Southern Salmon Patties

Ah, Southern cooking—it’s all about comfort, flavor, and that homey feeling that makes you want to gather around the table and dig in. These Southern Salmon Patties are everything you want in a classic Southern dish: crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with delicious flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them for a quick weeknight dinner, a lazy weekend brunch, or as part of a holiday spread, these patties are sure to be a hit. They’re made with pantry staples and come together so easily—you won’t believe how something so simple can taste so amazing. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a regular on your menu.

Why You’ll Love Southern Salmon Patties

Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe:

• Simple Ingredients: Just a few basic ingredients (no fancy stuff here!), but the flavor is seriously out of this world. It’s proof that great meals don’t have to be complicated.
• Quick & Easy: You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for busy days or when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Crispy on the Outside, Tender on the Inside: The perfect texture contrast—golden and crispy on the outside, with a soft, flavorful interior.
• Budget-Friendly: Canned salmon is super affordable and makes these patties a wallet-friendly option for feeding a crowd or a small family.
• Versatile: They’re great on their own or served with all kinds of sides. Whether you’re pairing them with a side of greens, a fresh salad, or some crispy fries, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

These salmon patties are made with ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Let’s break them down:

• Canned Salmon: The star of the dish. It gives the patties that signature fish flavor and helps keep everything together.
• Eggs: They bind everything and help the patties hold their shape while cooking.
• Breadcrumbs: For the right texture and a little crunch. You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs, depending on your preference.
• Mayonnaise: Adds moisture and a creamy richness to the patties.
• Yellow Onion: A little bit of onion adds flavor and savory depth.
• Celery: Gives the patties a nice crunch and freshness.
• Bell Pepper: Adds a pop of color and a bit of sweetness.
• Old Bay Seasoning: A classic in seafood recipes, it gives the patties that signature Southern flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: For seasoning and balance.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying the patties to crispy perfection.

(Note: The full ingredient list with exact measurements is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make some delicious Southern Salmon Patties? Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Drain the canned salmon and remove any bones or skin (though the bones are soft and edible if you like to keep them). Place the salmon in a large mixing bowl and flake it with a fork.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

Add the eggs, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, onion, celery, bell pepper, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper to the salmon. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold together when shaped into patties. If it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Shape the salmon mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter. If you want them crispy all over, make sure they’re not too thick. You can also refrigerate them for about 15 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to flip them gently to avoid breaking.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve them warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 520mg
Total Carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 19g
Vitamin A: 2% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 6% DV
Iron: 8% DV

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Southern Salmon Patties

These salmon patties are super versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some great serving ideas:

• Classic with a Side of Greens: Serve them with some sautéed spinach, collard greens, or a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette.
• On a Bun: Make a salmon patty sandwich by serving them on soft buns with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce or mayo.
• With Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: For a more indulgent meal, pair these patties with crispy fries or sweet potato fries.
• As a Main Dish: Serve them alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
• With a Side of Lemon Wedges: A little squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors and adds a nice touch of freshness.

Additional Tips

• Customize the Flavors: Feel free to swap out the bell pepper for some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat, or add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of flavor.
• Make Them Smaller: If you want to serve these as appetizers, you can make mini patties and serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.
• Make Ahead: You can prep the salmon patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. This helps them hold their shape even better during cooking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet to keep them crispy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
A1: Yes, fresh cooked salmon will work great! Just make sure to flake it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Q2: Can I bake these instead of frying them?
A2: Yes! You can bake them at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q3: Can I freeze the patties?
A3: Yes! Freeze the patties (uncooked) on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To cook, just fry them straight from the freezer.

Q4: What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
A4: You can use sour cream, Greek yogurt, or even a little mustard as a substitute for mayonnaise, depending on your taste preferences.

Q5: Can I make these patties gluten-free?
A5: Absolutely! Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of regular breadcrumbs.

Q6: What’s the best oil to fry these in?
A6: Vegetable oil works great, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil. Just make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the patties to get that crispy texture.

Q7: How do I know when the patties are done?
A7: The patties should be golden brown and crispy on both sides, and a meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted in the center.

Q8: Can I add other vegetables to the patties?
A8: Yes! You can add grated carrots, chopped zucchini, or any other vegetables you like to the mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Q9: What’s a good dipping sauce for these salmon patties?
A9: Tartar sauce, a spicy mayo, or even a lemon aioli would be delicious with these patties.

Q10: Can I use different seasoning besides Old Bay?
A10: Definitely! You can use Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, or even a simple mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for a different twist.

Conclusion

These Southern Salmon Patties are the definition of comfort food—simple, flavorful, and totally satisfying. With a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful inside, they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve them up for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something deliciously Southern. Enjoy every bite, and remember—there’s always room for one more patty!

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