If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick to make and brimming with nostalgic flavors, look no further than Southern Salmon Patties. These golden, crispy patties are made with canned salmon, a handful of pantry staples, and a few simple seasonings. The result is a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and undeniably satisfying. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner after a long day or a tasty lunch that will leave you feeling full, this recipe has you covered. It’s an affordable, high-protein meal that’s perfect for a family-friendly meal and ideal for meal prep.
With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, Southern Salmon Patties come together quickly and taste delicious whether served with a tangy tartar sauce, a kick of hot sauce, or a creamy dill dip. Crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, they’re a versatile comfort food that pairs wonderfully with Southern sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread. Once you try them, they’ll likely become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: You can make these patties in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for quick family meals or a healthy comfort food option on a busy weeknight.
- Budget-friendly: Made with pantry-friendly ingredients like canned salmon and breadcrumbs, these patties are affordable and easy to stock up on.
- Versatile: While the classic version is great on its own, these patties can be served with different sauces or turned into sliders for a fun twist.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and store the patties in the freezer for a quick meal anytime.
- Customizable: You can spice them up with hot sauce or swap in ingredients like Dijon mustard or fresh herbs to suit your taste.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity of Southern Salmon Patties. Made from pantry staples, the dish is easy to prepare but packed with flavor. The combination of tender salmon, crispy breadcrumbs, and a light pan-fry creates a comforting and filling meal, while the subtle onion and garlic add depth to the flavor profile. The mayonnaise or mustard gives the patties a creamy, rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.
What makes these patties even more special is their versatility. They can be made spicier with the addition of jalapeños or hot sauce, or kept simple with just a squeeze of lemon juice. You can even go lighter and bake the patties for a healthier alternative. Regardless of how you make them, Southern Salmon Patties are a nostalgic dish that brings the comfort of Southern cooking into your home, all while keeping things easy and low-maintenance.
Ingredients
For the perfect Southern Salmon Patties, you’ll need the following:
- Canned salmon (drained and flaked, bones and skin removed if desired)
- Onion, finely chopped (adds sweetness and a bit of texture)
- Egg (for binding everything together)
- Cornmeal and/or crushed saltine crackers (for texture and to help bind the patties)
- Mayonnaise or Dijon mustard (for creaminess and a bit of tang)
- Salt, pepper, and optional spices (like Old Bay seasoning or cayenne pepper for some heat)
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil, canola, or shortening work great)
Pro Tip: If you want a little more flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of garlic powder to the mixture. It’ll take the flavor up a notch without much effort!
How to Make It Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Start by draining the canned salmon and removing any bones and skin. You can leave the bones in if you prefer—they’re soft and edible, but if you’d like to remove them, it’s entirely up to you. Flake the salmon with a fork until it’s broken up into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon with finely chopped onion, the egg, cornmeal (or crushed saltines), and your choice of mayonnaise or Dijon mustard. Add salt, pepper, and any other spices you’d like to use (Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper all work wonderfully). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, but be careful not to overmix—this will keep the patties from becoming too dense.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Once the mixture is combined, divide it into 4 to 6 portions and form them into patties. The mixture should be moist but hold together when you shape it. If it feels too loose, add a little more cornmeal or crushed saltines until you get a good texture. The patties should be about ¾ inch thick.
Step 4: Fry the Patties
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the pan. Fry them for 3–5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You may need to adjust the heat to avoid burning the patties. Make sure to flip them carefully so they don’t break apart.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once the patties are golden and crispy, remove them from the skillet and drain them on paper towels to get rid of any excess oil. Serve the patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes, and enjoy!
Tips for Best Results
- Chill the mixture: If you have the time, refrigerate the salmon mixture for about 30 minutes before shaping the patties. This will help the patties hold together better when frying.
- Fry at the right temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside stays raw. If it’s not hot enough, the patties will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Medium heat is ideal for a perfectly crispy crust.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the ingredients will result in dense, tough patties. Mix just until everything is combined.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs: If you have them, use fresh breadcrumbs instead of prepackaged ones for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Healthier Option: For a lighter version, try baking the patties at 375°F for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will give you a crispy exterior without the added oil.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs or saltines for a gluten-free option.
- Spicy Version: If you love heat, add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick. It’s a great way to add some extra flavor.
- Flavor Twist: For a refreshing twist, add fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or even lemon zest to the mixture. You could also stir in some chopped bell peppers for added crunch and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with traditional Southern sides:
- Coleslaw: Creamy, tangy, and crunchy, it’s a perfect complement to the rich flavor of the salmon patties.
- Cornbread: Light and fluffy cornbread pairs beautifully with the patties for a truly comforting meal.
- Green Beans: Fresh or sautéed green beans bring a nice balance of crunch and freshness that contrasts nicely with the salmon patties.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a drizzle of gravy make a hearty side dish that works well with the crispy patties.
Make a sandwich or slider:
Serve the patties on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious salmon patty sandwich or sliders for a fun appetizer at your next gathering.
Pairing Ideas
- Tartar Sauce: Classic and tangy, tartar sauce is a perfect dipping option for these patties. You can also make a homemade version with mayonnaise, pickles, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Hot Sauce: If you like some heat, a few dashes of hot sauce will bring a fiery kick to the patties.
- Creamy Dill Sauce: A yogurt-based dill sauce or a creamy dill dip complements the flavors of the salmon while adding a refreshing twist.
- Lemon Wedges: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the patties for a burst of brightness that balances the richness of the fish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes per side until they’re crispy again. If you don’t have time to fry them again, you can also use the microwave, though the texture may not be as crispy.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips
Southern Salmon Patties are great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. You can refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours before frying them. Alternatively, freeze the uncooked patties by laying them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freezing until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for storage. When you’re ready to cook, just fry them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes per side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many patties at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy patties. Fry in batches to ensure each patty gets crispy.
- Under-seasoning: Make sure to taste the mixture before shaping the patties. You may need to adjust the seasoning to your liking.
- Not using enough binder: If your patties are falling apart, it could be because there isn’t enough binder. Add more breadcrumbs or saltines to help hold them together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh salmon?
Yes, fresh salmon works just as well. Simply cook and flake it before using it in the recipe.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying them. This is great for meal prep.
Can I freeze these patties?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked patties and cook them from frozen. They will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet for frying
- Mixing bowl for the patty mixture
- Knife and cutting board for chopping onions and herbs
- Measuring spoons for accurate seasoning
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Southern Salmon Patties
Ingredients
- 2 cans salmon (14–15 oz each), drained and flaked
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- to taste salt and black pepper
- 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, beaten egg, breadcrumbs (or crushed saltines), mayonnaise, chopped onion, parsley, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the mixture into 4–6 patties, depending on your desired size. If the mixture is too loose, add a little more breadcrumbs or saltines.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties and fry for 3–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite sauce, such as tartar sauce, hot sauce, or a creamy dill dip.
