The Best Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe You’ll Ever Try

Crispy southern fried salmon patties dance between comfort and coastal flavors, promising a delightful meal that breaks traditional seafood boundaries.

Memories of grandma’s kitchen swirl with each golden-brown bite.

Southern kitchens have long celebrated these delectable medallions as a budget-friendly protein solution.

Fresh salmon transforms into tender, seasoned discs that crisp beautifully when meeting hot oil.

Unexpected ingredients like green onions and cornmeal add remarkable depth to this classic recipe.

Pantry staples become magical when mixed with care and intuition.

You’ll want to savor every crunchy, flavorful morsel that celebrates simple southern cooking.

Tasty Spins On Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Gluten-Free Salmon Patties: Replace wheat flour and breadcrumbs with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs for celiac-friendly option.
• Spicy Cajun Salmon Cakes: Add cayenne pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes to create a zesty, bold flavor profile with extra kick.
• Mediterranean-Style Salmon Fritters: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh dill for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
• Low-Carb Keto Salmon Patties: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or ground pork panko to reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining crispy texture.

What Goes Great With Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Elevate Salmon Patties Flavor Profile
• Pair with Crisp Chardonnay to complement the rich, buttery salmon texture and balance the golden-brown crispy exterior.
• Fresh Citrus Salad: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the patties' richness and provide a bright, zesty contrast.
• Dipping Sauce Delight: Whip up a quick dill-infused yogurt sauce with fresh herbs and a splash of lemon juice to enhance the salmon's delicate flavors and add creamy complexity.
• Herb-Roasted Asparagus: Serve alongside tender roasted asparagus spears seasoned with garlic and thyme to provide a sophisticated vegetable accompaniment that echoes the patties' herbal notes.

How To Store Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Store salmon patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual patties in plastic wrap, place in freezer bags, and store for up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat to 375°F, arrange patties on a baking sheet, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy edges return.
• Warm a non-stick pan with a touch of oil over medium heat, cook patties for 2-3 minutes per side to restore crispiness and prevent drying out.

FAQs For Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?

Yes, canned salmon works perfectly and is a convenient, budget-friendly option. Just drain excess liquid and remove any skin or bones before flaking.

• How do I prevent my salmon patties from falling apart?

Use fresh breadcrumbs and ensure you mix ingredients thoroughly. Press patties firmly when forming and avoid moving them too much while cooking to maintain their shape.

• What if I don't have fresh parsley?

Dried parsley is an acceptable substitute. Use about one-third the amount of dried compared to fresh to maintain the right flavor intensity.

• Is it necessary to use a meat thermometer for salmon patties?

While not mandatory, cooking salmon patties to an internal temperature of 145°F ensures they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Why Southern Fried Salmon Patties Are A Comfort Food Classic

• Craft with Ease: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make these salmon patties accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned kitchen pros.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or as a protein-packed addition to salads and sandwiches, these patties offer delicious flexibility for various dining scenarios.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy exterior and tender salmon interior, making this a crowd-pleasing dish that satisfies diverse taste preferences.
• Nutrient-Rich Delight: Packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, these patties deliver a healthy meal option that doesn't compromise on flavor or texture.

Everything You Need For Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Salmon: Fresh fish that serves as the primary protein and base of the patties.
• Eggs: Binding agent that helps hold the salmon patties together.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides texture and helps absorb moisture in the salmon mixture.
• Flour: Adds structure and helps create a crispy exterior when frying.

• Onion: Adds a subtle sharp flavor and aromatic depth to the salmon patties.
• Parsley: Fresh herb that brings a bright, clean taste to the mixture.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the salmon.
• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil used for frying the salmon patties to achieve a golden-brown crust.

How To Make Southern Fried Salmon Patties At Home

Step 1: Crumble Salmon into Delicate Pieces

Use a fork to break down the salmon into tiny, uniform flakes. Make sure no large chunks remain, creating a smooth texture for your patties.

Step 2: Create Salmon Mixture Base

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine the flaked salmon with eggs. Stir until the ingredients blend smoothly and create a consistent foundation for your patties.

Step 3: Build Flavor Profile

• Breadcrumbs
• Flour
• Diced onion
• Chopped parsley
• Dry seasonings

Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Form Perfect Patties

Gently shape the mixture into round patties about 3 inches wide. Press firmly while forming to help the patties stay together during cooking.

Step 5: Heat Cooking Surface

Pour vegetable oil into a large skillet. Heat to medium-high temperature, aiming for around 375°F. The oil should be hot but not smoking.

Step 6: Fry Salmon Patties

Carefully place patties into the hot oil. Cook each side until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side. Watch for a crispy exterior that signals perfect doneness.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb extra oil and keeps the exterior crispy.

Step 8: Rest and Settle

Allow patties to rest for 2-3 minutes. This helps stabilize internal temperature and lets flavors meld together.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the warm patties immediately. Consider adding a tangy remoulade sauce or fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips For Crispy Southern Fried Salmon Patties

• Flake Salmon Carefully: Use a fork to break salmon into fine, uniform pieces, ensuring no large chunks disrupt the patty's texture.
• Bind with Precision: Mix eggs thoroughly with salmon to create a strong, cohesive base that holds patties together during cooking.
• Balance Dry Ingredients: Evenly distribute breadcrumbs, flour, onions, parsley, and seasonings for consistent flavor and optimal binding.
• Shape Patties Strategically: Press patties firmly and compactly to prevent crumbling, maintaining a 3-inch diameter for even cooking.
• Achieve Perfect Crispiness: Fry in 375°F oil for 3-4 minutes per side, creating a golden-brown exterior while maintaining a moist interior.

Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe

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4.6 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern comfort meets coastal charm with these crispy Southern Fried Salmon Patties, a delightful blend of flaky salmon, zesty seasonings, and golden-brown perfection. Served with a tangy remoulade, you’ll savor each bite of this Southern classic that brings family traditions and ocean-fresh flavors to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 1 lb salmon, boneless and skinless
• 2 large eggs

Dry Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

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Instructions

1. Prepare salmon by meticulously flaking the fish into fine, uniform pieces using a fork, ensuring no large chunks remain.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine flaked salmon with eggs, creating a cohesive base for the patties.
3. Incorporate breadcrumbs, flour, finely diced onion, chopped parsley, and all dry seasonings into the salmon mixture, blending thoroughly until ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Gently shape the mixture into compact, uniform patties approximately 3 inches in diameter, pressing firmly to prevent crumbling during cooking.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 375°F.
6. Carefully place salmon patties into the hot oil, allowing each side to crisp to a golden-brown perfection, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and maintain their crispy exterior.
8. Let patties rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow internal temperature to stabilize and flavors to settle.
9. Serve immediately while warm, optionally accompanied by a tangy remoulade or fresh lemon wedges for added zest.

Notes

• Choose fresh, high-quality canned salmon for the best flavor and texture, preferably wild-caught varieties with minimal processing.
• Drain salmon thoroughly and pat dry to prevent excess moisture from making patties soggy and compromising their crispy exterior.
• Use a light hand when mixing ingredients to keep the patties tender and prevent overworking the mixture, which can make them dense and tough.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Enhance protein content by adding finely chopped bell peppers or replacing some breadcrumbs with ground nuts for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Control oil temperature carefully to achieve a perfectly golden-brown crust without burning, using a thermometer for precise heat management.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 590 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 140 mg