Southern Fried Salmon Patties

Oh, let me tell you, these Southern Fried Salmon Patties are everything. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and full of that delicious savory flavor you just can’t get enough of. If you’re craving comfort food with a little southern flair, this is your answer. Imagine a bite of perfectly seasoned salmon, combined with a crunchy golden crust, served up hot and ready to satisfy those hunger pangs. This recipe will soon become one of your go-to favorites. Trust me, you’re going to love every single bite.

Why You’ll Love Southern Fried Salmon Patties

These salmon patties are more than just a simple meal—they’re a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that works for just about any occasion. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:

Flavorful and Savory

The seasoning is spot on—think garlic, onion, and a touch of spice, all working together to make every bite packed with flavor. The crispy coating just seals in all that deliciousness.

Perfect Texture

The crispy exterior gives way to a tender and flaky interior. It’s the perfect contrast, and that’s what makes these salmon patties so irresistible.

Quick and Easy

Whip these up in no time! You don’t need to be a pro to get these right—they’re simple and straightforward, so you can get dinner on the table fast.

Budget-Friendly

Using canned salmon makes this recipe super affordable. It’s the kind of meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but it won’t break the bank.

Great for Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), these patties taste even better the next day. They make a great sandwich or can be paired with a fresh salad.

Ingredients

This list is simple and easy, yet full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make these golden, crispy salmon patties:

Base Ingredients:

• Canned Salmon: This is the star of the show. Canned salmon is the perfect base, and it’s super convenient. You can use skinless, boneless salmon or get the full fish experience!
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together while giving the patties that crispy outer texture.
• Egg: The egg acts as a binder, keeping everything together as it cooks.
• Yellow Onion: Adds a little sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Garlic: For that savory punch that takes the flavor to the next level.
• Bell Pepper: Optional but adds color, crunch, and a mild sweetness that works perfectly with the salmon.
• Cajun Seasoning: Gives it a little southern kick. You can adjust this depending on how spicy you like it.
• Lemon Zest: A little bright citrusy zing that elevates the flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course!

For Frying:

• Vegetable Oil: You’ll need oil for frying to get that golden, crispy crust. Vegetable or canola oil works best for frying at medium-high heat.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make these flavorful, crispy salmon patties? Let’s dive in:

Drain and Flake the Salmon

Start by draining your canned salmon and flaking it into a large mixing bowl. Remove any bones or skin if you’re using the kind with bones (though they are perfectly fine to eat!). Flake it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.

Mix It Up

Add breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper (if using), Cajun seasoning, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the bowl with the salmon. Mix everything together until well combined.

Form the Patties

Take a handful of the salmon mixture and form it into small patties. You can make them as big or small as you like, but I usually go for about 2-3 inches in diameter. Be gentle but firm as you shape them.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You can test if the oil is hot enough by dropping a small amount of the salmon mixture into the pan—if it sizzles, you’re ready to go!

Fry the Patties

Carefully place the salmon patties in the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once they’re cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Southern Fried Salmon Patties hot, paired with a squeeze of fresh lemon or a side of dipping sauce. They’re perfect on their own or with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Southern Fried Salmon Patties

These crispy little bites of heaven can be served in so many delicious ways. Here are a few ideas:

Classic Comfort

Serve with a side of mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread for a down-home southern meal.

On a Bun

Make a sandwich out of it! Place one of these golden patties on a soft bun with a dollop of tartar sauce, lettuce, and a slice of tomato for a delicious twist on a classic fish sandwich.

With a Fresh Salad

Pair them with a light, refreshing salad to balance out the richness of the salmon. A simple side salad with greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette would be perfect.

With Dipping Sauce

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like tartar sauce, garlic aioli, or even a spicy remoulade for an extra burst of flavor.

Additional Tips

• Make it spicier: If you like a little heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning, or even some hot sauce, to the mixture.
• Make ahead: You can make the patties ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate for a few hours before frying. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support!.
• Use fresh fish: If you prefer fresh salmon, you can use cooked salmon instead of canned, just make sure to flake it well.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
A1: Yes! Fresh cooked salmon works great here. Just make sure to flake it well and remove any bones.

Q2: Can I make these patties ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can form the patties in advance and refrigerate them for a couple of hours before frying.

Q3: Can I bake these instead of frying them?
A3: You can! Bake them at 375°F on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q4: What can I serve with these patties?
A4: These patties go wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a side of steamed veggies.

Q5: Can I freeze these patties?
A5: Absolutely! After frying, let them cool, then freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F until heated through.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to bring back that crispy texture.

Q7: Can I add more veggies to the patties?
A7: Yes! You can add finely chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini to the mixture for a little extra crunch and nutrition.

Q8: Can I use a different seasoning besides Cajun?
A8: Absolutely! You can use Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, or even a little lemon pepper for a different twist.

Q9: What type of oil should I use for frying?
A9: Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil all work well for frying these patties. Just make sure the oil is hot enough to get a crispy crust.

Q10: How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while frying?
A10: Make sure to form the patties tightly and avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. If you feel they’re too loose, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to the mixture.

Conclusion

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are comfort food at its finest—crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying snack, or something to serve at your next gathering, these patties are always a hit. So grab some canned salmon, get cooking As an Amazon Associate, we earn a small commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. Our recommendations are always honest and unbiased. Thank you for your support!, and enjoy these crispy bites of southern goodness!

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