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If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, quick, and delicious way to add more omega-3s to your weeknight meals, these Canned Salmon Burgers are about to be your new go-to! Made with pantry staples, they’re packed with flavor, high in protein, and come together in under 30 minutes.
These burgers are perfect for a light dinner, meal prep, or even as a creative lunch sandwich. Serve them on a toasted bun, over greens, or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist!
Why You’ll Love These Canned Salmon Burgers
These canned salmon burgers are everything you want in a weeknight meal: quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. They come together with pantry staples, making them a perfect option when you’re low on fresh groceries but still want something wholesome and homemade.
The burgers are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, yet light and versatile enough to fit a variety of diets and meal styles. Whether you serve them on a toasted bun, over a salad, or in a lettuce wrap, they deliver a delicious, crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful center.
Plus, they’re endlessly adaptable. You can spice them up, make them gluten-free, add herbs, or load them with veggies—whatever fits your taste and lifestyle. These salmon burgers are an easy win for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties:
- 2 cans (6–7 oz each) boneless, skinless salmon, drained
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onion or shallots
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for pan-frying
Optional for Serving:
- Burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Lettuce, tomato, red onion
- Tartar sauce, spicy mayo, or plain Greek yogurt
How to Make Canned Salmon Burgers (Step-by-Step)
Making delicious, golden salmon burgers with canned salmon is surprisingly easy! Follow these simple steps to turn pantry staples into a flavorful, protein-packed meal:
Step 1: Drain and Prep the Salmon
Start by opening your canned salmon. If it contains skin or bones, remove them, or mash them in (they’re edible and rich in calcium, but optional). Drain any excess liquid to avoid soggy patties.
Place the salmon in a large mixing bowl and use a fork to flake it into smaller pieces. This helps the burger mixture bind together evenly.
Pro Tip: Use boneless, skinless canned salmon for convenience. If your salmon is packed in oil, drain well to prevent greasy patties.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
To the bowl of flaked salmon, add the following:
- 1 large egg (helps bind everything)
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (adds structure)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (adds moisture and creaminess)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for tang and depth)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (brightens the flavor)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but adds umami)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or shallots
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Use a fork or your hands to gently combine the ingredients. The texture should be moist but moldable, not too wet or dry.
Troubleshooting: If the mixture feels too wet and sticky, add a little more breadcrumbs, a tablespoon at a time. If it feels dry or crumbly, add a splash of lemon juice or a bit more mayo.
Step 3: Shape the Salmon Patties
Divide the salmon mixture into 4 even portions for full-size burgers, or 6 if you’re making sliders. Shape each portion into a patty that’s about ½ inch thick and compact enough to hold together during frying.
Pro Tip: Wet your hands with a little water or oil to prevent sticking while forming the patties.
Place the patties on a plate or parchment-lined tray and let them rest in the fridge for 10–15 minutes. This helps them firm up before hitting the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon Burgers
Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
Once the oil is shimmering, gently place the patties in the pan. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each patty is:
- Golden brown and crispy on the outside
- Heated through and firm on the inside
Avoid flipping them too soon! Let a nice crust develop before gently turning them with a spatula.
Pro Tip: Use a fish spatula or wide flat spatula to flip without breaking the patties.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the cooked patties from the pan and let them rest for a minute or two. Serve them in your favorite way:
- On a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce
- Wrapped in butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
- On top of a salad or grain bowl
- Alongside roasted veggies or sweet potato fries
Don’t forget your favorite sauces! Spicy mayo, lemon-dill yogurt sauce, or classic tartar work beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Canned salmon burgers are incredibly versatile, which makes them perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep lunches, or even backyard BBQs. Here are some delicious ways to serve them, depending on your style and cravings:
On a Classic Burger Bun
Toast your favorite buns and load them up with:
- Lettuce, tomato, red onion slices
- Avocado or guacamole
- Tartar sauce or lemon-dill yogurt sauce
- A drizzle of hot honey or spicy mayo for extra kick
Over a Fresh Salad
Skip the carbs and serve your patty over a bed of greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light, protein-packed lunch.
In a Lettuce Wrap
For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, wrap your salmon burger in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves. Add sliced avocado and cucumbers for crunch.
As Salmon Sliders
Divide the mixture into 6–8 mini patties and serve on slider buns. Great for parties or appetizer platters!
Side Dish Pairings:
- Sweet potato fries
- Roasted baby potatoes with garlic and herbs
- Coleslaw or cucumber salad
- Creamy Ranch Pasta Salad for a summer picnic combo
Pro Tip: These salmon burgers also pair beautifully with a chilled white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or an iced herbal tea.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
Whether you’re meal-prepping or cooking for a crowd, these salmon burgers are extremely make-ahead and freezer-friendly.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare the patties up to 24 hours in advance, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge until ready to cook.
- The flavor deepens a little as the herbs and seasoning soak in — win-win!
Freezing Instructions:
- Shape the patties and place them uncooked on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze flat for 2–3 hours until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe zip bag.
- Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.
To Cook from Frozen:
- You can either thaw overnight in the fridge, or cook from frozen — just add an extra 3–4 minutes per side on medium-low heat.
Meal Prep Hack: Make a double batch and freeze half for easy dinners on busy nights.
Variations & Add-Ins
These salmon burgers are a blank canvas for creativity. Here are some flavorful spins and dietary tweaks to suit your preferences:
Spicy Salmon Burgers
Add chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or 1 tsp of sriracha into the mix. Serve with spicy mayo or chipotle aioli.
Mediterranean Style
Mix in chopped olives, feta cheese, and fresh dill. Serve with tzatziki, cucumber ribbons, and pita or flatbread.
Asian-Inspired
Add soy sauce, grated ginger, and a bit of sesame oil to the mixture. Top with sliced scallions and serve with a sesame cabbage slaw.
Garlic-Parmesan
Mix in grated Parmesan cheese, roasted garlic, and Italian herbs. Serve on a ciabatta bun with arugula and a lemon aioli.
Gluten-Free
Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Almond flour and crushed pork rinds also work for keto versions.
Cheesy Salmon Patties
Fold in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a melty surprise inside!
Veggie-Loaded
Mix in finely grated zucchini or carrots to sneak in extra veggies. Just squeeze out excess moisture first.
Custom Flavor Tip: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning — try curry powder, Cajun spice, or Italian blend depending on your mood.
Final Thoughts
These Canned Salmon Burgers are a total win: easy, nutritious, affordable, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re new to cooking with canned fish or just need a fast weeknight meal, this recipe delivers all the flavor with none of the fuss.
So stock up on a few cans of salmon—you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again.