Canned salmon sits in a lot of pantries and rarely gets used. That is a shame, because one can turns into a real dinner in about 20 minutes. It is already cooked, it costs less than fresh fish, and it keeps for years.
Salmon patties are the classic move, and they are on this list. But I also pulled together eight other ideas, from a cheesy noodle bake to rice bowls, quesadillas, and a no-cook salad. Each one links to the full recipe, and the burger recipe is right here on this page.
Table of Contents
Why Canned Salmon Makes a Good Dinner
The fish is fully cooked in the can. That means most of your time goes into the sauce, the noodles, or the bun, not the salmon. You are mostly just warming it through.
It is also a cheap way to get fish on the table. One 14.75 ounce can feeds about four people once you mix it with pasta, rice, or eggs. It has plenty of protein and omega-3 fats, and the soft bones add calcium if you leave them in.
Pink or Red Salmon: Which Can to Buy
Pink salmon is milder and lighter in color. It costs less and works well in casseroles, quesadillas, and anything with a creamy sauce. Kids tend to like it better because the flavor is softer.
Red salmon, often sold as sockeye, has a deeper color and a richer taste. It shines in salads and rice bowls, where the fish is front and center. Every recipe below works with either one, so buy what fits your budget.
How to Prep Canned Salmon
- Open the can and drain off the liquid in a fine strainer.
- Pull off any large pieces of skin if you don’t want them.
- Mash the small round bones with a fork, or lift them out. They are soft and safe to eat.
- Flake the fish into bite-size pieces and pat it dry with a paper towel if it looks wet.
Dry fish matters most in patties and burgers. Extra liquid makes them fall apart in the pan.
Quick Canned Salmon Questions
Do I need to cook canned salmon?
No. It is cooked during canning, so you can eat it straight from the can in a salad. In hot dishes you only need to heat it through.
How long does opened canned salmon keep?
Move leftovers to a covered container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I swap canned tuna?
Yes, in most of these recipes. Tuna is a bit drier, so add an extra spoon of mayo or sauce.
Classic Salmon Patties
These classic salmon patties are crisp on the outside and tender in the middle. You mix pink or red salmon with breadcrumbs and a squeeze of lemon, then pan fry them in a few minutes. They cost very little, kids eat them, and they freeze well for a later night.
Cheesy Salmon Noodle Casserole
This cheesy salmon noodle casserole is real comfort food. Egg noodles and flaked salmon get folded into a creamy cheese sauce and baked until bubbly. It is ready in under an hour and makes enough for leftovers the next day.
Juicy Salmon Burgers with Avocado Mayo
These salmon burgers are a lighter take on a regular burger. Flaked salmon is mixed with panko, an egg, Dijon, lemon juice, and a few spices, then shaped into four patties. They cook in olive oil for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden.
The avocado mayo is just mashed avocado stirred into mayo with lemon and garlic powder. Spread it on toasted buns and add lettuce, tomato, and red onion. If the mix feels too soft to shape, chill it for 10 minutes first. The full recipe is below.
Juicy Salmon Burgers with Avocado Mayo
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Ingredients
1 can pink or red salmon, drained and flaked
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp paprika
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
1 ripe avocado, mashed
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
4 burger buns (toasted)
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomato
Red onion slices (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the salmon mixture: In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
- Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties about ½ inch thick.
- Cook the burgers: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Make the avocado mayo: In a small bowl, mash the avocado and mix with mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread avocado mayo on toasted buns, then layer with lettuce, a salmon patty, sliced tomato, and red onion.
- Serve & enjoy: Enjoy immediately with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a light salad!
Notes
- Topped with creamy avocado mayo, these burgers are easy to make, protein-packed, and kid-friendly!
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Creamy Salmon Pasta with Spinach & Garlic
This Creamy Salmon Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal, rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make! Featuring pink or red canned salmon, fresh spinach, and plenty of garlic in a creamy parmesan sauce, it’s both healthy and family-friendly. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Red Pepper & Canned Salmon Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
These Red Pepper & Canned Salmon Stuffed Sweet Potatoes are a healthy, protein-packed, and easy dinner option. Featuring canned red or pink salmon, roasted sweet potatoes, and sautéed red peppers, this dish is bursting with flavor while being naturally gluten-free. Perfect for a quick, nutritious, and kid-friendly meal!
Easy Baked Salmon Rice Bowls with Teriyaki Drizzle
These Easy Baked Salmon Rice Bowls are a quick and delicious dinner option! Made with canned red or pink salmon, fluffy rice, and a homemade teriyaki drizzle, this dish is packed with flavor and protein. A healthy, kid-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Pink Salmon and Veggie Quesadillas
These Pink Salmon and Veggie Quesadillas are crispy, cheesy, and packed with healthy ingredients! Made with canned pink salmon, melty cheese, and sautéed veggies, they’re a quick, kid-friendly dinner perfect for busy nights. Serve with sour cream or guacamole for extra deliciousness!
Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Salad with Chickpeas
This Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Salad is a light yet satisfying meal packed with protein and fresh flavors. Made with canned red or pink salmon, chickpeas, crisp veggies, and a zesty lemon dressing, it’s a quick and nutritious option for lunch or dinner. No cooking required, making it perfect for busy days!
Best Salmon & Egg Scramble (Quick Breakfast-for-Dinner Option)
This Salmon and Egg Scramble is a simple, protein-packed meal perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner. Made with canned pink or red salmon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and fresh herbs, it’s a delicious and nutritious option that comes together in minutes.
Canned salmon is one of the most versatile, affordable, and nutritious ingredients you can keep in your pantry. With these 9 genius canned salmon dinner recipes, you’ll never be stuck making the same old salmon patties again! From creamy pastas and comforting casseroles to fresh salads and crispy burgers, these easy and delicious meals prove that canned salmon can be anything but boring.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal, or a kid-friendly option, these recipes make the most of this pantry staple. So grab a can of red or pink salmon and get cooking, your next flavorful and satisfying meal is just minutes away!