Southern Fried Salmon Patties – Crispy, Flavorful & Budget-Friendly
In the heart of Southern kitchens, where comfort food reigns supreme, there’s one humble dish that’s stood the test of time: Southern Fried Salmon Patties. Crispy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside, these golden bites of flavor are a beloved staple — especially for families looking for a delicious, affordable meal that comes together fast.
Made with pantry-friendly ingredients and just a few simple steps, salmon patties are perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or Sunday suppers. Whether you grew up eating them or are trying them for the first time, this Southern classic will quickly earn a spot in your regular meal rotation.
🐟 What Are Southern Salmon Patties?
Also called salmon croquettes, these savory cakes are made by combining canned salmon with breadcrumbs or cornmeal, onion, eggs, and seasonings — then pan-frying them until golden brown. They’re crispy, flavorful, and satisfyingly filling.
Unlike fancy fish cakes, Southern salmon patties are humble, hearty, and full of soul. They’re often served with hot sauce, grits, or a side of collard greens — and always with a generous helping of love.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Basic Salmon Patties:
1 (14.75 oz) can pink salmon (bones removed, or left in for added calcium)
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
2 large eggs
½ cup cornmeal or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream (for moisture)
1 teaspoon hot sauce or mustard (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onion (optional)
For Frying:
½ cup vegetable oil (or enough to shallow fry)
Cast iron or heavy skillet
👩🍳 How to Make Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Step 1: Drain and Prep the Salmon
Drain the canned salmon and remove any large bones or skin (optional — some folks leave them in for texture and nutrients).
Flake the fish with a fork in a large bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Patties
Add chopped onion, eggs, breadcrumbs (or cornmeal), mayonnaise, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together gently until it forms a thick, moldable mixture.
If it’s too wet, add a little more cornmeal or breadcrumbs. If too dry, add a splash of milk.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Shape the mixture into 6–8 patties, about ½ inch thick.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Once hot, fry patties for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and browned.
Drain on paper towels.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — give each patty room to crisp up.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Southern salmon patties pair well with:
Creamy grits or mashed potatoes
Collard greens, cabbage, or green beans
Fried okra or cornbread
Tartar sauce, hot sauce, or remoulade
Or keep it simple and serve them on a sandwich bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo.
💵 Why They’re So Budget-Friendly
Canned salmon is affordable and shelf-stable, often under $3 a can.
You likely already have the other ingredients at home (breadcrumbs, eggs, onions).
One can makes enough for 3–4 people — making this one of the best bang-for-your-buck Southern meals around.
🧠 Tips for Perfect Salmon Patties
Use a hot skillet so the patties sear quickly without absorbing too much oil.
For extra crunch, coat the patties lightly in cornmeal before frying.
Make them ahead and refrigerate raw patties for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Use fresh salmon if you prefer — just cook and flake it first.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to keep them crispy.
Freeze raw or cooked patties between parchment paper for up to 2 months.
❤️ A Southern Tradition Worth Sharing
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are more than just a recipe — they’re a tradition passed down through generations. They remind us of grandmothers cooking in cast iron skillets, of simple meals that brought people together, and of the power of making something so good from just a few humble ingredients.
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