If you’ve never tasted Southern Salmon Patties, you’re in for a treat! These golden, crispy patties are packed with flavorful salmon, tender breadcrumbs, and a touch of Southern flair. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to serve up at a family gathering, these salmon patties will quickly become your new go-to recipe. Trust me, they’re simple, tasty, and oh-so-satisfying.
Why You’ll Love Southern Salmon Patties
This dish is the perfect blend of comfort food and fresh flavors. From the crispy exterior to the tender, flaky interior, these salmon patties are irresistible! Here’s why you’ll be hooked on them:
Versatile:
Southern Salmon Patties are perfect for any meal of the day. Serve them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner – they work just about anytime!
Budget-Friendly:
Using canned salmon makes this dish an affordable option, but you’d never know it! You’ll feel like you’re indulging in something fancy without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy:
These patties come together in no time. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes!
Customizable:
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Want a kick of spice? Add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Prefer them mild? Keep it simple with just a pinch of salt and pepper.
Crowd-Pleasing:
They’re easy to make in bulk, so they’re perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, they’re great for picky eaters who might shy away from a full-on fish fillet!
Ingredients in Southern Salmon Patties
You won’t need a lot to make these flavorful patties, and I bet you already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. Let’s break down what you’ll need:
Canned Salmon:
The star of the show! Canned salmon makes this dish quick and affordable while still delivering that beautiful salmon flavor.
Bread Crumbs:
Bread crumbs are the binder that helps hold these patties together. They also help achieve that crispy outer texture we all love.
Egg:
The egg helps bind everything together and adds a touch of richness to the patties.
Onion:
A little bit of finely chopped onion adds a savory flavor and helps round out the taste.
Mayonnaise:
Mayonnaise brings creaminess and moisture to the patties, making them tender on the inside. It also adds a bit of richness.
Mustard:
A splash of mustard gives a nice tangy kick to balance out the richness of the salmon and mayo.
Seasoning:
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika – these seasonings add just the right amount of flavor. Adjust them to your taste, of course!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Ready to make these crispy, flavorful patties? Let’s get started!
Prep the Salmon:
Start by draining the canned salmon and removing any skin or bones (if desired). You can leave the skin on for added flavor and nutrients if you prefer.
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the salmon, bread crumbs, egg, chopped onion, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings. Mix everything together until well combined. You want the mixture to be moist but not too wet – if it’s too dry, add a little more mayo or a splash of milk to help bind it.
Form the Patties:
Using your hands, form the salmon mixture into small patties. You can make them as big or as small as you like, but typically they’re about the size of a burger patty.
Cook the Patties:
Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the patties to the skillet, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. You want that perfect, crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and flaky.
Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate to remove any excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these Southern Salmon Patties warm, paired with your favorite sides. They’re great with a side of coleslaw, steamed veggies, or even on a bun for a salmon burger!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 240
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
How to Serve Southern Salmon Patties
These patties are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides:
- Serve with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a fun twist.
- Pair with a simple salad, like a mixed green salad or a coleslaw, for a fresh balance to the savory patties.
- Place them on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a salmon burger that’s just as tasty as it is filling.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- If you prefer a crunchier patty, you can dip the formed patties in additional breadcrumbs before frying.
- For extra flavor, try adding a bit of lemon zest or dill to the mixture.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal.
FAQ’s
- Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, you can. Just cook the salmon beforehand and flake it up to use in the patties. - Can I make these salmon patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time, cover them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. - How do I make the patties crispier?
If you want extra crispiness, you can coat the patties with more breadcrumbs or even panko before frying. - Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! You can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier version. - Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. - Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can substitute the salmon with tuna or any other canned fish you prefer. - Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free. - How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet, and let the patties firm up in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before frying. - Can I use a food processor to mix the ingredients?
Sure! A food processor can help break up the salmon and mix everything more evenly, but be careful not to over-process the mixture. - What should I serve with these salmon patties?
They go wonderfully with mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or a fresh side salad!
Conclusion
These Southern Salmon Patties are crispy, flavorful, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, they’re sure to be a hit. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these patties bring comfort food to the next level. Happy cooking, and enjoy every savory bite!
Print
Southern Salmon Patties
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 10min
- Total Time: 20min
- Yield: 4 patties
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
Southern salmon patties are a delicious and crispy dish made with canned salmon, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. These flavorful patties are pan-fried to perfection and can be served with a variety of sides. They make for an easy, tasty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
– 1 can (14.75 oz) salmon, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper (if using), mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the patties from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
Notes
– You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
– These patties can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
– Serve with a side of coleslaw, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 70mg