Under $5 Meals

How to Make Salmon Patties for Under $5 – Quick & Tasty

3 months ago
by Protein on a budget
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Golden salmon patties on a plate with a side of greens and lemon wedges

Introduction:

How to make salmon patties for under $5 is a question many budget-focused food lovers ask—and we’ve got the answer right here. With rising grocery prices, it’s more important than ever to find delicious, high-protein meals that won’t break your wallet. This easy recipe shows you how to whip up crispy, satisfying salmon patties in minutes using pantry staples. If you’re hungry for more affordable protein-packed ideas, check out our budget-friendly dinners section for inspiration. Plus, we’ve included tips and links to expert dietitian picks like these EatingWell budget high-protein meals.

1. Ingredients You’ll Need (Pantry & Budget Approved)

Ingredients for salmon patties including canned salmon, eggs, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices laid out on a countertop

Grab your apron and let’s talk ingredients. These essentials are affordable, easy to find, and pack big flavor without blowing your budget.

1. Canned Wild-Caught Pink Salmon

  • Amount: 1 can (14.75 oz)
  • Cost: ~$2.50
  • Chef’s Note: Go for wild-caught if you can—it’s rich in omega-3s and adds a cleaner flavor. Don’t worry about bones—they’re edible and soft after mixing.

2. Egg

  • Amount: 1 large egg
  • Chef’s Tip: Acts as your binding agent—keeps everything holding together like a pro.

3. Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers

  • Amount: 1/2 cup
  • Budget Hack: Got stale bread? Toast and blitz it. Crackers work great too—Ritz, saltines, even pretzels!

4. Chopped Onion

  • Amount: 2 tablespoons (fresh or powdered)
  • Flavor Note: Fresh adds a bit of crunch and zing; powdered is great for speed and longer shelf life.

5. Seasonings

  • To taste: Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder
  • Flavor Boost: Optional pinch of paprika or cayenne for heat lovers.

2. Step-by-Step – How to Make Salmon Patties for Under $5

Step-by-step images showing the process of mixing, shaping, and frying salmon patties.

Time to fire up the stove! Follow these easy steps to create golden, crispy perfection. This is how to make salmon patties for under $5—no stress, no mess, just results.

1. Drain the Salmon

  • Open your can and drain out excess liquid.
  • Chef’s Note: If you spot bones or skin, you can remove them—but they’re soft and packed with calcium, so feel free to keep them in for extra nutrition.

2. Mix All Ingredients Together

  • Combine drained salmon, an egg, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, diced onions, and spices in a medium bowl.
  • Pro Tip: Use a fork to break apart the salmon and blend everything evenly. No fancy tools needed!

3. Form the Patties

  • Shape the mix into small patties, about palm-size. You’ll usually get 6 patties per can.
  • Chef’s Trick: If the mixture feels too wet, add more crumbs. Too dry? Splash in a bit of milk or water.

4. Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Pan-fry the patties for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until they develop a crisp, golden crust.
  • Watch the edges: When they turn a deep gold, it’s time to flip.

3. Flavor Boosts Without Busting Your Budget

Small bowls of Dijon mustard, chili flakes, smoked paprika, parsley, and dill arranged beside salmon patties.

You’ve mastered how to make salmon patties for under $5—now let’s take them to the next level with flavor upgrades that won’t stretch your grocery bill. These optional additions turn simple into sensational.

1. Dijon Mustard – The Tangy Secret

  • Just 1 teaspoon mixed into your salmon mix adds a subtle, gourmet zing.
  • Chef’s Note: Don’t overdo it—Dijon is bold. A little goes a long way.

2. Chili Flakes or Smoked Paprika – For the Heat Lovers

  • Add a pinch to the mix before forming patties.
  • Pro Tip: Paprika brings smoky depth, while chili flakes add a spicy kick—customize to your taste buds.

3. Chopped Fresh Herbs – Parsley or Dill

  • Add 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped herbs to bring a burst of freshness.
  • Chef’s Pick: Dill and salmon are a match made in heaven. Parsley keeps it light and bright.

4. Grated Cheese or Nutritional Yeast – For Extra Protein & Umami

  • Toss in 1–2 tablespoons of sharp cheddar or Parmesan.
  • Budget Tip: Nutritional yeast is a vegan-friendly, protein-rich option with a cheesy taste and long shelf life.

4. What to Serve With Your Salmon Patties

Crispy salmon patties served with a fresh side salad of greens, tomatoes, and cucumber.

Now that you’ve nailed how to make salmon patties for under $5, it’s time to plate them up with some tasty, affordable sides. Here’s how to build a full meal without blowing your budget:

1. Quick Side Salad

  • Combine lettuce and sliced cucumber, then drizzle with a splash of vinegar-based dressing.
  • Chef’s Tip: A light salad balances the richness of the patties beautifully—crunchy, fresh, and done in minutes.

2. Steamed Frozen Veggies with Lemon

  • Steam a bag of mixed frozen veggies and squeeze fresh lemon over the top.
  • Budget Hack: Frozen veggies are just as nutritious as fresh—and a lot cheaper!

3. Mashed Sweet Potatoes or Canned Beans

  • Serve creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet pairing.
  • Or warm up a can of seasoned beans for a protein-packed, no-fuss option.

4. Budget Coleslaw

  • Shred cabbage and mix with a little mayo, salt, pepper, and a touch of vinegar.
  • Chef’s Note: It’s crunchy, creamy, and the perfect cooling side for your crispy patties.

5. Why Salmon Patties Are a Budget-Friendly Protein Hero

Budget-friendly salmon patties made with canned salmon and pantry staples on a plate.

There’s a reason more home cooks are learning how to make salmon patties for under $5—they’re the ultimate blend of nutrition, speed, and savings. Here’s why these humble patties deserve a permanent spot on your weekly meal plan:

1. High Protein-to-Cost Ratio

  • One can of salmon provides around 26g of protein—more than eggs or beans for the price.
  • Chef’s Note: You’re paying less than $0.10 per gram of protein. That’s unbeatable on a tight budget!

2. Shelf-Stable & Long-Lasting

  • Canned salmon stores easily in the pantry for months—no freezer or fridge needed.
  • Bonus: It’s perfect for meal planning, emergency dinners, or when fresh protein is out of reach.

3. Quick to Make

  • From pantry to plate in under 20 minutes.
  • Chef’s Tip: This recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you need something fast, filling, and fuss-free.

4. Packed with Omega-3s

  • Canned salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for both brain and heart health..
  • A smart way to boost nutrition for you or the whole family—without splurging on supplements.

Conclusion

Learning how to make salmon patties for under $5 is one of the smartest skills you can add to your budget-cooking playbook. With just a few pantry staples and less than 20 minutes, you can create a delicious, protein-packed meal that’s satisfying, affordable, and full of nutrition. Plus, with flexible sides and simple flavor upgrades, you’ll never get bored. For even more wallet-friendly inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of budget-friendly dinners and explore high-protein recipes that are perfect for any busy weeknight. Save money, eat better, and enjoy every bite!

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