This recipe for Grandma's Famous Salmon Cakes is a quick and easy seafood dish that’s perfect for any meal. With just a few ingredients, it creates crispy, golden patties that are flavorful and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These salmon cakes are simple, tasty, and versatile, making them a great family favorite. The dish uses pantry staples and comes together quickly, providing a comforting, delicious meal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 (14.75 ounce) can salmon, drained and flaked
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Remove any bones or large pieces of skin from the salmon.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs, then add the salmon, onion, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into eight 2-ounce patties.
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cook)
Variations
- Add a teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor.
- For a crunchier texture, coat the patties in breadcrumbs before frying.
- Swap the canned salmon with fresh salmon for a more delicate taste.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover salmon cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 5–7 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, fresh cooked salmon works well as a substitute.
2. How can I make these cakes spicier?
Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the mixture for an added kick.
3. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
4. Can I freeze these salmon cakes?
Yes, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen.
5. What should I serve these with?
Serve them with a side of salad, macaroni and cheese, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
6. How do I keep the cakes from falling apart while cooking?
Ensure the mixture is firm enough to form patties, and avoid overcrowding the skillet.
7. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, olive oil can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.
8. What if I don’t like onions?
You can skip the onions or substitute with green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
9. How do I make these gluten-free?
Simply skip any breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
10. Can I air fry these instead of pan-frying?
Yes, spray the patties with oil and air fry at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Famous Salmon Cakes are a timeless, simple dish that brings joy to any table. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Give it a try and make it your own!

Grandma's Famous Salmon Cakes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Grandma's Famous Salmon Cakes are a crispy, golden seafood delight that's easy to make with simple ingredients. This quick and delicious recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal, using canned salmon for convenience while packing in rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 (14.75-ounce) can salmon, drained and flaked
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
Remove any bones or large pieces of skin from the salmon.
In a bowl, beat the eggs, then add the salmon, onion, and black pepper. Mix well.
Shape the mixture into eight 2-ounce patties.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
Notes
- Add Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor.
- For a crunchier texture, coat patties in breadcrumbs before frying.
- Use fresh salmon for a more delicate taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American