Air Fryer Salmon Patties are made with fresh salmon, almond flour and a handful of simple seasonings. These gluten-free, dairy-free patties require no mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, or crackers. Serve them with a crisp side salad or place on a bun for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
We eat salmon often in our home — it’s one of those proteins everyone agrees on — so I make it a lot. These salmon patties are quick, require fewer than ten ingredients, and cook in the air fryer in about 10–12 minutes. The finished patties are tender inside with a golden, crispy exterior.
Ingredients for air fryer salmon patties
Below is a summary of the ingredients. See the recipe card later in this post for exact measurements.
- Fresh salmon – I prefer fresh salmon for its texture and flavor. You only need a small fillet (about 5 ounces) to make four large patties.
- Almond flour – Replaces breadcrumbs to keep the patties gluten- and grain-free while helping bind the mixture and adding extra protein.
- Onion – Half a medium onion, chopped. It sounds like a lot for four patties, but it adds moisture and flavor.
- Chives – Fresh chives give a bright flavor and color. If fresh chives aren’t available, substitute fresh dill or green onion rather than dried chives.
How to make salmon patties in the air fryer
Step 1: Remove the skin from the salmon (if present) and cut the fillet into pieces. Add the salmon and remaining ingredients to a food processor.
Step 2: Pulse on high until the mixture is combined but still has small pieces of salmon, onion, and chives for texture.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into four patties about 3 inches in diameter. Refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes to firm them up.
Step 4: Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the patties in a single layer, spray the tops lightly, and air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, until cooked through and golden.
Frequently asked questions
Using fresh salmon with an egg and almond flour helps bind the patties. Chilling them before cooking firms them up so they hold their shape during air frying.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for 45–60 seconds or until warmed through; avoid overcooking to prevent drying.
Yes. Wrap each raw patty individually, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before air frying.
What to serve with air fried salmon patties
- Serve with a green salad, such as a spring salad or a vegetable orzo salad for a fuller meal.
- Try them with healthier coleslaw, air fryer baby potatoes, or air fryer potato slices if you prefer something heartier.
- Top the patties with creamy condiments like cashew mayo, a jalapeño dip, or a chipotle dip when serving on buns or lettuce wraps.
Recipe tips and substitutions
- Swap garlic powder for 2 cloves of fresh garlic if you prefer a stronger, fresher garlic flavor.
- Grease the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and spray the tops of the patties to encourage even browning.
- Do not skip chilling the patties; it helps them set and improves texture.
- Avoid overcooking in the air fryer to keep the patties moist.
More air fryer seafood recipes
- Air Fryer Tilapia
- Air Fryer Cod
- Air Fryer Breaded Shrimp
- Air Fryer Scallops
- Air Fryer Fish Tacos
If you make these air fryer salmon patties, please leave a comment and rating to share how they turned out.
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📖 Recipe
Air Fryer Salmon Patties (with Fresh Salmon)
Ingredients
- 1 small salmon fillet, skin removed (about 5 ounces)
- 2/3 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 medium-sized onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cut the salmon fillet into a few pieces and add all ingredients to a food processor.
- Process on high until combined but with a few small pieces of salmon, onion and chives remaining.
- Shape into four patties about 3 inches in diameter and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Arrange patties in a single layer and spray the tops lightly.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, until cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Notes
- If you can’t find fresh chives, use green onion or dill instead of dried chives for better flavor.
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold together and lets flavors meld.
- These are best served hot and crispy. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days; they will soften when reheated.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
| Carbohydrates: 6 g
| Protein: 13 g
| Fat: 13 g
Disclaimer
Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary with substitutions and brands used.