Easy Southern Salmon Patties Recipe – Crispy Golden Perfection Every Time

Discover the best homemade Southern salmon patties recipe that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. This classic comfort food recipe from www.dailymeatrecipe.com delivers crispy golden patties perfect for any meal.

There’s something truly magical about Southern salmon patties that transforms a simple can of salmon into pure comfort food gold. This traditional Southern recipe has been passed down through generations, creating crispy, golden patties that are incredibly easy to make and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nostalgic taste of Southern cooking, these salmon patties deliver exceptional flavor with minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – using pantry staples to create a dish that’s both budget-friendly and satisfying. Each bite offers a perfect balance of tender salmon, aromatic seasonings, and a beautifully crispy exterior that will have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Canned salmon, drained and flaked	2 cans (14.75 oz each)
Large eggs, beaten	2
Yellow cornmeal	1/2 cup
All-purpose flour	1/4 cup
Yellow onion, finely diced	1 medium
Fresh parsley, chopped	2 tablespoons
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon
Paprika	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Vegetable oil for frying	1/2 cup
Lemon wedges for serving	As needed

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving (Makes 8 patties)

• Calories: 285
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 420mg
• Calcium: 180mg
• Iron: 2mg

This Southern salmon patties recipe provides excellent protein content while remaining relatively low in carbs, making it a nutritious choice for families seeking a balanced meal.

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Drain the canned salmon thoroughly and remove any bones or skin pieces. Flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces using a fork, ensuring an even texture throughout. This preparation step is crucial for achieving the perfect salmon patties consistency.

Step 2: Create the Base Mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon with beaten eggs, ensuring the mixture binds well. Add the finely diced onion, chopped parsley, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to distribute all seasonings evenly throughout the salmon mixture.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually incorporate the cornmeal and flour into the salmon mixture. The cornmeal provides the signature Southern texture and helps create that coveted crispy exterior when these patties hit the hot oil. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing which can make the patties tough.

Step 4: Form the Patties Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties, approximately 3 inches in diameter. The mixture should hold together well, but if it seems too wet, add a tablespoon more cornmeal. Place the formed patties on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.

Step 5: Heat the Oil Pour vegetable oil into a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, ensuring about 1/4 inch depth. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of the mixture into the oil – it should sizzle immediately.

Step 6: Fry the Salmon Patties Carefully place the chilled patties into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on the first side until deep golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully using a wide spatula and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is equally golden and crispy.

Step 7: Drain and Serve Remove the cooked salmon patties from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, accompanied by fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.

Serving Suggestions

Southern salmon patties are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with numerous side dishes to create a complete meal. Serve these golden patties alongside creamy coleslaw and cornbread for an authentic Southern feast. For a lighter option, place the patties over a bed of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

These patties also make excellent breakfast fare when served with scrambled eggs, grits, and fresh fruit. For a more substantial dinner, pair them with mac and cheese, green beans, and biscuits. The dish works wonderfully as a sandwich filling too – simply place a patty between two pieces of toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.

Consider serving with classic Southern sides like black-eyed peas, collard greens, or sweet potato fries to create a memorable meal that celebrates traditional Southern flavors. The recipe adapts well to both casual family dinners and special occasion gatherings.

Pro Tips

Achieving perfect Southern salmon patties requires attention to several key cooking techniques. First, ensure your canned salmon is thoroughly drained to prevent soggy patties. Pat the salmon dry with paper towels if necessary, as excess moisture can prevent proper binding and crispiness.

The oil temperature is crucial for success with this recipe. Too hot, and the exterior burns before the interior cooks through. Too cool, and the patties absorb excess oil and become greasy. Maintain steady medium-high heat and adjust as needed throughout the cooking process.

For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the mixture. Some Southern cooks swear by adding a small amount of mayonnaise to help bind the ingredients and add richness to the final product.

When forming the patties, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. This simple tip makes the shaping process much easier and helps create evenly sized portions. Remember that smaller patties cook more evenly than large ones, so aim for uniform sizing.

Make sure to let the formed patties rest in the refrigerator before frying. This chilling time helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart in the hot oil.

Variations

This classic Southern salmon patties recipe adapts beautifully to accommodate different dietary preferences and flavor profiles. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or additional cornmeal, maintaining the same proportions for proper binding.

Create a spicier version by increasing the cayenne pepper and adding finely minced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. For those who prefer milder flavors, reduce or eliminate the cayenne pepper entirely while keeping the other seasonings intact.

Fresh salmon works wonderfully as a substitute for canned salmon, though it requires additional preparation. Simply poach or bake fresh salmon fillets until cooked through, then flake and proceed with the recipe as written.

For added vegetables, consider incorporating finely diced bell peppers, celery, or green onions into the mixture. These additions provide extra nutrition and texture while maintaining the traditional Southern salmon patties character.

Some cooks prefer using crackers instead of flour and cornmeal for binding. Crush about 20 saltine crackers and use them as a substitute, adjusting the liquid as needed to achieve the proper consistency.

FAQ

Can I bake these salmon patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake Southern salmon patties at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. While they won’t achieve the same crispy texture as fried versions, they’ll still be delicious and slightly healthier.

How long do leftover salmon patties keep? Properly stored salmon patties will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to restore some crispiness, or warm them in a 350-degree oven for 8-10 minutes.

Can I freeze the uncooked patties? Absolutely. Form the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best oil for frying salmon patties? Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. Avoid olive oil as it can impart too strong a flavor and has a lower smoke point.

My patties are falling apart. What went wrong? This usually indicates insufficient binding. Make sure your eggs are well beaten and evenly distributed. The mixture should hold together when squeezed. If needed, add an extra beaten egg or a tablespoon of mayonnaise.

Conclusion

These Southern salmon patties represent everything wonderful about traditional Southern cooking – simple ingredients transformed into something absolutely delicious through time-tested techniques. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen, proving that the best comfort food often comes from the most straightforward preparations.

The crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior make these patties irresistible to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re introducing your family to Southern cuisine or revisiting childhood memories, this recipe delivers authentic flavors that satisfy every time.

We encourage you to try this Southern salmon patties recipe and share your results in the comments below. Did you add your own twist to the seasonings? What sides did you serve alongside these golden beauties? Your feedback helps other home cooks perfect their technique and discover new ways to enjoy this classic dish.

For more incredible recipes that bring families together around the dinner table, visit www.dailymeatrecipe.com where you’ll find countless easy, delicious meals that fit any schedule or skill level. From quick weeknight dinners to impressive weekend feasts, we’re your go-to source for recipes that never disappoint.