Growing up in the American South, salmon patties have long been a cherished staple of home cooking, combining affordability with incredible flavor. This treasured recipe transforms simple canned salmon into golden-crispy patties that are crispy on the outside and wonderfully moist inside. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or trying to recreate your grandmother’s famous recipe, these Southern Fried Salmon Patties deliver comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These salmon patties are the perfect blend of crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. The combination of cornmeal and flour creates an authentic Southern coating, while mayonnaise keeps the patties incredibly moist. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Recipe Card
Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6 patties
Ingredients
- 1 (14¾ oz / 418g) can salmon, drained
- ¼ cup (40g) onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup (35g) cornmeal
- ¼ cup (31g) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons (45g) mayonnaise
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Remove any visible bones (optional – they’re edible and calcium-rich) and flake the salmon with a fork.
- Add finely chopped onion, cornmeal, flour, egg, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, about ½-inch (1.3cm) thick.
- Heat ¼ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place patties in the hot oil and fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties
- Drain the salmon thoroughly to ensure patties hold together well
- Let the oil heat properly before adding patties – test with a small piece of the mixture
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – leave space between patties
- Use a fish spatula for easier flipping
- Press patties gently when forming to ensure they hold together while cooking
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute the cornmeal with breadcrumbs for a different texture
- Add finely diced bell peppers for extra crunch and color
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version
- Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for additional flavor
- Spice it up with cayenne pepper or Old Bay seasoning
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate cooked patties for up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months – separate with parchment paper
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes until warmed through
- The mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator
Nutritional Information (per patty)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 390mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use cooked, flaked fresh salmon. Make sure it’s well-flaked and slightly drier than you’d normally serve it.
Q: Why are my salmon patties falling apart?
A: This usually happens if the mixture is too wet. Make sure to drain the salmon well and don’t skip the binding ingredients (egg and mayo).
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but still delicious.
Q: Are the bones in canned salmon safe to eat?
A: Yes! The bones in canned salmon are completely safe and highly nutritious, providing extra calcium. They’re soft and crush easily into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy salmon patties with:
- Homemade remoulade sauce
- Fresh lemon wedges
- Southern-style coleslaw
- Mashed potatoes
- Green salad
- Tartar sauce
Perfect for lunch or dinner, these Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a budget-friendly way to get more seafood into your diet while enjoying the comfort of traditional Southern cooking. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful interior that’s sure to become a family favorite.
