Southern Fried Salmon Patties
There is something deeply comforting about Southern Fried Salmon Patties.
This classic dish has been passed down through generations in Southern kitchens, often appearing on dinner tables when families needed something hearty, affordable, and full of flavor.
Made from simple pantry staples and canned salmon, Southern Fried Salmon Patties are proof that humble ingredients can create truly satisfying meals.
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and rich with savory goodness, these patties deliver nostalgia in every bite.
For many families, Southern Fried Salmon Patties are more than just food—they’re memories.
They remind us of cast-iron skillets sizzling on the stove, the smell of onions cooking in oil, and plates lined with paper towels waiting to catch the excess grease.
Whether served with creamy grits, mashed potatoes, or tucked into a sandwich, Southern Fried Salmon Patties remain a beloved staple that never goes out of style.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes Southern Fried Salmon Patties so reliable is their perfect balance of texture, flavor, and simplicity.
The canned salmon provides a rich, slightly briny base that pairs beautifully with mild onion and seasoning.
Cornmeal adds subtle crunch, while flour helps bind everything together for patties that hold their shape during frying.
The egg and mayonnaise are the secret weapons in Southern Fried Salmon Patties. Together, they create moisture and richness, preventing the patties from becoming dry.
Frying them in shallow oil allows the exterior to turn golden and crisp while keeping the inside soft and flaky. This combination of ingredients and technique is why Southern Fried Salmon Patties have stood the test of time.
What You’ll Need For This Recipe
One of the best things about Southern Fried Salmon Patties is how accessible the ingredient list is. You may already have most of these items in your kitchen.
You’ll need canned salmon as the star ingredient. Make sure it’s well-drained so the patties don’t become soggy.
Finely chopped onion adds flavor without overpowering the salmon. All-purpose flour and cornmeal work together to bind the mixture and add texture.
A large egg provides structure, while mayonnaise adds richness and moisture.
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning Southern Fried Salmon Patties, and oil is used for frying until perfectly golden.
That’s it—no fancy ingredients required, just straightforward pantry staples that work beautifully together.
How To Make This Recipe
Making Southern Fried Salmon Patties is simple and beginner-friendly, which is why this recipe has been a favorite for generations. Start by adding the drained salmon to a mixing bowl.
Use a fork to flake the salmon into small pieces, making sure it’s evenly broken up.
Next, add the finely chopped onion, flour, cornmeal, egg, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape. If it feels too loose, you can add a small amount of flour or cornmeal.
Form the mixture into patties about the size of a burger. Heat about an inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the pan. Fry the Southern Fried Salmon Patties until golden brown on both sides, turning gently to keep them intact. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
For the best Southern Fried Salmon Patties, always drain the salmon thoroughly. Excess liquid can cause the patties to fall apart or absorb too much oil while frying.
Flaking the salmon evenly ensures consistent texture in every bite.
Use medium heat when frying. Oil that’s too hot will brown the outside too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
If the oil is too cool, the patties may become greasy. A steady medium heat is ideal for Southern Fried Salmon Patties.
If you prefer a crispier crust, let the patties rest for a few minutes after shaping before frying. This helps them firm up and hold together better in the pan.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this lowers the oil temperature and affects browning.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ins
While traditional Southern Fried Salmon Patties are delicious as-is, there’s plenty of room for customization.
Some cooks like to add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne for a subtle kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add brightness and freshness.
You can also swap part of the onion for finely chopped bell pepper or celery for extra crunch. These small changes allow you to make Southern Fried Salmon Patties your own while still honoring the classic recipe.
How to Serve
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. For a traditional Southern meal, serve them hot with creamy grits, collard greens, or green beans.
A squeeze of lemon or a dollop of tartar sauce adds a bright contrast to the rich patties.
They also work well for casual meals. Serve Southern Fried Salmon Patties with a side salad for a lighter dinner, or enjoy them at lunch with sliced tomatoes and crackers.
Their crispy texture makes them satisfying no matter how they’re served.
Serving Suggestions
One popular way to enjoy Southern Fried Salmon Patties is as a sandwich.
Place a patty on soft white bread or a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a bit of mayo. This turns a simple recipe into a filling handheld meal.
You can also serve Southern Fried Salmon Patties with mashed potatoes and gravy for pure comfort food.
For breakfast or brunch, pair them with eggs and biscuits. Leftovers reheat well and can even be crumbled into salads or wraps the next day.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Southern Fried Salmon Patties can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for busy schedules.
You can mix and shape the patties, then store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.
Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet or oven to maintain their crisp exterior.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make Southern Fried Salmon Patties soft instead of crispy.
Time
One of the reasons Southern Fried Salmon Patties are so popular is how quickly they come together.
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, while cooking takes roughly 10–15 minutes, depending on the size of the patties.
From start to finish, you can have Southern Fried Salmon Patties on the table in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.
A Southern Classic Worth Keeping
There’s a reason Southern Fried Salmon Patties have remained a staple for generations. They’re affordable, flavorful, and easy to make, yet comforting enough to feel special.
With their crispy golden crust and tender interior, Southern Fried Salmon Patties deliver everything you want in a homemade meal.
Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or discovering this dish for the first time, Southern Fried Salmon Patties deserve a place in your regular recipe rotation.
Simple, satisfying, and full of Southern charm, this recipe proves that great cooking doesn’t have to be complicated.