Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is my go to answer for those nights when I want something cozy, crispy, and a little bit fresh all at once. You know the feeling when you are hungry now, but you do not want to deal with a complicated dinner or a sink full of dishes. This recipe hits that sweet spot because the patties can be made with pantry stuff, and the sauce tastes like you tried way harder than you did. I started making this after one too many sad desk lunches, and it honestly rescued my weekday routine. If you have canned salmon and a lemon hanging around, you are already halfway there.
You are going to love this Sauce for Salmon Patties!
I am not exaggerating when I say the dill sauce is the thing that makes the whole plate feel special. The patties are crispy and savory, but the sauce brings that cool, tangy pop that keeps you going back for another bite. It tastes bright from lemon, a little herby from dill, and creamy enough to feel comforting.
Also, it is super forgiving. If you like it more lemony, add more lemon. If you want more zip, add a pinch more mustard. It is one of those sauces that makes even simple salmon patties feel like something you would order at a casual cafe.
If you are already a dill sauce person, you will probably also love this baked keto salmon with creamy dill sauce. I make it when I want the same flavor vibe but with a hands off oven dinner.
One quick note from real life experience: this sauce is also amazing on roasted potatoes, cucumber slices, and even as a sandwich spread. I have absolutely swiped the last bit with a piece of toast while cleaning up, no shame.
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Ingredients for this Salmon Patty Sauce
Let’s keep this simple. You do not need fancy ingredients, and you can tweak it based on what is in your fridge. Here is what I use most of the time, plus a couple easy swaps.
What you will need
- Mayonnaise for the creamy base (Greek yogurt works too, or do half and half)
- Sour cream for tang and richness (more yogurt can replace it)
- Fresh dill (dried dill works in a pinch, just use less)
- Lemon juice for freshness
- Dijon mustard for a little bite
- Garlic powder or a small grated garlic clove
- Salt and black pepper
If you are making Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce for someone who hates dill (yes, those people exist), you can swap in parsley and a tiny bit of chives. It will not be the same, but it will still be good.
And if you are planning a whole salmon theme night, I have made this alongside air fryer salmon with lemon butter for a mix and match dinner spread. People can choose patties or fillets, and everyone stays happy.
“I made the dill sauce exactly as written and my family literally asked me to put it in a jar so we can keep it in the fridge all week. It made the salmon patties taste like restaurant food.”
How to make Sauce for Salmon Cakes
This is the easiest part of the whole meal, and you can make it while the patties are cooking. I actually prefer making it a few minutes ahead because the dill and lemon get a chance to settle in and taste more “together,” if that makes sense.
Quick step by step
1) In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise and sour cream.
2) Add chopped dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3) Taste it. This is where you make it yours. Add more lemon for brightness, a pinch more salt if it tastes flat, or a tiny bit more mustard if you want it sharper.
4) If you have time, cover and chill for 10 to 20 minutes.
Texture tip: if your sauce feels too thick, add a teaspoon of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up. If it feels too thin, add a spoon of mayo or sour cream and stir again.
Also, if you want to make a fun dessert on the side (like if you are feeding kids or just feeling snacky), these air fryer churro bites with chocolate dipping sauce are totally unrelated but weirdly perfect for a casual weekend dinner.
How to use this Dill Sauce for Salmon Patties
Okay, so you have your sauce ready. Here are my favorite ways to use it, beyond just plopping it on top (although that is always a solid plan).
The classic move is Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce served hot and crispy, with the sauce right on top so it melts slightly into the crusty edges. I like a generous spoonful, not a polite drizzle. If you are making these for guests, set the sauce in a bowl on the table so everyone can help themselves.
Here are a few easy serving ideas that do not require extra cooking stress:
- Serve with a simple green salad and extra lemon wedges.
- Make a salmon patty sandwich with lettuce and tomato, then spread dill sauce on the bun.
- Turn it into a bowl meal with rice or quinoa, sliced cucumbers, and sauce on top.
- Pair with roasted carrots or asparagus for a clean, easy side.
My favorite “nobody is impressed but everyone is full” dinner is salmon patties, a pile of quick oven fries, and this dill sauce in the middle like a little dipping centerpiece.
And just because I love a sauce moment, if you are building a holiday-ish plate, you could do something like a tart fruit sauce on the side for contrast. This simple paleo cranberry sauce with cherries is surprisingly good with savory foods too, especially if you like that sweet and tangy thing.
How to store Salmon Patties Sauce
If you are lucky enough to have leftover sauce, it stores really well. In fact, I think it tastes even better the next day because the dill and lemon have more time to mingle.
Here is how I do it:
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. A small jar works great.
Use it within 3 to 4 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Stir before using because it can separate a little as it sits.
Food safety note from my own kitchen habits: if you have been dipping used forks or double dipping salmon patties into the sauce bowl, do not save that leftover sauce. Just make a smaller amount next time or keep some aside for storing.
If you are meal prepping Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce, I recommend storing patties and sauce separately. Reheat the patties in a skillet or air fryer to keep them crisp, then add the cold sauce right before eating.
Also, if you want to make a second batch of that sweet tangy side for other meals, here is the same link again because I really do use it a lot: deliciously simple paleo cranberry sauce with cherries recipe.
Common Questions
Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Yes. Use less since dried dill is stronger. Start with about 1 teaspoon dried dill, then add more only if you need it.
What if I do not like mayonnaise?
You can swap the mayo for Greek yogurt or use mostly sour cream. It will be tangier and a bit lighter, but still creamy.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make it up to a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. It usually tastes even better after chilling.
How do I keep the salmon patties crispy?
Do not overcrowd the pan, and let them cook long enough to form a crust before flipping. If reheating, use an air fryer or skillet instead of the microwave.
Is this sauce only for salmon?
Nope. I use it on shrimp, roasted potatoes, and as a dip for raw veggies. It is a solid all purpose creamy lemon herb sauce.
Ready for your new favorite salmon dinner?
Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce is one of those simple meals that feels like a little treat, even on a random weeknight. The patties bring the crispy comfort, and the dill sauce gives you that fresh, creamy tang that makes everything taste brighter. If you want a reliable reference point, I also like comparing notes with Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce Recipe – Allrecipes and this Lemon Dill Salmon Patties Sauce – JZ Eats when I am in the mood to tweak ratios. Try it once, adjust it to your taste, and you will probably find yourself making extra sauce “just in case.”
Salmon Patties with Dill Sauce
Ingredients
For the Salmon Patties
- 1 can canned salmon drained and flaked
- 1 cup bread crumbs for binding
- 1 large egg to hold patties together
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
For the Dill Sauce
- 0.5 cup mayonnaise creamy base; Greek yogurt can be substituted
- 0.25 cup sour cream for tang and richness
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill chopped; or use dried dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice for freshness
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for added flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or a small grated garlic clove
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation of the Dill Sauce
- In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Add chopped dill, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Taste it and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon, salt, or mustard as preferred.
- If you have time, cover and chill for 10 to 20 minutes.
Making the Salmon Patties
- In a bowl, mix flaked salmon, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into patties.
- Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the salmon patties hot with a generous spoonful of dill sauce on top.
- Accompany with a simple green salad and extra lemon wedges.
