Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, crispy, and insanely flavorful dish, these Southern Fried Salmon Patties are about to become your new favorite. With a perfectly golden crust and tender, flaky center, these patties are an irresistible comfort food. They’re ready in just 25 minutes, making them absolutely ideal for those frantic weeknights when you need a homemade meal without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and a single bowl, making it unbelievably easy to prepare.
• Crispy and Delicious: The golden crust from the cornmeal adds the perfect crunch, while the inside stays moist and flavorful.
• Budget-Friendly: Using canned salmon offers incredible value without sacrificing flavor, making it a practical choice for families.
• Versatile: These patties can be served as a main dish, a sandwich filler, or even over a salad. They’re incredibly flexible for different occasions!

this Recipe

Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples, and you’re halfway to enjoying these irresistible salmon patties:

• Canned Salmon: The star ingredient—make sure to drain the can and flake the salmon for even texture.
• Onion: Finely chopped to add a pop of sweetness and aromatic depth to the patties.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind everything together, while keeping the patties soft inside.
• Cornmeal: Offers that signature southern crunch on the outside—this is non-negotiable for that perfect crisp!
• Egg: Acts as the glue, keeping your patties from falling apart.
• Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy richness and keeps the patties moist throughout.
• Oil: For frying. Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for the best results.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the savory notes of the salmon. Don’t skimp!

Tip: If you’d like a zesty twist, toss in a dash of paprika or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra flavor.

Variations

Switch things up with some fun adaptations!

• Add Herbs: Mix in chopped parsley or dill for fresh, herby undertones.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a bit of a kick!
• Upgrade the Onion: Swap the regular onion for green onions or shallots for a more delicate flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Cheesy Option: Mix in a handful of shredded cheddar for a luscious, cheesy variation.

How to Make Southern Fried Salmon Patties

Here’s how you can whip up these salmon patties, step-by-step. Trust me, it’s as easy as it gets:

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

After draining the canned salmon, transfer it to a mixing bowl. Use a fork to gently flake and break it apart. This ensures the patties will hold together nicely while cooking.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

To the salmon, add your finely chopped onion, flour, cornmeal, egg, mayonnaise, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive mixture—don’t overmix, just enough to bind everything.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Using your hands, form the mixture into burger-sized patties, pressing gently to hold their shape. Aim for uniform patties so they cook evenly in the skillet.

Step 4: Fry to Perfection

Heat about an inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the patties in carefully. Fry them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Fry a few patties at a time to maintain that perfect, even crisp.
• Drain Well: Pat the salmon dry before mixing to prevent watery patties.
• Test the Oil Temperature: Drop a small piece of batter into the oil; it should sizzle but not burn immediately.
• Make Ahead Tip: Form the patties ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry.

How to Serve

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are super versatile, so get creative. Here are some serving ideas:

• Classic Southern Style: Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, and a side of tartar sauce.
• As a Sandwich: Tuck a patty into a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayo or spicy aioli for a killer salmon burger.
• Over a Salad: Lay them over a fresh salad mix, with vinaigrette or creamy dressing, for a lighter option.
• With Dipping Sauce: Pair with a simple lemon-dill yogurt sauce or hot honey for a tangy or spicy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooked salmon patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Want to stash some for later? Cool the patties completely, then place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until fully frozen. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftover patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 375°F until warmed through. For frozen patties, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Absolutely! Cook your fresh salmon, flake it, and proceed with the recipe as usual. Fresh salmon will lend an even more luxurious flavor to the patties.

2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F, place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle lightly with oil, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.

3. Why are my patties falling apart?
This could happen if there’s insufficient binder (egg and mayo). Make sure your mixture isn’t too dry, and handle the patties gently while shaping and frying.

4. Can I make these dairy-free?
Of course! Just omit the mayonnaise or swap it for a dairy-free alternative.

Final Thoughts

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are everything you want in a weeknight meal—easy, flavorful, crispy, and versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe will bring you comfort and joy with every bite. Go ahead and try it—you might just discover your new go-to meal!

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