Delicious and Easy Salmon Patties with Creamed Pea Sauce: A Comfort Food Classic

There’s something uniquely comforting about a dish that reminds you of home, of family, and of simpler times. For many, salmon patties are exactly that—a nostalgic treat often passed down through generations. My own journey with these delightful patties began with a mix of culinary ambition, a slight mishap, and a heartfelt promise to my dad that brought a cherished family recipe back to life. This recipe for salmon patties, topped with a luscious creamed pea sauce, is not just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of food to connect us to our past and create new memories.

My first true foray into independent cooking and grocery shopping happened during my studies in Ireland. It was a time of exhilarating freedom, but also a steep learning curve in the kitchen. Initially, I leaned heavily on familiar, easy options like canned tuna. However, seeking to expand my culinary horizons (and perhaps to impress myself), I decided it was time to try salmon. My initial experience, however, was far from ideal. I learned a crucial lesson the hard way: always, always, always choose salmon explicitly labeled “boneless and skinless.” The 15 minutes I spent painstakingly picking tiny, disc-shaped bones out of my cooked salmon was a culinary nightmare I will never forget. It’s a mistake you truly only make once!

Fast forward to the last week of a relaxing Christmas break, and a conversation with my dad sparked a wonderful idea. He reminisced fondly about his mother’s salmon patties, a dish he hadn’t had in years and clearly missed dearly. I made a promise: I would try my hand at replicating them, complete with her special cream sauce, if he would supply a can of salmon. True to his word, he arrived with the necessary ingredient, and I was eager to keep my promise. The challenge was on: could I capture the essence of his mother’s beloved recipe? This recipe is my best attempt, and it consistently brings a smile to his face, making it a beloved staple in my own kitchen now.

Salmon patties are incredibly versatile, offering a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon in a budget-friendly and delicious format. While this recipe focuses on canned salmon, which is wonderfully convenient and economical, you could certainly substitute canned tuna or even canned crab meat for a different, but equally delicious, experience. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and its ability to transform humble ingredients into something truly special and satisfying.

Homemade Salmon Patties with Creamed Pea Sauce, garnished and ready to serve.

Why Choose Salmon Patties? The Benefits of This Delicious and Economical Dish

Beyond nostalgia and personal anecdotes, salmon patties offer a myriad of advantages that make them a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, quick lunches, or even a comforting brunch. Here’s why they should find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:

Nutrient-Rich Goodness: Salmon is a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with vital Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, cognitive function, and reducing inflammation throughout the body. It’s also an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential B vitamins, and important minerals like potassium and selenium. Even canned salmon retains many of these fantastic health benefits, making it an accessible superfood.
Budget-Friendly Meal: Canned salmon is significantly more affordable than fresh fillets, making it an excellent and economical way to incorporate more seafood into your diet without straining your grocery budget. It’s a clever way to enjoy a nutritious meal without the premium price tag.
Quick and Easy Preparation: From gathering your ingredients to having a delicious meal on the table, these patties come together in under 30 minutes. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Incredibly Versatile: As mentioned, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t have peas? Try adding corn, finely diced carrots, or even some spinach to the sauce. Not a fan of Italian seasoning? Experiment with fresh dill (a classic pairing with salmon), Old Bay seasoning for a Chesapeake Bay twist, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Their appealing texture, mild flavor, and golden-brown exterior often make salmon patties a surprising hit with children, especially when served with a creamy, comforting sauce. It’s a fantastic and often successful way to introduce them to the goodness of fish.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Patties

Crafting these delightful patties begins with gathering fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

1 teaspoon vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the aromatic vegetables, ensuring they are tender and flavorful. Olive oil or canola oil can be easily substituted.
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped: Adds a foundational savory depth and a subtle hint of sweetness. Finely chopping the onion ensures it integrates smoothly into the patties and cooks evenly.
1 clove garlic, minced: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the richness of salmon beautifully, adding an aromatic punch.
1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely diced: Contributes a fresh, slightly crisp texture and a mild, earthy flavor. Red or yellow bell pepper can be used for a slightly sweeter profile and a pop of color.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. This blend adds a fantastic aromatic complexity to the patties. If you prefer, individual fresh or dried herbs like parsley, basil, or dill (which pairs exceptionally well with salmon) can be used. Finely chopped fresh herbs would elevate the flavor even further.
15 oz canned salmon, drained: This is the unequivocal star of our show. It is absolutely crucial to select canned salmon that is clearly labeled “boneless and skinless.” This critical step will save you a significant amount of time and effort in preparing the patties. Pink salmon or red sockeye salmon are both excellent choices for flavor and texture. Ensure you drain the salmon thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the patties soggy. You can even press it lightly between paper towels to remove extra liquid.
1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as an essential binder, holding the patty mixture together so they don’t crumble during cooking. It also adds a bit of richness.
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs: Helps to absorb any remaining moisture and creates a good, firm yet tender texture for the patties. Panko breadcrumbs are an excellent choice if you desire an extra crispy exterior, or you can easily make your own from stale bread by toasting and crumbling it.

For the Creamy Pea Sauce: A Velvety Complement

This simple yet elegant sauce is the quintessential accompaniment to salmon patties, adding a creamy, slightly sweet counterpoint that elevates the entire dish. It’s a classic pairing for a reason—it’s simply delicious!

2 Tbsp butter: Forms the rich, flavorful base of our roux, which is essential for thickening the sauce.
2 Tbsp flour: Used in conjunction with butter to create a roux, thickening the sauce to a smooth, velvety consistency. All-purpose flour works perfectly here.
1 cup milk: The liquid base for the sauce. Whole milk will yield a richer, more luxurious sauce, but 2% or skim milk can also be used successfully, perhaps resulting in a slightly thinner sauce.
1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed: Adds a delightful pop of color, a delicate sweetness, and a pleasant texture to the sauce. Thawing them before adding ensures they heat through quickly without lowering the sauce’s temperature or making it watery.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Crafting Your Salmon Patties with Creamed Pea Sauce

Follow these detailed steps carefully to create perfectly golden salmon patties and a luxurious, smooth creamed pea sauce that will impress everyone at your table.

Prepare Your Baking Sheet and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 450°F (230°C). This high temperature is key to helping the patties cook quickly and achieve a beautiful, appealing golden crust. Lightly grease a cookie sheet or, for even easier cleanup, line it with parchment paper to prevent any sticking.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 3 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become translucent. Be careful not to overcook them; they should retain a slight bite and not brown too much. Stir in the Italian seasoning and cook for another 30 seconds until the herbs become wonderfully fragrant. Immediately remove the skillet from the heat to prevent the seasonings from burning and becoming bitter.
Combine and Prepare the Patties: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, place the thoroughly drained canned salmon. Using a fork, gently flake the salmon apart, ensuring there are no large clumps or bones (if, despite precautions, any were missed). Add the lightly beaten egg and mix thoroughly, ensuring the egg is well incorporated into the salmon. Next, add the sautéed onion and pepper mixture, along with the breadcrumbs. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the breadcrumbs and result in tough patties.
Shape the Patties: The mixture should be moist enough to hold its shape easily. Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. For consistently sized and uniformly cooked patties, a 1/4-cup measuring cup works wonders – simply pack the mixture firmly into the cup and then invert it onto your hand or directly onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each portion into a patty, about 1/2-inch thick. Arrange the patties on your greased cookie sheet, leaving a little space between each one to ensure even cooking and browning.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Transfer the cookie sheet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon patties are beautifully golden brown on top, slightly crispy at the edges, and thoroughly heated through. The exact baking time may vary slightly depending on your specific oven and the thickness of your patties, so keep an eye on them.
Prepare the Creamed Pea Sauce (Part 1 – Roux): While the patties are baking, begin preparing your sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Once the butter is completely melted and lightly bubbly, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture, stirring constantly with a whisk, for 1 to 2 minutes. The roux should be smooth and bubbly, but it’s important to avoid browning it, as we want to achieve a classic white sauce.
Prepare the Creamed Pea Sauce (Part 2 – Thicken): Remove the saucepan from the heat for a moment, then gradually whisk in the 1 cup of milk. Adding it slowly helps prevent lumps from forming. Return the saucepan to medium heat and continue stirring constantly as the sauce heats. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and continue to boil and stir for 1 minute, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be smooth, creamy, and velvety.
Add Peas and Finish Sauce: Stir in the 1/2 cup of thawed frozen peas. Heat gently for another minute or two, just until the peas are warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the peas, as they can become mushy and lose their vibrant color.
Assemble Your Dish: Once the salmon patties are cooked and removed from the oven, arrange them on serving plates. Spoon a generous amount of the warm, luscious creamed pea sauce over each salmon patty. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This recipe yields 4 satisfying servings, perfect for a family meal or a few days of delicious leftovers.

Tips for Achieving Perfect Salmon Patties Every Time

Follow these expert tips to ensure your salmon patties are consistently delicious, perfectly textured, and never fall apart:

Thorough Draining is Paramount: The most crucial step! Ensure your canned salmon is thoroughly drained. Excess moisture is the primary culprit behind soggy patties that struggle to hold their shape. You can even press the flaked salmon gently between layers of paper towels to extract any lingering liquid.
Avoid Overmixing: Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, mix them just until combined. Overmixing the salmon mixture can develop the gluten in the breadcrumbs and egg, resulting in tough, rubbery patties rather than tender ones.
Uniform Patties for Even Cooking: Using a measuring cup (like the 1/4-cup suggested) for shaping helps ensure uniform size and thickness. This consistency is key for all the patties to cook evenly and be ready at the same time.
Consider Pan-Frying for Extra Crispy Results: While this recipe bakes the patties for a healthier and less messy option, you can certainly pan-fry them for an incredibly crispy exterior. To do so, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden brown and crispy.
The Pre-Cooked Taste Test: For seasoned cooks, a valuable tip is to take a small spoonful of the raw patty mixture and microwave it for 30 seconds. Taste this cooked sample and adjust seasonings (salt, pepper, herbs) if needed before forming and cooking all the patties.
Don’t Be Afraid of Seasoning: While Italian seasoning is used here, don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt and freshly ground black pepper to the salmon mixture. A well-seasoned patty is a flavorful patty.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Your Salmon Patties

Salmon patties with creamed pea sauce are a truly satisfying meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create a complete, balanced, and even more delightful dining experience:

Light and Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a vibrant vinaigrette dressing (lemon vinaigrette works particularly well) provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the patties and sauce.
Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Classic choices like steamed asparagus, tender green beans, or perfectly roasted broccoli florets are excellent companions, adding color and extra nutrients.
Hearty Starches: For a more substantial meal, serve the patties alongside roasted baby potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. Quinoa or couscous are also great, lighter alternatives.
Fresh Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavor of both the salmon and the creamy sauce, adding a zesty zing.
Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra delicious creamed pea sauce, ensuring no drop of flavor goes to waste.

Creative Variations to Explore: Customizing Your Salmon Patties

Feel empowered to get creative and put your own spin on this versatile recipe! Here are a few ideas to inspire you and help you customize your salmon patties:

Herbaceous Explorations: Experiment with different fresh or dried herbs in the patty mixture. Fresh dill, finely chopped chives, a touch of smoked paprika, or even a hint of curry powder can add unique and exciting flavor dimensions.
A Touch of Spice: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or some finely minced jalapeño into the patty mixture.
Cheesy Goodness: Mix in a tablespoon or two of finely grated Parmesan cheese, sharp cheddar, or even a creamy goat cheese into the salmon mixture for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Alternative Sauces: If the creamed pea sauce isn’t quite your preference, the versatility of salmon patties means they pair well with many other sauces. Consider a homemade dill mayonnaise, a tangy lemon-garlic aioli, a simple tartar sauce, or even a fresh tomato salsa.
Other Seafood Options: As mentioned in the original text, you can easily substitute canned tuna or canned crab meat for the salmon. Adjust the seasonings slightly to complement the different seafood flavor profile.
Vegetable Boost: Finely grated carrots, zucchini (ensure it’s well-squeezed to remove excess moisture), or even finely chopped spinach can be added to the patty mixture for extra nutrients, color, and moisture.

Storage and Reheating Best Practices

Leftover salmon patties (without the sauce) can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The creamed pea sauce should be stored separately in its own airtight container. To reheat the patties, gently warm them in the oven at a moderate temperature (around 300°F/150°C) until heated through and crisp again, or briefly in a nonstick skillet. The sauce can be gently reheated on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water if it has thickened too much during refrigeration.

This recipe for Salmon Patties with Creamed Pea Sauce is truly more than just a meal; it’s a journey back to cherished memories and a heartfelt invitation to create new ones with your loved ones. Whether you’re making them for nostalgic reasons, replicating a family favorite, or discovering them for the very first time, these golden, savory patties paired with their velvety, sweet pea sauce are sure to become a beloved and frequently requested dish in your home. Enjoy the process, savor the delicious flavors, and most importantly, share the joy of good food!

Source: Patties recipe adjusted from Recipe Zaar; creamed pea sauce also inspired by Recipe Zaar