Introduction
Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is a classic comfort food recipe that combines crispy golden salmon cakes with a refreshing, creamy dill sauce. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it equally suitable for a cozy family dinner or a light, elegant meal.
These patties are versatile—you can make them with fresh salmon or canned salmon, and they pair beautifully with a zesty dill sauce that cuts through the richness with a burst of freshness. This recipe highlights salmon’s natural flavor while giving it a satisfying, crispy crust.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s wholesome, budget-friendly, and incredibly flavorful. The salmon patties are tender inside, crunchy on the outside, and the dill sauce adds brightness that makes every bite feel balanced.
Another reason I enjoy this dish is its adaptability—it works just as well for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. You can serve the patties on their own, with a salad, or tucked into a sandwich. The dill sauce, with its tangy yogurt or sour cream base, makes it taste fresh and light without being heavy.
It’s also a fantastic way to use pantry staples (like canned salmon) while still creating a dish that feels special and satisfying.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This recipe is a must-try because:
- It’s healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein and omega-3s from salmon.
- It’s quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- It’s versatile: Works for weeknight dinners, lunch prep, or appetizers.
- It’s crowd-pleasing: Even those who don’t usually love fish often enjoy these crispy patties.
Plus, the homemade dill sauce elevates the dish from simple to restaurant-worthy.
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 (makes 8 patties)
- Calories per Serving (with sauce): ~350–380 kcal
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: American / European-inspired
- Course: Main Course / Dinner / Lunch
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties
- 14 oz canned salmon (or 2 cups cooked fresh salmon, flaked)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Dill Sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Simple Cooking Directions
- Mix salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, eggs, parsley, mustard, and lemon juice.
- Shape into patties.
- Pan-fry until golden brown.
- Whisk together ingredients for dill sauce.
- Serve patties warm with dill sauce.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the salmon mixture
- Drain salmon if using canned.
- In a large bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Add beaten eggs and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Form the patties
- Shape mixture into 8 equal-sized patties.
- Place on a tray or plate and let them rest for 5 minutes (helps them hold together).
Step 3: Cook the patties
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 4: Make the dill sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or yogurt), mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Serve
- Place patties on a serving plate and drizzle with dill sauce or serve on the side.
How to Serve
- Serve patties with a dollop of dill sauce and lemon wedges.
- Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
- Use as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or sliders.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Make sure salmon is well-drained if using canned to avoid soggy patties.
- Chill patties in the fridge for 10 minutes before frying if they feel too soft.
- For extra crunch, coat patties lightly in panko before frying.
- Use fresh dill for the best flavor in the sauce.
Variations
- Spicy Salmon Patties: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- Herb Lovers: Mix in fresh chives, basil, or cilantro along with parsley.
- Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour.
- Creamy Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the salmon mixture.
Freezing & Storage
- Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer (uncooked): Shape patties, place on a tray, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store up to 2 months. Cook directly from frozen.
- Freezer (cooked): Freeze patties for up to 1 month. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
- Dill Sauce: Best made fresh, but can be refrigerated for 2 days.
Special Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Small whisk (for sauce)
Conclusion
Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is a delicious, versatile recipe that’s both comforting and fresh. With crispy golden edges, tender salmon inside, and a refreshing dill sauce on top, it’s a dish that feels satisfying without being heavy. It’s quick enough for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining, and flexible enough to suit different tastes and diets.

Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce
Description
Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is a classic comfort food recipe that combines crispy golden salmon cakes with a refreshing, creamy dill sauce. It’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between hearty and fresh, making it equally suitable for a cozy family dinner or a light, elegant meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties
For the Dill Sauce
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the salmon mixture : Drain salmon if using canned. In a large bowl, combine salmon, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add beaten eggs and mix until well combined.
-
Step 2: Form the patties : Shape mixture into 8 equal-sized patties. Place on a tray or plate and let them rest for 5 minutes (helps them hold together).
-
Step 3: Cook the patties : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
-
Step 4: Make the dill sauce : In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream (or yogurt), mayonnaise, dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
-
Step 5: Serve : Place patties on a serving plate and drizzle with dill sauce or serve on the side.