If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with southern charm and wholesome flavors, you have to try this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe. It’s a delightful mix of tender, flaked pink salmon tossed with fresh veggies and just the right amount of spice, all fried to golden-brown perfection. The crispy exterior gives way to a moist, flavorful center that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it up for weeknight dinner or sharing it with friends at a gathering, these salmon patties bring that comforting, soulful taste of the South to your table with every bite.

Southern Salmon Patties Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in making these salmon patties sing. From the flaky canned salmon to the crispy cornmeal, every component adds texture, flavor, and color in just the right balance.

Pink salmon (1 can, 14.75 oz), drained and flaked: The star of the show, offering rich flavor and protein.
Large egg (1): Acts as a natural binder to hold the patties together.
Finely diced onion (1/4 cup): Adds a sharp, sweet aroma that livens up the mix.
Finely diced green bell pepper (1/4 cup): For a subtle crunch and fresh, slightly sweet notes.
Cornmeal (1/2 cup): Creates that satisfying crispy crust outside the patty.
All-purpose flour (1/4 cup): Works alongside cornmeal for structure and crunch.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, savory undertone.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick to balance the flavors.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances and brightens every element.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness with a beautiful color.
Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon, optional): Keeps the patties moist and tender.
Milk (2 tablespoons): Lightens the batter for a tender bite.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For frying to golden, crispy goodness.

How to Make Southern Salmon Patties Recipe

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, start by flaking the drained salmon with a fork until nicely broken apart but not mushy. Add the egg, diced onion and green bell pepper, cornmeal, flour, and your seasonings—garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. For extra moistness, stir in the mayonnaise and milk. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to gently mix everything until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture holds together. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture; you want it firm enough to shape but not dry.

Step 2: Shape Your Patties

This is the fun part where the dish really starts to come alive. Form the salmon mixture into 6 to 8 evenly sized patties. Aim for patties about the size of your palm and roughly half an inch thick so they cook through evenly. If the mixture feels too sticky, a sprinkle of flour or cornmeal on your hands helps with shaping without falling apart.

Step 3: Heat and Fry

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking, which takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Carefully place your patties in the skillet, leaving a little space between each one so they can crisp up nicely. Fry each side for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and irresistibly crispy. Flip them gently with a spatula to avoid breaking.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the salmon patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them rest for a minute or two to firm up before serving. Your Southern Salmon Patties Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Southern Salmon Patties Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like fresh lemon wedges, chopped parsley, or a drizzle of tangy tartar sauce can brighten the dish and invite a burst of freshness with each bite. A sprinkle of extra paprika or chopped green onions is also a great way to add color and enhance flavor.

Side Dishes

Classic southern sides like collard greens, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp coleslaw complement these patties beautifully. For a lighter touch, a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables bring a nice contrast to the crispy patties.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these salmon patties on toasted buns to make scrumptious fish sandwiches, topped with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. Alternatively, crumble them over a bed of mixed greens to create a hearty salad or place them alongside breakfast eggs for a unique brunch twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for excellent next-day meals or snacks and maintain their flavor well.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these patties freeze beautifully. Lay the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This makes it easy to cook just a few at a time whenever you like. Frozen patties are best used within 1 month.

Reheating

To reheat, it’s best to pop the patties in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through and crisp again—microwaving can make them lose that lovely crunch. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh or leftover cooked salmon can be substituted for canned, but be sure to flake it well and adjust moisture levels slightly since fresh salmon tends to be less dense. You might want to add a little extra binder such as egg or cornmeal if needed.

What’s the difference between using cornmeal or breadcrumbs?

Cornmeal gives these patties that signature crispy Southern crust and a slight grit, while breadcrumbs will create a softer, lighter texture. Choose based on your preference but cornmeal definitely adds to the authentic feel of this recipe.

Can I bake the salmon patties instead of frying?

Yes, if you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown. The texture will be a bit different—not as crispy as frying but still delicious.

How can I add a little heat to this Southern Salmon Patties Recipe?

For a kick, stir in a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce or chopped jalapeños into the mixture. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper along with the paprika for an extra layer of smoky spice without overpowering the salmon.

Do these patties work well for kids?

Yes! These salmon patties are mild and flavorful without strong fishiness, making them perfect for kids. You can even serve them with ketchup or a mild dip that your little ones love to encourage them to enjoy more seafood.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up the Southern Salmon Patties Recipe is like inviting a little slice of Southern hospitality into your kitchen. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor and texture that bring all the good feelings to the table. So go ahead, mix up a batch, savor each crispy, tender bite, and let this recipe become one of your cherished classics!