There are salmon patties that require a long list of ingredients, and then there are low-carb 3-ingredient salmon patties—the kind of simple, healthy, satisfying meal that comes together in minutes with almost no effort. With just canned salmon, eggs, and almond flour (or pork rinds), you can create golden, crispy, flavorful patties that are perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even breakfast. They are keto-friendly, gluten-free, and packed with protein and healthy fats.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. No breadcrumbs, no potatoes, no fillers. Just salmon, eggs, and a low-carb binder. The result is a tender, flaky patty with a crispy exterior that tastes amazing on its own or with a dollop of tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or lemon wedge. They are perfect for meal prep, as they reheat beautifully.
These low-carb salmon patties are perfect for busy weeknights, for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, or for any time you crave a healthy, delicious seafood meal without a lot of work. They are also budget-friendly, using canned salmon.
Why You Will Love These Low-Carb Salmon Patties
· Only 3 ingredients: Salmon, eggs, and almond flour.
· Low-carb and keto-friendly: Only 2 to 3 grams of net carbs per serving.
· Ready in 15 minutes: Fast and easy.
· Crispy, golden, and delicious: Satisfying texture and flavor.
· Great for meal prep: Reheat beautifully.
· Budget-friendly: Uses affordable canned salmon.
· Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or cheese.
The 3 Ingredients
1. 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) pink or red salmon, drained
2. 2 large eggs
3. ½ cup almond flour (or crushed pork rinds)
Ingredients (Full List)
Here is everything you need for low-carb 3-ingredient salmon patties:
The 3 Main Ingredients:
· 2 cans (14.75 ounces each) salmon, drained
· 2 large eggs
· ½ cup almond flour (or ½ cup crushed pork rinds)
Optional Add-Ins (Still Low-Carb):
· 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley or dill
· 1 teaspoon lemon zest
· ¼ cup finely diced onion or green onion
· 1 clove garlic, minced
· ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· ½ teaspoon black pepper
· ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Cooking:
· 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil
For Serving:
· Lemon wedges
· Tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or sugar-free ketchup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Drain the Salmon
Open the cans of salmon and drain them thoroughly in a colander. For best results, press the salmon with the back of a spoon to remove as much liquid as possible. If you find small bones or skin, remove them if desired (they are soft and edible, but some prefer to remove them).
Step 2: Flake the Salmon
Transfer the drained salmon to a large bowl. Use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Almond Flour
Add the eggs and almond flour to the bowl. Add any optional add-ins you like (parsley, lemon zest, onion, garlic, Parmesan, pepper, etc.). Mix until well combined. The mixture should be moist but hold together when pressed. If it is too wet, add a little more almond flour. If it is too dry, add an extra egg.
Step 4: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into 6 to 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into a patty about ½-inch thick.
Step 5: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Air Fryer Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook
Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches). Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Serve
Serve hot.
Oven-Baked Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
Step 2: Bake
Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Serve
Serve hot.
Cooking Tips and Pro Tips for Best Results
· Drain the salmon well: Excess moisture makes the patties fall apart. Press the salmon firmly in a colander.
· Use almond flour for the best texture: Almond flour creates a tender, crispy patty. Crushed pork rinds (pork panko) are another excellent low-carb option.
· Chill the mixture if too soft: If the mixture is too soft to form patties, refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes before shaping.
· Do not overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding lowers the temperature and prevents crisping. Cook in batches.
· Serve immediately: These patties are best hot and crispy straight from the pan.
Variations and Substitutions
· Spicy salmon patties: Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha or ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
· Lemon dill salmon patties: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh dill and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest.
· Cheesy salmon patties: Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
· Onion garlic salmon patties: Add ¼ cup of finely diced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic.
· Use fresh salmon: Substitute 1½ pounds of cooked, flaked fresh salmon for the canned salmon.
· Nut-free: Use crushed pork rinds instead of almond flour.
Serving Suggestions
These low-carb salmon patties are delicious served:
· With a squeeze of lemon: Brightens the flavor.
· With tartar sauce or garlic aioli: Classic pairing.
· Over a salad: Serve on a bed of mixed greens.
· As a burger: On a low-carb bun or lettuce wrap.
· With roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezer Storage
These patties freeze well for up to 2 months. Place cooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen.
Reheating Instructions
· Skillet method (best): Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
· Air fryer method: Reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes.
· Oven method: Reheat at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes.
· Microwave method: Heat for 30 to 45 seconds (the texture will be softer).
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving (based on 4 servings, 2 patties each, without optional add-ins):
· Calories: 380
· Protein: 34g
· Fat: 24g
· Saturated Fat: 5g
· Carbohydrates: 6g
· Fiber: 3g
· Net Carbs: 3g
· Sugar: 1g
· Sodium: 680mg
· Vitamin D: 15% DV
· Calcium: 15% DV
· Iron: 8% DV
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes. Cook 1½ pounds of fresh salmon (bake, poach, or pan-sear), then flake and use in place of canned.
Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
Coconut flour absorbs much more liquid. Use only 2 tablespoons of coconut flour and add an extra egg.
Why are my patties falling apart?
The mixture may be too wet. Add a little more almond flour, or drain the salmon more thoroughly. Chilling the mixture also helps.
Can I make these without eggs?
Eggs are the binder. You can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water), but the texture will be different.
Are these keto-friendly?
Yes. With only 2 to 3 grams of net carbs per serving, they are perfect for a keto diet.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Follow the oven-baked method above.
What is the best oil for frying?
Avocado oil, coconut oil, or olive oil all work well.
Can I add breadcrumbs?
Traditional breadcrumbs are not low-carb. Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead.
Final Thoughts
Low-carb 3-ingredient salmon patties are proof that healthy eating does not have to be complicated. With just canned salmon, eggs, and almond flour, you can create a delicious, crispy, satisfying meal in minutes. They are perfect for busy weeknights, for meal prep, or for anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
This recipe is a blank canvas. Add herbs, spices, cheese, or lemon zest. Make them spicy or keep them mild. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon or a dollop of tartar sauce. However you make them, these salmon patties will become a go-to.
So drain that salmon, mix in the eggs and almond flour, and form those patties. That is the beauty of simple cooking—big flavor, minimal ingredients, and a whole lot of deliciousness.