3-Ingredient Salmon Patties (Easy Low Carb Canned Salmon Recipe)

These 3-Ingredient Salmon Patties are the kind of simple, comforting recipe that has been passed down through generations. Made with canned salmon, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, they come together quickly and fry up into golden, crispy patties that are packed with flavor.

In many Midwestern kitchens, recipes like this were a clever way to stretch pantry staples into a filling meal. A can of salmon could easily turn into a plate of crispy patties that everyone loved. This updated version keeps that nostalgic flavor while skipping the breadcrumbs or crackers, making it perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb salmon recipe.

They’re quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and great for meal prep. You can even keep a batch in the fridge so they’re ready whenever you want a quick snack or light meal.

Why You’ll Love These Salmon Patties

This recipe has remained popular for decades because it’s incredibly simple and satisfying.

Reasons to love this recipe:

• Only 3 ingredients

• Naturally low carb

• Made with budget-friendly canned salmon

• Crispy outside and tender inside

• Perfect for quick meals or snacks

The Parmesan cheese acts as both a binder and seasoning, helping the patties hold together while adding a rich, savory flavor.

Ingredients

You only need three pantry ingredients to make these low carb salmon patties.

• 2 (14–15 oz) cans pink salmon, drained well and flaked

• 3 large eggs

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (the dry shaker-style works best)

Optional: cooking oil for frying.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Salmon Patties

These patties come together in just a few simple steps.

1. Prepare the Salmon

Drain the canned salmon thoroughly, pressing gently with the lid to remove excess liquid.

Place the salmon in a medium mixing bowl and flake it with a fork. If desired, remove any large bones or pieces of skin.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Add the eggs and grated Parmesan cheese to the bowl with the salmon.

Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.

If the mixture seems too soft to shape, let it sit for a few minutes so the cheese absorbs some of the moisture.

3. Shape the Patties

Using your hands, scoop portions of the mixture and form them into small round patties about:

• 2–2½ inches wide

• ½ inch thick

You should get about 10–12 patties, depending on the size.

Place the patties on a plate while you prepare the skillet.

4. Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet (a cast iron skillet works great) over medium heat.

Add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan and heat until the oil shimmers but isn’t smoking.

5. Fry the First Side

Carefully place several patties into the skillet, leaving a little space between them.

Cook for 3–4 minutes without moving them, until the bottoms become deep golden brown and crispy.

6. Flip and Finish Cooking

Gently flip each patty with a spatula.

Cook the second side for another 3–4 minutes, until the patties are golden brown and cooked through.

Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

7. Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.

Repeat with the remaining patties, adding a little more oil if needed.

Serve warm or let cool slightly before storing.

Tips for the Best Salmon Patties

Drain the salmon well
Too much liquid can make the patties fall apart.

Use finely grated Parmesan
The powdery texture helps bind the mixture better.

Let the mixture rest
Allowing it to sit briefly helps the ingredients firm up.

Use medium heat
This allows the patties to crisp up without burning.

Serving Ideas

These low carb salmon patties are delicious on their own or served with simple sides like:

• fresh salad

• roasted vegetables

• coleslaw

• sliced avocado

• lemon wedges

They also pair nicely with tartar sauce or garlic aioli.

How to Store Salmon Patties

These patties store very well and are great for leftovers.

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer:
Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.

Reheat:
Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Salmon Patties prove that simple recipes can still be incredibly satisfying. With just canned salmon, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, you can create crispy, flavorful patties that are perfect for a quick meal or snack.

Whether you enjoy them fresh from the skillet or cold straight from the fridge, this easy low-carb salmon recipe is a timeless kitchen staple.