Bring a taste of the South to your table with these Southern Fried Salmon Patties. Made with pantry staples and seasoned to perfection, these golden-brown patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of rich, savory flavors. Whether served as a main dish or a comforting appetizer, these patties are a delightful nod to classic Southern cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, these patties are ideal for busy weeknights.
Economical: Canned salmon is affordable and makes this dish accessible without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: The crispy, golden exterior and flavorful interior make these patties a hit with kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Serve as a main dish, sandwich filler, or even as part of a breakfast spread with eggs.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to fit your taste preferences.

Key Ingredients

Pink Salmon: Canned salmon is the star of this dish, offering a rich, flaky texture and a burst of omega-3s. Drain and flake it thoroughly for the best results.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and help the patties hold their shape during frying.

Onion and Bell Pepper: These finely chopped vegetables add a touch of sweetness and a delightful crunch to the patties.

Yellow Cornmeal: Adds a slight grit and extra crispiness to the patties, enhancing their texture.

Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and moisture, ensuring the patties stay tender and flavorful.

Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a tangy, umami-rich depth that complements the salmon beautifully.

Hot Sauce: A dash of hot sauce like Texas Pete gives the patties a subtle heat that can be adjusted to taste.

Bread Crumbs and Flour: Crumbled white bread creates a soft, cohesive texture, while flour helps adjust the mixture’s consistency for easy shaping.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Drain the Salmon: Thoroughly drain the salmon and remove any large bones if desired.
Flake the Salmon: Place the flaked salmon into a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Ingredients

To the bowl with the salmon, add:
2 eggs (beaten)
Diced onion
Diced bell pepper
Cornmeal
Salt
Garlic powder
Mayonnaise
Worcestershire sauce
Hot sauce (to taste)
Black pepper
Crumbled bread

Step 3: Combine and Adjust Mixture

Mix Gently: Use a spoon or your hands to gently combine the ingredients until evenly mixed.
Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add flour until it thickens enough to hold its shape.

Step 4: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into 4 portions.
Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2-inch thick.

Step 5: Fry the Patties

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough shortening or oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet.
Fry each patty for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Serve the patties warm, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or paired with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Classic Southern Meal: Serve with creamy coleslaw, cornbread, and mashed potatoes for a traditional Southern feast.
Light and Fresh: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
Breakfast Spread: Serve alongside scrambled eggs and grits for a hearty Southern-style breakfast.
Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of tartar sauce, spicy aioli, or remoulade for added flavor.
Sandwich Option: Place a patty between two slices of toasted bread or a bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze uncooked or cooked patties. Separate layers with parchment paper, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

Variations

Spicy Patties: Add diced jalapeños or an extra dash of hot sauce for a bolder kick.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a bright, aromatic flavor.
Cheesy Twist: Incorporate shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the mixture for an indulgent touch.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
Seafood Medley: Combine canned salmon with crabmeat or shrimp for a decadent seafood patty.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a nostalgic dish that never goes out of style. With their crispy edges, savory seasonings, and satisfying texture, they’re the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re making them for dinner, brunch, or as a party appetizer, these patties are guaranteed to impress. Serve them up with your favorite sides and sauces, and enjoy this Southern classic that’s as timeless as it is delicious!