Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the South. These crispy salmon patties are not only packed with flavor but also offer a convenient way to incorporate healthy seafood into your diet. Typically made with canned salmon, this recipe provides a quick and easy option for a weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer for entertaining guests. The combination of tender fish, fragrant herbs, and crunchy breadcrumbs creates a mouthwatering treat that brings Southern comfort food to the forefront. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of salmon or just looking for new seafood meal ideas, these Southern-style fish cakes will surely please your palate.

Ingredients

• For the Salmon Patties:
  • 2 (14.75 oz) cans of salmon, drained and flaked
  • 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
  • 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup of finely chopped bell pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning (or your preferred seafood seasoning)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For Cooking:
  • 1/4 cup of vegetable oil (or more, as needed for frying)
• For Serving (Optional):
  • Tartar sauce for dipping
  • Fresh lemon wedges
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Steps / Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold together when formed into patties.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Place the formed patties on a tray or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes frying easier.
4. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test the oil’s temperature by dropping a small piece of the salmon mixture into the oil; it should sizzle when ready.
5. Carefully place the salmon patties in the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all patties are cooked.
7. Serve immediately with tartar sauce on the side, fresh lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with your Southern Fried Salmon Patties, consider the following tips: You can learn more about this topic.

• Ingredient Quality: Opt for high-quality canned salmon for the best flavor. Look for wild-caught varieties when possible.
• Breadcrumbs: Using seasoned breadcrumbs adds extra flavor to your patties. If you prefer a healthier option, try using whole wheat breadcrumbs.
• Chilling the Patties: Chilling the patties in the refrigerator not only helps them hold their shape but also enhances their flavor as the ingredients meld together.
• Storage: Cooked salmon patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month; reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures the patties cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

Variations

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salmon mixture to give your patties an extra kick.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro for added freshness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.

Serving Suggestions

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them as a main course alongside a fresh salad or as savory salmon appetizers at your next gathering. Pair them with a side of coleslaw or fries for a classic seafood meal. To enhance the experience, offer tartar sauce for dipping and lemon wedges for a zesty touch. Enjoy this comforting dish that truly embodies the essence of Southern cuisine classics!

Southern Fried Salmon Patties

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

4-6

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

10 min

🔥

Calories

250

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Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the South. These crispy salmon patties are not only packed with flavor but also offer a convenient way to incorporate healthy seafood into your diet.

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Ingredients

• 2 (14.75 oz) cans of salmon, drained and flaked
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
• 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped bell pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning (or your preferred seafood seasoning)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil (or more, as needed for frying)
• Tartar sauce for dipping (optional)
• Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained and flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

2.

Add the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold together when formed into patties.

3.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties, about 2 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Place the formed patties on a tray or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4.

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test the oil's temperature by dropping a small piece of the salmon mixture into the oil; it should sizzle when ready.

5.

Carefully place the salmon patties in the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches if necessary, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

6.

Once cooked, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all patties are cooked.

7.

Serve immediately with tartar sauce on the side, fresh lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts