If you are craving a comforting dish that bursts with bold flavors and home-style charm, you absolutely need to try this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe. These patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with simple ingredients that meld beautifully to create a dish that feels like a warm hug from the South. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of flaky salmon, zingy onion, and a hint of mayo creaminess, all wrapped in a satisfyingly crunchy crust. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe brings soul food goodness straight to your table with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role in building texture, flavor, and that classic golden crust you’ll love.
- 2 cans of salmon: This is the star of the show, providing flaky, rich fish packed with flavor and moisture.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds a refreshing crunch and a little bite that brightens up the patties.
- 2 eggs: These bind everything together, making sure your patties hold shape perfectly during frying.
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise: Brings moisture and a subtle tang that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
- 6 tablespoons flour: Helps the mixture firm up and contributes to a tender crumb in every bite.
- 6 tablespoons cornmeal: Gives the crust a crunchy, slightly gritty texture that’s so satisfying.
- Oil for frying: Essential for achieving that beautiful golden brown exterior with a delightful crispness.
How to Make Southern Salmon Patties Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Salmon and Mix-Ins
Begin by opening your cans of salmon and placing the contents into a large mixing bowl. If you prefer, remove the pin bones for a smoother texture, but they’re perfectly edible if you don’t mind a little extra calcium boost. Next, add your finely diced onion, eggs, and mayonnaise. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to create a homogenous mixture that will anchor the patties.
Step 2: Add the Flour and Cornmeal
Now, sprinkle in the flour and cornmeal. This is where the mixture starts to thicken and gain the structure needed for forming patties. Mix it just until everything is evenly combined—over-mixing can make the patties too dense. The cornmeal gives the final product that glorious crunch on the outside.
Step 3: Heat Up the Oil
Preheat your skillet over medium heat and pour in enough oil to shallow fry the patties. A cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet works best here since it holds the heat evenly and creates that perfect crust without burning your patties.
Step 4: Shape Your Patties
Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, portion out the salmon mixture to make uniformly sized balls. Flatten each one gently to form a patty shape—this helps them cook evenly and look inviting on the plate.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden
Carefully place the patties into your hot oil and fry for several minutes on each side until they are a beautiful golden brown. Flip them once to ensure a crispy crust forms on both sides. The aroma at this stage is simply irresistible!
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once the patties are cooked through, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels and lightly sprinkle with salt to enhance all the flavors. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for a meal that’s both simple and spectacular. And if you love a little heat, try adding finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture before frying for an exciting twist.
How to Serve Southern Salmon Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or a dollop of tangy tartar sauce elevate these salmon patties effortlessly. The zest from the lemon brightens the richness, while herbs bring a pop of freshness that balances the dish perfectly.
Side Dishes
Southern salmon patties pair wonderfully with simple sides like coleslaw, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery corn on the cob. For a lighter touch, crisp green beans or a fresh garden salad complement the patties without overpowering their savory goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve these patties atop a buttery biscuit for a Southern-inspired slider or stack them with avocado slices and pickled onions for a vibrant, modern twist. You could even crumble leftover patties over a salad to add protein and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Southern Salmon Patties Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days, making for an easy lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
These patties freeze exceptionally well! Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents sticking and allows you to defrost just the quantity you need later.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the patties in a preheated skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or warm them in the oven to maintain that crisp texture. Microwaving is possible but might result in a softer crust.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned for this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh salmon can be cooked, flaked, and used in place of canned. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture to avoid soggy patties.
What dipping sauces pair well with Southern salmon patties?
Classic tartar sauce, spicy remoulade, or even a simple squeeze of lemon juice work beautifully. For a twist, try a creamy sriracha mayo or garlic aioli.
Is it okay to add jalapeños to the patty mixture?
Yes! Adding finely diced jalapeños introduces a nice kick and complements the flavors perfectly. Adjust the quantity based on your heat preference.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while frying?
Make sure to mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly and use eggs and mayonnaise as binders. Also, avoid flipping too frequently and keep the oil at a steady medium heat.
Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place patties on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels like a loving nod to Southern cooking, this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe is your new go-to. It’s deceptively simple, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to bring smiles at the dinner table. So gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and enjoy a taste of the South with every crispy, flavorful bite.
Print
Southern Salmon Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
Southern Salmon Patties are a delicious and crispy fried fish treat made with canned salmon, onions, eggs, and a blend of flour and cornmeal. This quick and easy recipe yields golden brown patties perfect for a casual meal or appetizer, offering a classic Southern flavor with the option to spice things up with jalapeños.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans of salmon
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 eggs
- 6 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 6 tablespoons cornmeal
- Oil for frying (about 1/4 to 1/2 cup, enough to cover skillet bottom)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: jalapeños, finely chopped (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon mixture: Open the salmon cans and add the contents into a large bowl. Remove pin bones if preferred for texture. Add the diced onion, eggs, and mayonnaise, stirring well until fully combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Mix in the flour and cornmeal thoroughly to create an even, firm batter suitable for shaping into patties.
- Preheat the oil: Heat oil in a cast iron or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Form the patties: Use an ice cream scoop to portion the salmon mixture for uniform size, then flatten each scoop slightly into a patty shape.
- Fry the patties: Carefully place patties into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes, then flip and fry the other side until equally browned and cooked through.
- Finish and serve: Remove patties from skillet and drain on paper towels if desired. Lightly sprinkle with salt while hot. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Optionally, add finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture before frying for a spicy variation.
Notes
- Removing pin bones is optional but recommended for better texture and ease of eating.
- Use a nonstick or well-seasoned cast iron skillet to prevent sticking.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on patty thickness to ensure they are cooked through.
- Mayonnaise helps keep the patties moist and adds richness.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with gluten-free flour or more cornmeal.
- For extra flavorful patties, consider adding herbs like parsley or dill.
