personalize it—it’s quite forgiving and open to tasty tweaks.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika makes things interesting; my family absolutely loves this twist.
- Herb Swap: Sometimes I swap dill for fresh parsley or cilantro when I want a different flavor profile—it’s just as good.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds for a delightful nutty crunch.
- Added Veggies: Grated zucchini or carrot sneaked in add moisture and extra nutrition without overpowering the salmon taste.
How to Make Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Breadcrumbs and Onion Perfectly
Start by placing the panko breadcrumbs in a mixing bowl. Then grate your onion directly over the breadcrumbs, juices and all. This is a game-changer because it hydrates the breadcrumbs right away, making the patties soft, not dry or crumbly. Stir them together to make sure every breadcrumb is touched by that onion juice—this little step really sets the foundation for a tender bite.
Step 2: Mix in Flavors and Binders
Add the minced garlic, finely sliced scallions, chopped fresh dill, eggs, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir everything well until you have a consistent mixture before adding the salmon.
Step 3: Gently Fold in the Salmon
Now add your cooked (or canned) salmon. Here’s a little trick: fold it in gently so you still see lovely flakes. Overmixing can break the salmon down too much and make the patties dense rather than light and flaky. You want those nice chunks spread evenly throughout.
Step 4: Shape Your Patties with Confidence
Using a 1/4 cup scoop (a standard ice cream scoop works wonderfully), scoop the mixture and pack it slightly to hold shape. Then form into round patties about 1.5 cm (2/3″) thick. Don’t press too firmly or they’ll become dense; gentle shaping works best.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Drizzle vegetable oil over your baking tray and pop it into the hot oven for a couple of minutes. This step ensures the oil is hot and evenly distributed, which prevents sticking and gives your patties that golden-brown crust. Arrange the patties on the tray without pressing them down—you’ll want to preserve their airy texture. Lightly spray the tops with oil spray, bake for 15 minutes, then flip, spray again, and bake for another 5 minutes. That final flip ensures even crisping on both sides.
Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe
Pro Tips for Making Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe
- Panko Magic: I always use panko so my patties come out crispy but light; regular breadcrumbs tend to make them denser.
- Don’t Overmix Salmon: Folding gently keeps those beautiful salmon flakes intact—this makes all the difference in texture.
- Hot Oil on Tray: Heating the oiled baking tray in the oven preps a surface that crisps the patties wonderfully and prevents sticking.
- Oil Spray Over Brushing: Spraying on oil more evenly coats the patties and saves you from using too much oil overall.
How to Serve Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
I love serving these patties with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt—and if you’re like me, adding an extra sprinkle of fresh dill on top is a must. The cool creaminess balances out the savory, crispy patties perfectly. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens everything up too. Trust me, these little finishing touches take the whole dish from great to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
When I make these salmon patties, I often pair them with cauliflower purée for a creamy, wholesome side, or a crunchy yogurt slaw for freshness and texture contrast. Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad work beautifully, too—especially when you’re looking for something light and healthy alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I like plating the patties on a bed of mixed baby greens with edible flowers sprinkled on top—it instantly elevates the dish visually. Another fun idea is using these patties as a “burger” base: serve on toasted buns with avocado slices, pickled onions, and a zingy aioli for a salmon twist on classic sliders.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I find these patties store wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I make extra, I immediately cool them completely before refrigerating—that helps retain their texture without sogginess. Simply cover well and you’re good to go for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
Freezing baked salmon patties works great too! After baking, let them cool completely then freeze them flat on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag. This stops them from sticking together. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven to bring back that lovely crisp texture.
Reheating
To keep the patties crisp when reheating, I always recommend the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave. A quick 8-10 minutes at 180°C (350°F) will refresh that crunch and warm them through without drying out the inside.
FAQs
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Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned red or pink salmon (drained well) works wonderfully in this recipe. It’s a convenient, budget-friendly option that still delivers great flavor and texture. Just be sure to drain excess liquid to avoid soggy patties.
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How can I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Using enough binder ingredients like eggs and breadcrumbs is key, as is folding the salmon gently rather than overmixing. Also, shaping the patties gently without compressing too much helps keep them tender but intact.
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Is baking better than frying these salmon patties?
Baking is a healthier and less messy method that still creates crispy patties—especially when you preheat a well-oiled baking tray. It also cooks them evenly and keeps your kitchen cool.
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Can I make these gluten-free?
You can swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even finely crushed nuts like almonds. Just make sure your substitutes soak up moisture similarly to hold the patties together well.
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How long do these patties keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, these salmon patties stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love how this Baked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe comes together so easily—from pantry staples and fresh herbs to a golden finish in the oven. The first time I made these, my family couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and flavorful they were, and they’ve become a regular in my weeknight rotation ever since. Give this recipe a go—you’ll find it’s a balanced, delicious way to enjoy salmon that’s both nourishing and satisfying. I’m confident once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more, just like me!
PrintBaked Salmon Patties with Fresh Dill and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 patties (serves 4)
- Category: Snack, Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Salmon Patties are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried patties, offering a golden crispy exterior and a juicy, savory inside. Made with fresh or canned salmon, they are baked to perfection in the oven, minimizing oil use and cleanup. Perfect as a snack or light meal served with creamy sides like sour cream, yoghurt, or cauliflower puree.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1/2 cup parmesan, grated or shredded
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 small onion (or 1/2 large), grated
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 2 shallots / scallions / green onions, finely sliced
- 1/3 cup fresh dill, roughly chopped (or 1 tsp dried herbs of choice)
Main Protein
- 400 g / 14 oz cooked fresh salmon OR canned red or pink salmon, drained
Binding and Cooking
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 220°C/430°F (200°C fan) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the patties evenly and crisply.
- Prepare breadcrumbs and onion: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a bowl. Grate the onion directly over the breadcrumbs including the juices, then mix well so all breadcrumbs are moistened by the onion.
- Mix ingredients: Add the finely minced garlic, sliced shallots, chopped dill, eggs, parmesan, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add salmon: Gently fold in the cooked or canned salmon, careful to leave flakes intact rather than breaking it into tiny pieces for a nice texture.
- Form patties: Using a 1/4 cup scoop (such as a standard ice cream scoop), portion out the mixture and shape into round patties approximately 1.5 cm (2/3 inch) thick. Set them aside on a plate or tray.
- Prepare baking tray: Drizzle the vegetable oil all over a baking tray and place it in the oven for 2 minutes until the oil is hot and spread evenly. You can tilt the tray to distribute the oil if needed.
- Bake patties – first side: Arrange the patties on the hot tray without pressing down to avoid sticking. Spray the tops lightly with oil spray, then bake for 15 minutes to develop a golden crust.
- Flip and finish baking: Carefully flip each patty and spray the exposed surface with oil spray. Bake for an additional 5 minutes until patties are cooked through and crispy on both sides.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately. These patties pair wonderfully with sour cream or yoghurt for dipping, and garnish with extra fresh dill if desired. For a healthy meal, serve alongside cauliflower puree or yoghurt slaw.
Notes
- Recipe VIDEO available to guide preparation visually.
- Either fresh cooked salmon or canned salmon can be used, making this recipe versatile and convenient.
- Baking rather than frying these patties reduces oil usage, making them a healthier option with less mess.
- Using panko breadcrumbs creates a crispy texture; substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
- Makes approximately 12 patties depending on size.
- Serving suggestions include cauliflower puree and yoghurt slaw, both healthy and complementary sides.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 187 g
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg