Looking for a crunchy, savory, and protein-packed seafood dish that brings all the bold flavor of classic fish cakes—without breadcrumbs or unnecessary carbs? These Keto Salmon Patties are exactly what you need. With their golden crust, soft interior, and rich umami finish, this low-carb version delivers all the richness of restaurant-style salmon bites—in a keto-approved and gluten-free format.
Perfect for weeknight dinners , meal prep , or when you’re craving something hearty but staying in ketosis, these easy-to-make patties use simple ingredients like canned salmon, almond flour, and fresh herbs to bring bold Mediterranean flavor into your healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb diet , or simply love gourmet seafood dishes with depth and richness, these keto salmon patties will quickly become a go-to comfort food in your weekly rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect keto salmon patties from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love These Keto Salmon Patties
These aren’t just any old fish patty—they’re a savory, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in under 30 minutes!
Here’s why they stand out:
- 🐟 Premium salmon base : Made with real flaked salmon for natural sweetness and tenderness.
- 🥣 Easy to make : Just mix, shape, and pan-fry—no deep frying required!
- 🧄 Bold seasoning blend : Garlic, lemon zest, and dill deliver classic Nordic flavor.
- 🍽️ One-dish wonder : Minimal cleanup, maximum convenience.
- ⏱️ Ready in under 25–30 minutes
- 🧁 Great for batch prep or freezing
- 🧼 Low-carb and gluten-free : No flour, no breadcrumbs—just keto-approved binding.
Whether you’re making them for yourself after work, your family for dinner, or guests at a weekend brunch, these salmon patties will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon Patty Mixture:
- 1 can (14.75 oz) wild-caught salmon, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup almond flour or crushed pork rinds (for binding and crispiness)
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (to bind and add moisture)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard or lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 tsp dried dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp finely chopped red bell pepper or green onions for crunch
Pro Tip: Avoid imitation crab—it’s high in starch and sugar!
For Cooking:
- 1–2 tbsp avocado oil or ghee (for pan-frying)
For Serving (Optional):
- Keto tartar sauce or remoulade
- Lemon wedges
- Arugula or coleslaw
- Avocado slices or pickled vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Pan
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add avocado oil or ghee and let it warm up while preparing the patties.
Tip: Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for best sear and texture.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently combine:
- Flaked salmon (carefully folded to avoid breaking up too much)
- Almond flour or crushed pork rinds
- Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- Mustard or lemon juice
- Garlic
- Lemon zest
- Dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper
Mix until everything is well incorporated and holds its shape.
Note: Use clean hands to press and shape for best texture.
Step 3: Shape the Salmon Cakes
Using clean hands, form the mixture into 4–6 small patties , about ½-inch thick .
Place on a tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help them hold shape during cooking.
Step 4: Cook in Skillet Until Golden
Place salmon cakes in the hot skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side , or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
Optional: Add more oil halfway through cooking for deeper flavor and juiciness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and a dollop of keto tartar sauce or aioli.
Pair with a side salad, roasted asparagus, or zucchini noodles for a full keto meal.
Enjoy every soft, flaky bite of your Keto Salmon Patties !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~200 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~12 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3 g |
| Cholesterol | ~70 mg |
| Sodium | ~400 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1 g |
| Net Carbs | ~3 g |
| Protein | ~20 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best Keto Salmon Patties
- Use high-quality canned salmon – Look for BPA-free cans with skin and bones for extra nutrition.
- Don’t overmix the cake batter – Keep the salmon chunks intact for better mouthfeel.
- Chill before cooking – Helps maintain shape and prevents crumbling.
- Make ahead and store – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Double the batch for future meals – Great for reheating in the air fryer later.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Spicy Salmon Patties
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mixture for heat lovers.
Keto Baja Style
Top with chipotle mayo and shredded cabbage for a keto coleslaw twist.
Fresh Herb Crusted
Toss fresh dill, chives, or parsley into the mixture for garden-fresh flavor.
Vegan Option
Use hearts of palm or artichoke hearts with vegan egg and plant-based binder.
Salmon Burger Style
Top with lettuce, cheese, and keto bun for a handheld lunch option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~3g net carbs per patty , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular flour or breadcrumbs?
Not recommended—standard flour and breadcrumbs are high in carbs. Stick with almond flour or pork rinds.
How do I store leftover patties?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
What kind of salmon works best?
Wild-caught pink or sockeye salmon gives the richest flavor and color.
Can I freeze uncooked salmon patties?
Yes! Chill first, then wrap and freeze. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to cooking time.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These Keto Salmon Patties work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The almond flour gives body and crunch , mimicking traditional breading without gluten.
- The salmon stays tender and juicy , soaking up the rich seasoning during baking.
- And the pan-fried crust creates a golden seal without excess oil or fat.
It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your keto salmon patties beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
In Lettuce Cups
Wrap warm bites in large lettuce leaves for handheld eats.
Over Greens
Top arugula or kale with warm salmon patties and drizzle with balsamic glaze.
With Dipping Sauces
Try chipotle mayo, lemon-garlic aioli, or keto cocktail sauce for extra flair.
At a Dinner Party
Cut into mini bites and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer-style servings.
As Leftovers
Crumble over mashed cauliflower or mix with eggs for balanced lunches.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Wild-Caught Salmon
High in omega-3s and lean protein—supports heart function and muscle repair.
Almond Flour
Packed with vitamin E and healthy fats—great for brain function and satiety.
Garlic & Herbs
Natural anti-inflammatory compounds—boost immunity and digestion.
Even though these are salmon cakes, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a treat—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish for Seafood Lovers
These Keto Salmon Patties prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting seafood flavors. With their crispy shell, soft center, and signature oceanic finish, they’re the kind of dish that turns a simple seafood patty into something magical.
Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a fast dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these salmon patties deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
Keto Salmon Patties – Crispy, Flavorful & Perfectly Low-Carb!
- Total Time: 30 mins
Description
Deliciously flaky salmon combined with almond flour for a healthy treat!
Ingredients
6-ounce can salmon or cooked salmon (170g)
1/2 cup almond flour (50g)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (30g)
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
Spicy Dill-Garlic Dip: 1/2 cup sour cream (120g) 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
4 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne 1/4 teaspoon table salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Prepare Dip & Salmon: Stir together all dill-garlic dip ingredients until well-mixed; cover and refrigerate. Drain salmon can, discard any bones and skin, and pat meat dry with paper towels. Use digital food scale to measure 6 ounces to use for this recipe.
Make Patties: Stir together all salmon patty ingredients in large bowl until well-mixed, breaking apart any large chunks of salmon. Divide mixture into 5 equal-sized balls and place them on nonstick working surface like parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Use turner spatula to flatten them into 2 to 3 inch wide patties.
Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in large pan over medium heat until hot. Use turner spatula to carefully lower patties into hot oil, one at a time and evenly spaced. Tilt pan to ensure good oil coverage around all patties. Fry until browned and crispy on bottom, 5 to 6 minutes. Flip patties and repeat for other side, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to paper towel to drain.
Serve: Transfer salmon patties to serving plates, depositing a dollop of dill-garlic dip on top of each patty with remainder on the side. Enjoy while hot and crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 11g