Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and flake the salmon before mixing. Fresh salmon brings a milder flavor and a meatier texture to the patties, making for a special treat. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers.

How do I keep my patties from falling apart?

The key is to make sure your mixture is well-bound with enough egg and mayonnaise. If the patties feel too loose, add a little more flour or cornmeal. Handle gently when forming and frying—they will firm up as they cook.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can! Arrange the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, but this is a lighter, hands-off option.

What dipping sauces go well with these salmon patties?

Classic tartar sauce always shines, but you can also try remoulade, spicy mayo, or even a simple squeeze of lemon. These patties are mingle-friendly and pair well with creams, herbs, or even hot sauce for an extra punch.

Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe

Name: Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 can salmon, drained; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; Salt and pepper, to taste; Oil, for cooking (enough for about 1 inch in pan)

Pull up a chair and imagine the irresistible aroma of golden, sizzling Southern Fried Salmon Patties wafting through your kitchen. This recipe is the type of quick and comforting meal that brings back memories of family suppers—warm, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Best of all, you can have these crispy patties on the table in under 30 minutes, making them a gift for busy nights when you need a delicious meal with minimal effort. Each patty delivers a gentle crunch on the outside and tender, savory goodness within, with just enough seasoning and richness to tempt you back for seconds. If you’re craving comfort food that’s both speedy and downright scrumptious, this recipe is about to earn a permanent place in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Weeknight Friendly: These salmon patties come together faster than takeout, perfect for hectic evenings or last-minute dinners.
Flavor Packed: The subtle brininess of salmon, the sweet nip of finely chopped onion, and a hint of pepper—all wrapped up in a golden, crispy bite.
Minimal Cleanup: Just one bowl to mix and a skillet to fry—hardly any dishes, more time to relax.
Versatile: Serve them as burgers, sliders, or even broken onto salads—endless possibilities for creativity.
Budget-Conscious: Using canned salmon keeps things economical without sacrificing taste or protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Canned Salmon: The heart of the dish—use wild-caught if you can for pure flavor. Make sure to drain thoroughly and remove bones or skin for the best texture.
Onion: Finely chopped for a sweet, aromatic bite in every mouthful.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind everything together, holding the patties’ structure.
Cornmeal: For classic Southern crunch—a non-negotiable ingredient, in my humble opinion!
Egg: Acts as the ultimate binder, keeping those patties tender yet firm.
Mayonnaise: Adds a touch of creaminess and moisture, ensuring the patties don’t dry out.
Oil for Cooking: Go for a neutral oil like vegetable or canola, great for frying.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Taste as you mix!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Switch things up as you like—these are incredibly forgiving and crowd-pleasing!

Spicy Swap: Add Old Bay, smoked paprika, or a dash of cayenne for a little kick.
Fresh Herbs: Throw in chopped parsley, dill, or chives for brightness.
Cheese Lover’s Twist: Fold in a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before forming the patties.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for rice flour or a gluten-free blend.
Upgrade with Fresh Salmon: If you have leftover cooked salmon, flake it and use in place of canned.

How to Make Southern Fried Salmon Patties

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

Start by draining your canned salmon thoroughly. Place it in a large bowl and gently flake it apart with a fork—this helps you spot any bones or bits of skin, which are easy to remove.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

Add in your chopped onion, flour, cornmeal, egg, mayonnaise, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well so that all the ingredients are evenly distributed—your hands or a sturdy spoon work perfectly.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Scoop up portions of the mixture and shape them into patties, roughly the size of a burger. Press them gently together; they should hold without crumbling.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat about an inch of oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers (but isn’t smoking), gently lower the patties in. Fry until the undersides are a deep, golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Carefully flip and finish the other side until cooked through and beautifully crisp.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Remove the patties from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve immediately, piping hot and irresistible.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Temperature is Key: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties (drop in a little mixture—it should sizzle right away).
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches if necessary; keeping some room helps the patties crisp instead of steam.
Size Matters: Smaller patties are easier to flip and manage if you’re new to pan-frying.
Gentle Flip: Use a wide spatula and flip with care to avoid breakage—letting them cook fully on the first side helps keep them intact.

How to Serve

Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a true blank canvas, playing well with an array of side dishes and toppings.

Classic Style:

Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, tartar sauce, and a scoop of coleslaw for a full Southern plate.

Light & Fresh:

Serve on a bed of mixed greens with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

Sandwich It:

Tuck into a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a down-to-earth salmon burger.

Tip: These patties are equally at home as a main dish, appetizer, or even chopped on top of a salad for a hearty twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Their flavor often deepens after a night in the fridge.

Freezing

To freeze, layer cooled patties between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat for best texture. A few minutes per side revives their crispiness. Alternatively, pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook and flake the salmon before mixing. Fresh salmon brings a milder flavor and a meatier texture to the patties, making for a special treat. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers.
How do I keep my patties from falling apart?

The key is to make sure your mixture is well-bound with enough egg and mayonnaise. If the patties feel too loose, add a little more flour or cornmeal. Handle gently when forming and frying—they will firm up as they cook.
Can I bake these instead of frying?

You can! Arrange the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version, but this is a lighter, hands-off option.
What dipping sauces go well with these salmon patties?

Classic tartar sauce always shines, but you can also try remoulade, spicy mayo, or even a simple squeeze of lemon. These patties are mingle-friendly and pair well with creams, herbs, or even hot sauce for an extra punch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a meal that’s both nostalgic and impossibly simple, Southern Fried Salmon Patties are just the answer. They turn a handful of pantry staples into a golden, crispy bite of Southern comfort—speedy, affordable, and full of flavor. Don’t be shy about swapping in your favorite spices, adding a sprinkle of herbs, or building the ultimate salmon patty sandwich. Give them a try tonight—your kitchen (and your appetite) will thank you.