Name: Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485720H28M37S
Total time: PT-485720H28M37S
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 can or 1 cup cooked salmon, drained and flaked; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Vegetable oil for frying

Southern fried salmon patties are a delicious, crispy twist on a classic comfort food. These patties are packed with tender salmon, seasoned just right, and fried to golden perfection. They make a satisfying meal whether served for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s both simple and flavorful. Using canned or fresh salmon makes it super accessible, and the combination of herbs and spices gives the patties a wonderful southern flair. The crispy exterior with a tender inside is something I always crave, and they’re great paired with a fresh salad or on a sandwich.

Ingredients

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

Canned or cooked salmon, drained and flaked
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
Egg
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon juice
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, parsley, and a splash of lemon juice. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small, even-sized patties.
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 patties, enough for 2 to 3 servings. Preparation takes around 10 minutes, with cooking time about 8 to 10 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the mix for a little extra kick. Using panko breadcrumbs can make the crust even crispier. For a healthier version, I bake the patties at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover patties store well in the fridge for up to 2 days. I reheat them in a skillet to keep their crispy texture or in the oven. They also freeze well — I wrap them individually and reheat in a toaster oven or skillet.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, cooked fresh salmon works great — just flake it finely before mixing.

What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers or cornmeal are good substitutes that add nice texture.

Are these patties gluten-free?

They can be if I use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Can I bake instead of fry the patties?

Yes, baking at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, is a healthier alternative.

How do I prevent patties from falling apart?

I make sure to use enough binder like egg and breadcrumbs and handle them gently when flipping.

Conclusion

Southern fried salmon patties are a quick and tasty way to enjoy seafood with a southern twist. They’re crispy, flavorful, and so satisfying — perfect for a family meal or a casual get-together. Whenever I make these, I know I’m serving something both comforting and delicious.

Southern Fried Salmon Patties