Southern Fried Salmon Patties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are an easy, quick, and flavorful meal. Made with canned salmon, they are budget-friendly and come together in no time. The perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, these patties have a slightly spicy, savory flavor that will appeal to both fish lovers and those new to seafood. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, they can be served on their own or in a sandwich, making them a versatile option for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 can (14.75 oz) pink salmon, drained and flaked

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup chopped onion

• 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper (if using), mayonnaise, beaten egg, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix everything together until the ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to form into patties.

3. Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions, and shape them into round or oval patties.

4. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.

5. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve the salmon patties hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 patties

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Salmon Patties: Add a bit of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the mixture.

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for a gluten-free version of this dish.

• Herb-Infused: For a fresh twist, add finely chopped parsley or dill to the salmon mixture.

• Baked Version: Instead of frying, place the patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the patties to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 2-3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the patties for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through. For a crispy texture, you can reheat them in a skillet with a little oil.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked, flaked fresh salmon in place of canned salmon. Make sure to season it well, as fresh salmon might be milder in flavor.

How can I make the patties more flavorful?

You can add various herbs and spices like parsley, dill, cayenne pepper, or onion powder to enhance the flavor. A splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of mustard can also elevate the taste.

Can I make these patties without breadcrumbs?

Yes, if you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can substitute with crushed crackers, panko, or even oats. For a low-carb option, try using ground almond meal.

How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while frying?

Ensure that the mixture is well-mixed, and that the patties are firm enough to hold together. If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs until the desired consistency is achieved. Refrigerating the patties for about 10 minutes before cooking can also help.

How do I know when the patties are done cooking?

The patties should be golden brown on the outside and crispy. You can check the inside by cutting one in half; it should be flaky and opaque, not translucent.

Can I serve these patties with a sauce?

Absolutely! Tartar sauce, remoulade, or a simple lemon aioli are all great choices for dipping.

How do I make these patties less greasy?

To reduce grease, make sure the oil is hot before adding the patties, and don’t overcrowd the skillet. Also, drain the cooked patties on paper towels to remove any excess oil.

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other canned fish like tuna or mackerel in place of the salmon. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to suit the different flavors.

Are these patties suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! These salmon patties are perfect for meal prepping. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

Can I make the patties spicy?

Yes! To make the patties spicy, you can add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the mixture before frying.

Conclusion

Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a simple, delicious, and versatile meal that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these patties are sure to impress with their crispy exterior and savory interior. Plus, with various ways to customize and serve them, you’ll always have a new way to enjoy this Southern classic.