Easy Air Fryer Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon Recipe

Salmon cakes are a delicious, budget-friendly, and protein-packed meal that can be made effortlessly in the air fryer. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a healthy meal option, or a Southern classic, this Easy Air Fryer Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon recipe is the perfect solution. With crispy edges and a tender, flavorful interior, these salmon cakes are guaranteed to be a hit!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – High in protein, omega-3s, and low in carbs
✅ Versatile – Works with various seasonings and ingredients
✅ Air Fried for Crispiness – Less oil but still crispy and golden brown
✅ Kid-Friendly & Toddler-Approved – Mild flavor and soft texture make it great for little ones

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Ingredients for Air Fryer Salmon Cakes

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (14.75 oz) can salmon (drained, skin and bones removed)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (use panko for extra crunch or almond flour for keto)
• 1 large egg (or egg substitute for egg-free option)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier version)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for brushing before air frying)

For the Optional Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

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How to Make Air Fryer Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

1. Drain the canned salmon and remove any skin or bones. Flake it with a fork in a mixing bowl.
2. Add breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers), egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir everything together until well combined. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a small amount of mayonnaise or an extra egg.

Step 2: Shape the Salmon Cakes

4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal-sized patties.
5. Flatten each patty slightly so it cooks evenly in the air fryer.

Step 3: Preheat & Prepare Air Fryer

6. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
7. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon Cakes

8. Place the salmon cakes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
9. Lightly brush or spray the tops with a little oil to help them crisp up.
10. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
11. Cook until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

12. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce.
13. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

14. Let the salmon cakes cool slightly before serving.
15. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon, and a side of your choice!

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your crispy air fryer salmon cakes with these delicious sides:

• Coleslaw – A refreshing and crunchy contrast
• Mashed Potatoes – Classic comfort food pairing
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – A healthy, low-carb option
• Rice or Quinoa – A simple but satisfying addition
• Cornbread – A Southern-style complement

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Recipe Variations

Keto/Low-Carb Salmon Cakes:

• Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
• Replace Worcestershire sauce with coconut aminos.

Gluten-Free Salmon Cakes:

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Egg-Free Salmon Cakes:

• Substitute 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water (let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).

Dairy-Free Salmon Cakes:

• Replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo or dairy-free yogurt.

Spicy Salmon Cakes:

• Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked salmon cakes on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.
• Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 4-5 minutes to crisp them back up.

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Nutrition Per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 salmon cake
• Calories: 180
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

FAQs

Can I Use Fresh Salmon Instead of Canned?

Yes! Simply cook and flake fresh salmon before using it in the mixture.

Why Are My Salmon Cakes Falling Apart?

If your salmon cakes are falling apart, try:

• Adding more breadcrumbs or an extra egg.
• Chilling the mixture for 15 minutes before shaping.
• Not overmixing, as too much handling can make them crumble.

Can I Make These in the Oven?

Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Can I Make This Recipe for Babies or Toddlers?

Yes! For babies, omit salt and Old Bay seasoning. For toddlers, keep the seasoning mild and break salmon cakes into bite-sized pieces.

What Can I Use Instead of Mayo?

Try Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or dairy-free alternatives.

How Do I Prevent the Salmon Cakes from Sticking?

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and don’t overcrowd the cakes.

How Do You Keep Salmon Cakes from Falling Apart?

Salmon cakes may fall apart if they don’t have enough binders. Here’s how to keep them intact:

• Use a Binder – Add breadcrumbs, panko, crushed crackers, or almond flour to absorb moisture.
• Add an Egg – Helps hold the ingredients together. If egg-free, try flaxseed meal with water.
• Chill the Mixture – Refrigerate for 15-30 minutes before shaping and cooking.
• Avoid Overhandling – Mix just until combined; overmixing can break down the texture.
• Cook at the Right Temperature – Too high or low can cause breaking. Aim for 375°F in the air fryer.

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Should I Wrap My Salmon in Foil in the Air Fryer?

No, you don’t need to wrap salmon in foil when air frying. The air fryer works best when hot air circulates freely around the food, ensuring even cooking.

However, if your salmon is very delicate or flaky, you can:

• Use perforated parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Lightly grease the air fryer basket with oil spray to avoid salmon breaking apart.

