These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a delicious, crispy, and budget-friendly meal that packs a punch of flavor with just a few simple ingredients. This classic Southern recipe transforms canned salmon into golden, savory patties that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal. With a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful inside, these patties are a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. The addition of mayonnaise ensures they stay moist, while the cornmeal and flour create that perfect crunchy texture.
Ingredients Breakdown
1 (14 ¾ ounce) can salmon – Canned salmon is convenient and affordable, providing a rich source of protein and omega-3s. It serves as the base of the patties, giving them a robust seafood flavor.
¼ cup onion, finely chopped – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the patties, enhancing the overall flavor.
¼ cup cornmeal – Contributes to the crispy exterior, giving the patties a nice crunch when fried.
¼ cup flour – Helps bind the patties and adds structure, ensuring they hold together while frying.
1 egg – Acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together and giving the patties stability as they cook.
3 tablespoons mayonnaise – Keeps the patties moist and prevents them from becoming dry. The mayo also adds a slight tang that complements the salmon perfectly.
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the salmon: Open the can of salmon and drain thoroughly. Transfer the drained salmon to a large mixing bowl and use a fork to flake the salmon into smaller pieces, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Mix the ingredients: Add the finely chopped onion, cornmeal, flour, egg, and mayonnaise to the bowl with the salmon. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
Form the patties: Using your hands, shape the salmon mixture into patties, roughly the size of an average burger. You should be able to get about 5-6 patties from this recipe, depending on the size you prefer.
Heat the skillet: In a large skillet, heat about 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to fry the patties but not so hot that they burn.
Fry the patties: Place the salmon patties in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy. Turn once during cooking to ensure even browning.
Drain and serve: Once the patties are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Why These Southern Fried Salmon Patties Are Loved
These salmon patties are cherished for their crispy exterior and moist, flavorful interior. The combination of salmon with simple pantry staples like onion, cornmeal, and mayonnaise makes for a quick yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The use of canned salmon makes this dish budget-friendly, while the Southern frying technique ensures the patties are perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.
Pro Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties
- Drain the salmon well: Be sure to remove as much moisture as possible from the salmon before mixing, as this will help the patties hold their shape.
- Use fresh or leftover salmon: While canned salmon is convenient, you can use freshly cooked or leftover salmon for a more elevated version of the dish.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Southern Fried Salmon Patties with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or hushpuppies. For a lighter meal, pair them with a green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also serve them on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce for a homemade salmon burger.
Conclusion
These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or whipping up a quick meal for yourself, these patties are sure to be a hit. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the bold flavors of salmon, onion, and mayo makes them a must-try dish.
Be sure to save this recipe and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! ❤️