Southern Fried Salmon Patties

I have a “thing” for salmon patties. I love when I have the time to make them myself so I can really make sure they taste the way I want them to. They come out so much better with real effort.

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a great way to add more of this healthy fish into your diet. Salmon is filled with Omega-3 Fatty Acids, which is the fat that is recommended we get more of in life. That is easy to do when you taste Salmon Patties that taste this scrumptious! These Salmon Patties are easy to make and even easier to eat. All that is needed are a few ingredients and patience to wait for the Salmon Patties to cook properly.

Really? Yes, they are good for you. Does it matter? Not really, because they feel like a treat. This recipe is one I go to frequently when I want something that feels like a special meal but doesn’t take long to put on the table. These Salmon Patties are kid-friendly, healthy, and the perfect way to satisfy your cravings for savory food. With the perfect blend of spices, these Salmon Patties taste better than you could find in a Five Star Restaurant, and they are made right in your own kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love Southern Fried Salmon Patties

These are the best Southern Fried Salmon Patties ever for several reasons. I think they are easy to make because they use canned salmon. You just need a few pantry staples, a skillet, and about 20 minutes. It’s also a recipe where the ingredients are flexible. You can lean into different seasonings and still end up with something worth eating.

Of course, you have to have something that tastes good, too. These Salmon Patties are savory and delicious. This is by far the best Southern fried salmon patty recipe for flavor. Even my friend’s children, who have never touched salmon before, loved them. That’s saying a lot. They are a better option for you. Salmon Patties also contain Omega-3 Fatty Acids, so changing to a healthy diet does not mean the food tastes bad.

Ingredients

• Salmon drained
• Onion finely chopped
• All-purpose flour
• Cornmeal
• Egg
• Mayonnaise
• Oil for cooking
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Deep Dive

Herbs

One of the best ways to make this recipe your own is to change up the herbs you add. I have used rosemary with this recipe and have been pleased with the results. When I don’t have rosemary, dill or parsley do a nice job. You can always add fresh herbs such as rosemary to the mix to add some depth of flavor.

Lemon

You could add in some lemon zest to give a citrus taste and a zing that’s unlike other recipes. It’s a fantastic way to add flavor. You’ll want the fresh squeeze at the end as well, just before serving. It brightens the whole plate.

Higher Quality Salmon

For a healthy southern fried salmon patty version, use a higher quality canned salmon. I have used a variety of products, even the sale-priced products. Choose what you like and have used before. Do not go with something you have not tried. The taste does matter and can change the overall flavor. Higher quality brands tend to have better texture and less liquid in the can.

How to make Southern Fried Salmon Patties:

Step 1: Add Salmon to a Bowl.

Drain the salmon as you normally would. Then add it to a bowl. Use a fork to flake to lighten the consistency. When draining the salmon, be sure to squeeze the can tightly to get out any excess liquid. That is a key step to making sure these salmon patties come out nice and firm. It is also better to ensure the taste is concentrated.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients.

Next, add in all of the yummy ingredients. That should include the onion, flour, cornmeal, and the egg. Then, add the mayo and salt and pepper to taste. You can use whatever seasonings you prefer, but keeping it simple works best. Sometimes the best meals are the ones where the main ingredient gets to do most of the talking.

Step 3: Mix.

Use a fork to blend the ingredients together. Don’t mash it. Instead, use the tip of the fork to blend it. The salmon should still have some texture to it. If you overmix, the patties will end up too dense and won’t have that light, flaky bite you want. A few gentle folds go a long way.

Step 4: Create Your Patties.

Form the mixture into patties about the size of a burger. You choose what works for your tastes. I like to create bite-sized versions (adjusting the cook time a bit) and then serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce. It is up to you and your family’s preferences how big to make them.

Step 5: Cook Them Up!

Heat an inch or so of cooking oil over medium heat on the stove. When it starts to sizzle, that’s how you know it is ready. Place the patties in and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side. Be sure to cook the Salmon Patties evenly on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. That makes all the difference.

Serving & Pairings

I like to make this a meal that’s versatile with different sides every time. A salad is a must for cutting into the fatty grease. I also like to serve up whatever steamed veggie I have available. It also works super well with rice or quinoa as a side. 

And don’t sleep on roasted potatoes or Coleslaw as options. You can’t go wrong with either one. Plus, if you’re a tartar sauce fan, that’s always a winner alongside these patties.

Serving & Pairings

I like to make this a meal that’s versatile with different sides every time. A salad is a must for cutting into the fatty grease. I also like to serve up whatever steamed veggie I have available. It also works super well with rice or quinoa as a side. 

And don’t sleep on roasted potatoes or Coleslaw as options. You can’t go wrong with either one. Plus, if you’re a tartar sauce fan, that’s always a winner alongside these patties.

FAQ and Troubleshooting

How should Salmon Patties be stored?

Once cooled, place the food into an airtight container. You can then store the container in the refrigerator for 2 or 3 days.

Can I store the Salmon Patties in the freezer?

Yes, these can be stored in the freezer. Be sure the Southern Salmon Patties have cooled completely. You can then place them in an airtight and freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How should I reheat the patties?

If they are frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat the Southern Fried Salmon Patties, place them on a baking tray, cover them with foil, and place them in a preheated 350 degree oven until heated through. You could also place them on a plate, cover them with a paper towel, and microwave until the desired temperature is reached.

Are these easy Southern fried salmon patties for beginners?

Salmon patties seem like a complicated meal, but they don’t have to be. With a few homemade southern fried salmon patties ideas like this recipe, you can customize it to fit your needs. However, this is an easy foundation recipe. Just dump it in and mix away.

Can I use butter to fry the salmon patties?

You could use butter, with a bit of oil, but they may not be the healthy southern fried salmon patties version here. The butter will add calories, but it packs flavor alongside it.

How can I make these family-friendly southern fried salmon patties?

Most of the ingredients in this recipe are simple and straightforward. They’re just what kids will like. You can also make them dippers in different shapes to make them more kid-friendly.

If you’re looking for more ways to use salmon in your home to get more of that nutrient goodness, consider these recipes. It’s easy to love salmon when you can prep it in numerous ways.

Honey Garlic Salmon – This Honey Garlic Salmon is the perfect way to serve salmon and it’s so easy and very quick dinner idea!

Teriyaki Salmon –

This Baked Teriyaki Salmon recipe was a HIT! You won’t be disappointed! Find the recipe card at the end of the post.

Honey Garlic Salmon – Easy and very quick salmon dinner idea!