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What to Pair with Canned Salmon?

Canned salmon is incredibly versatile. Here are great pairings:

• Fresh Salads – A light option with spinach, kale, or arugula.
• Toast or Crackers – Great for an easy salmon spread.
• Mashed Potatoes – A classic side for Southern-style salmon cakes.
• Rice or Quinoa – Adds texture and fiber.
• Roasted Vegetables – Such as broccoli, carrots, or asparagus.

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How Long Should You Cook Salmon in the Air Fryer?

The cooking time depends on the thickness of the salmon and whether it’s fillets or cakes:

• Salmon Cakes (Patties): 10-12 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway.
• Salmon Fillets: 7-10 minutes at 375°F for a 1-inch thick fillet.

Always check with a thermometer – 145°F is the perfect internal temperature for cooked salmon.

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Why Are My Salmon Patties So Dry?

If your salmon patties are dry, it could be due to:

• Too Many Dry Ingredients – Reduce the amount of breadcrumbs or flour.
• Overcooking – Air frying longer than 12 minutes can make them dry.
• Not Enough Fat – Add mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a little olive oil for moisture.

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How Do You Cook Salmon So It Doesn’t Fall Apart?

To keep salmon from breaking apart:

• Handle Gently – Use a spatula when flipping.
• Cook at the Right Temp – Air fry at 375°F for best texture.
• Don’t Overcook – 145°F is the safe temp. Overcooking dries it out.
• Let It Rest – Let cooked salmon sit for 2-3 minutes before moving it.

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Why Can’t You Use Tin Foil in an Air Fryer?

You can use tin foil in an air fryer with caution, but it blocks airflow, which can result in uneven cooking.

When Using Foil:

• Don’t cover the entire basket – Leave space for air to circulate.
• Avoid acidic foods (like lemon or tomato) on foil—it can react and affect the taste.

For best results, use perforated parchment paper instead of foil.

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How Do I Keep Salmon from Drying in My Air Fryer?

• Brush with Olive Oil or Butter – Keeps it juicy and prevents drying.
• Don’t Overcook – Check at 7 minutes and adjust based on thickness.
• Marinate Before Cooking – Use lemon juice, garlic, and spices for moisture.

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What to Season Salmon With?

Salmon is incredibly versatile. Here are great seasoning options:

• Classic: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest.
• Spicy: Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne.
• Zesty: Lemon juice, dill, and garlic.
• Sweet & Savory: Honey, soy sauce, and ginger for an Asian twist.

Always season both sides for even flavor.

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Should You Rinse Canned Salmon?

No, you don’t need to rinse canned salmon. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can drain and gently rinse it under cold water.

If using skinless and boneless canned salmon, rinsing is unnecessary.

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What Goes With Salmon Cakes?

Here are some delicious sides to serve with air fryer salmon cakes:

• Coleslaw – A crunchy, refreshing side.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, classic pairing.
• Cornbread – Southern-style, slightly sweet.
• Green Salad – Light and fresh.
• Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, asparagus, or zucchini.

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Is Canned Salmon Already Cooked?

Yes. Canned salmon is fully cooked and safe to eat straight from the can.

You can mash it, mix it into recipes, or eat it cold in salads and sandwiches.

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Is Air Frying Salmon Better Than Baking?

Both methods have benefits:

• Air Frying:
  • Crispier texture with less oil.
  • Cooks faster (10-12 minutes).
  • Requires less cleanup.
• Baking:
  • Better for large fillets or multiple portions.
  • More gentle, even cooking.

Air frying is quicker and crispier, but baking is great for larger servings.

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Can You Eat Salmon Skin?

Yes. Salmon skin is edible and packed with nutrients like omega-3s.

For crispy skin, cook salmon skin-side down in the air fryer or pan-sear it.

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Can I Put Parchment Paper in the Air Fryer?

Yes, but use air fryer-safe parchment paper (perforated) to allow airflow.

Don’t use regular parchment at high temperatures—it can burn.

Best Practice: Place parchment after preheating, so it doesn’t fly up and block airflow.

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Final Thoughts

These Easy Air Fryer Salmon Cakes with Canned Salmon are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this healthy and protein-packed dish will be a staple in your home.

Try this recipe today and let us know how you liked it in the comments! 😊🐟🔥