Southern Fried Salmon Patties

Southern Fried Salmon Patties – Crispy & Flavorful

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a beloved classic! Packed with flavor, protein, and Southern charm, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, brunch, or a comforting meal with family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples.
• Crispy & Tender: Crunchy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior.
• Affordable & Nutritious: Canned salmon provides protein and calcium.
• Customizable: Add seasonings like Cajun spice or smoked paprika for extra kick.

Ingredients & Their Purpose

Ingredient	Quantity	Role in Recipe
Salmon, canned (14¾ oz)	1 can	Provides protein, rich flavor, and moisture. Bones can be left in for calcium.
Finely chopped onion	¼ cup	Adds subtle sharpness and enhances the savory taste.
Cornmeal	¼ cup	Gives patties a classic Southern crunch.
All-purpose flour	¼ cup	Helps bind the ingredients and balances texture.
Large egg	1	Essential for binding the mixture together.
Mayonnaise	3 tablespoons	Adds moisture and a slight tang, keeping patties juicy.

Step 1: Drain and Flake the Salmon

Open the can of salmon and drain off excess liquid. Place the salmon in a large bowl and flake it gently with a fork. Leaving small bones intact is optional and adds calcium.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In your large mixing bowl with the flaked salmon, add the ¼ cup finely chopped onion, ¼ cup cornmeal, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 1 large egg, and 3 tablespoons mayonnaise. Use a fork or your hands to gently fold the ingredients together. Be careful not to overmix—the mixture should hold together but remain tender. Overmixing can make the patties dense and dry instead of light and moist.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into 6–8 patties, each about ½-inch thick. Make sure the edges are smooth and even so that they cook uniformly. Let the formed patties rest for 5 minutes; this helps the cornmeal and flour absorb moisture, preventing them from falling apart during frying.

Step 4: Prepare the Skillet

In a large skillet, pour in ¼ inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium heat. You want the oil hot enough that the patties sizzle when added, but not smoking. A cast-iron skillet is highly recommended for even browning and authentic Southern flavor.

Step 5: Fry the Patties

Carefully place the salmon patties in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for about 3–4 minutes on the first side, until golden brown and crisp. Flip gently with a spatula and fry the other side for another 3–4 minutes. The patties should be cooked through, with a crispy golden exterior and tender, flavorful interior.

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Remove the fried salmon patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This ensures the patties hold their shape and maintain optimal texture.

Pro Tips for Perfect Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Use canned salmon with skin and bones for authentic flavor and added calcium; just remove any large bones if desired.
• Do not overheat the oil. Medium heat ensures the patties cook through without burning the exterior.
• Gently press the patties with a spatula during frying for even contact with the skillet and uniform browning.
• Optional seasoning: add Cajun spice, smoked paprika, or a pinch of Old Bay to the mixture for an extra Southern kick.
• Resting the patties before frying and after cooking improves texture and prevents breakage.

Step 7: Flavor Enhancements

For added richness, serve the patties with a dab of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for visual appeal and a fresh, bright flavor contrast. Pairing with creamy sides like coleslaw or mashed potatoes balances the crispiness and makes a complete, hearty Southern meal.

Serving Suggestions

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Classic Southern Style: Serve with buttery grits and fried green tomatoes for a true Southern brunch or dinner.
• Comfort Meal: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or fried potatoes and a side of sautéed vegetables.
• Light & Fresh: Serve with a crisp coleslaw, cucumber salad, or mixed greens for a lighter option.
• Sandwich Option: Place patties on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce for a quick and satisfying sandwich.
• Accompaniments: Add a slice of sweet cornbread and a tall glass of iced tea to complete the Southern experience.

Tips for Meal Prep and Leftovers

• Cook extra patties and refrigerate for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet over low-medium heat to maintain crispiness.
• Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Keep sides separate when storing leftovers to maintain texture and freshness.
• Use parchment paper or silicone mats when baking in the oven for an alternative to frying, keeping them lighter while still crispy.

Optional Flavor Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a subtle heat.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh dill, parsley, or chives to brighten the flavor.
• Cheesy Patties: Add a tablespoon of shredded cheddar or pepper jack into each patty for melty pockets of cheese.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest in the batter adds freshness and cuts through richness.

Conclusion

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are the perfect blend of simplicity, affordability, and soul-satisfying flavor. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, they make for a memorable meal that’s both comforting and quick to prepare. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a brunch gathering, or a nostalgic taste of Southern cuisine, these patties deliver flavor, texture, and a little bit of Southern charm in every bite.

With versatile serving options, easy storage, and plenty of opportunities to customize, this recipe is designed to become a staple in your home kitchen. Enjoy them warm with sides, in sandwiches, or as a main course for any occasion—these patties will quickly become a go-to favorite!