Freezing cooked salmon patties can extend their shelf life for several months. However, proper storage and reheating methods are important to maintain quality and safety. Here is a detailed look at freezing cooked salmon patties, storage times, thawing and reheating tips, and signs of spoiled patties.
Can You Freeze Cooked Salmon Patties?
Yes, freezing cooked salmon patties is safe and a great way to extend their shelf life. Salmon patties made from fresh, properly handled salmon can typically be frozen for 2-3 months. After freezing, the patties will still be safe to eat but may suffer some loss of quality in terms of texture and flavor.
Salmon patties containing breadcrumbs or other binders will maintain their texture and moisture better during freezing compared to plain salmon patties. The breadcrumbs or binders help protect the salmon from freezer burn.
How to Freeze Cooked Salmon Patties
Follow these steps for best results when freezing cooked salmon patties:
- Allow patties to cool completely after cooking. Freezing warm patties can lead to excess moisture loss.
- Place patties in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching each other.
- Freeze until solid, about 2-3 hours. Transfer frozen patties to an airtight freezer bag or container.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal the container.
- Label bag with contents and freeze-by date (about 2-3 months from freezing date).
- Store frozen salmon patties in the back of the freezer where temperature remains most consistent.
How Long Does Cooked Salmon Last in the Freezer?
Properly stored frozen salmon patties maintain best quality for:
- Fresh salmon patties: 2-3 months
- Canned salmon patties: 3-4 months
Patties will still be safe to consume after these times but may suffer more degradation in texture and flavor.
Thawing Frozen Salmon Patties
Always thaw frozen salmon patties properly in the refrigerator or microwave before cooking and eating.
Refrigerator thawing: Place frozen patties in a single layer in a container to catch drips. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or up to 24 hours for a large batch. Cook thawed patties within 1-2 days.
Microwave thawing: Place frozen patties in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer. Microwave at 30 second intervals until patties are pliable and thawed. Cook immediately after microwaving.
Do not thaw patties on the counter or in hot water. This allows bacteria to grow and increases risk of foodborne illness.
How to Reheat Frozen Salmon Patties
To reheat frozen patties:
- Thaw patties properly in the refrigerator or microwave.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Place thawed patties on a parchment lined baking sheet.
- Bake 8-10 minutes until heated through.
- Patties can also be pan fried in a small amount of oil over medium-high heat until warmed through and slightly browned on both sides.
- Only reheat thawed patties once. Do not refreeze.
How to Know if Frozen Salmon Patties Go Bad
Check thawed salmon patties closely for signs of spoilage before cooking:
- Change in color: Raw salmon is pink to orange-red when fresh. As it spoils, the color fades to grey or brown.
- Dull, slimy texture: Fresh patties will have a firm, glossy appearance. Spoiled patties may have a dull, slimy texture.
- Off odors: Fresh salmon has a mild, briny smell. Foul, fishy odors indicate spoilage.
- Mold growth: Mold or white fungal growth on the patties signals they should be discarded.
If thawed patties have any signs of spoilage, it is safest to throw them out. Do not taste or cook spoiled salmon.
Can You Refreeze Thawed Salmon Patties?
Previously frozen salmon patties that have been thawed in the refrigerator can be safely refrozen:
- The patties must have been continually refrigerated and kept at 40°F or below after thawing.
- There should be no signs of spoilage like off-colors, odors, or slime.
- Refreeze the patties right away. Do not keep refrigerated for more than 1-2 days before refreezing.
- The patties may lose more moisture and texture with each freeze-thaw cycle.
For best quality, try to cook thawed patties immediately instead of refreezing.
Storing Thawed Salmon Patties
Refrigerate thawed salmon patties in an airtight container and use within:
- 1-2 days for patties thawed in the refrigerator
- Immediately for patties thawed in the microwave
Cooked patties that were frozen in an airtight freezer bag or container can also be returned to the same sealed container and refrigerated for 1-2 days.
Do not leave thawed patties sitting out longer than 2 hours at room temperature.
Conclusion
Freezing cooked salmon patties can extend their shelf life for a few months. Follow proper storage methods and signs of spoilage to determine if previously frozen patties are still safe to eat. Thaw in the refrigerator or microwave before reheating for food safety.