Herbed Sweet Potato Salmon Patties

Name: Herbed Sweet Potato Salmon Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 patties
Ingredients: 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked; 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for frying

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Recipes

I love coming up with creative ways to enjoy salmon, and these Herbed Sweet Potato Salmon Patties have become a favorite in our home. The combination of flaky salmon with the sweetness of the sweet potatoes makes this dish not only delicious but also beautifully colorful on the plate. I often whip these up for a quick weeknight dinner or as a delightful addition to brunches with friends. Plus, they are so easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy days when I crave something wholesome yet satisfying.

Created by

Carolyns

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:42:28.583Z

During one of my weekend cooking sessions, I decided to blend my love for sweet potatoes and salmon into a delightful patty. The first attempt was a bit of a gamble, but the result was surprisingly delicious. The sweet potatoes add a velvety texture that complements the salmon perfectly, while fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile.

One tip I found helpful is to let the patties rest for a few minutes before pan-frying them. This allows them to firm up, ensuring they hold together beautifully while cooking. Trust me, it makes a significant difference when it comes to presentation and taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight meals
Packed with nutritious ingredients that are satisfying

Getting the Texture Just Right

When preparing the patties, the texture is essential for a satisfying bite. The mixture of flaked salmon and mashed sweet potatoes should be cohesive yet slightly chunky. If the mixture feels too wet or loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs until it holds together without falling apart when shaped. Aim for a consistency that allows you to form uniform patties about 2 inches across, which will cook evenly and develop a nice crust.

Ensure your mashed sweet potatoes are well-mashed and devoid of lumps. This prevents any unwanted chunky texture in your patties. If you're pressed for time, store-bought mashed sweet potatoes can be a quick option. Just make sure to check the ingredients for any added sugars or preservatives that may interfere with the sweet and savory balance of your patties.

Flavor Boosters and Variations

While the basic recipe is wonderful on its own, don’t hesitate to experiment with additional flavors. Consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a subtle smoke undertone or a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat. Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can also infuse your patties with extra freshness, complementing the salmon beautifully. Tailor the recipe according to your preferences; you might even incorporate other vegetables like grated zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

This recipe is naturally adaptable for different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, swap out regular breadcrumbs for oat flour or a gluten-free breadcrumb blend. You can also use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute—simply combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Herbed Sweet Potato Salmon Patties are easy to make ahead, making them perfect for meal prep. Once cooked, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Serving options are endless! Enjoy them as a satisfying main dish alongside a simple salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt to enhance the creaminess. For a fun brunch idea, serve the patties on a toasted English muffin with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce. Incorporating a zesty sauce, such as a lemon aioli or tartar sauce, can elevate the dish, providing tangy contrasts to the sweetness of the potatoes.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Patties

1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your patties:

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, mashed sweet potatoes, breadcrumbs, green onions, parsley, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form Patties

Shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Set them on a plate lined with parchment paper.

Cook the Patties

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and heated through.

Serve

Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel to drain. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy these healthy and flavorful patties!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding spices like smoked paprika or cumin to the mixture. You can also substitute canned tuna or mackerel for salmon if desired.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

The salmon not only adds a protein punch but also provides healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Using canned salmon makes this recipe incredibly accessible, but you could also use cooked fresh salmon, just ensure it is flaked properly before mixing in. This will result in a more prominent texture and flavor profile while keeping the nutritious elements intact.

Mashed sweet potatoes serve multiple roles in this dish—they bring sweetness, moisture, and a vibrant color that visually enhances the patties. Rich in vitamins A and C, they contribute to the healthiness of the dish while keeping it satisfying. Make sure they're well-cooked and smooth to blend seamlessly with the other ingredients.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your patties are falling apart during cooking, it could be due to insufficient binding. Be sure you're using enough breadcrumbs and the egg to help hold everything together. If you're still having issues, allow the formed patties to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before frying; this will help them firm up and maintain their shape.

For those unfamiliar with how to tell when the patties are fully cooked, look for a golden-brown crust to form on both sides. They should feel firm when you lightly press down, and the inside should be heated through and flaky—not mushy. This visual cue can help you determine the right cooking time without cutting into each patty.

Scaling the Recipe

Should you want to scale this recipe up for a gathering, simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. Just remember to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can lead to uneven cooking and prevent achieving that coveted golden crust. If aiming to serve a larger crowd at once, consider using an electric griddle, allowing you to cook multiple patties simultaneously and keep the heat consistent.

Conversely, if you’d like to make fewer patties, this recipe can be halved easily. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the reduced quantity; smaller batches will typically cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking.

→ Can I freeze the patties?

Absolutely! Freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with salmon patties?

These patties pair well with a side salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Are these patties gluten-free?

You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting them altogether, adjusting the egg for binding.