Southern Fried Salmon Patties
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a pan of Southern Fried Salmon Patties sizzling on the stove. It’s the kind of recipe that brings you straight back to Grandma’s kitchen—warm, simple, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a comforting weekend brunch, or just craving old-school Southern comfort food, these salmon patties check every box. They come together fast, fry up beautifully crisp on the outside, and stay tender and flavorful on the inside.
This classic dish has deep roots in Southern cooking, born from the tradition of turning pantry staples into hearty meals. Canned salmon, cornmeal, and simple seasonings were—and still are—affordable and easy to keep on hand. Today, salmon patties remain a beloved recipe because they’re easy, versatile, and unbelievably delicious.
In this article, you’ll learn what makes this recipe special, how to get the perfect golden crust, and the best ways to serve these patties for a full Southern meal. And of course, the original recipe is included exactly as you shared it.
Why You’ll Love Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are the kind of meal that never disappoints. They’re quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and offer bold flavor without complicated steps. The combination of flaked salmon, cornmeal, onions, and seasonings gives each bite a savory richness, while the frying process creates an irresistible crunch.
These patties can be served in endless ways: as a main course with classic sides, in a sandwich with tartar sauce, or even crumbled into a breakfast hash. They store and reheat well, making them a great recipe for meal prep or leftover transformations. Whether you’re new to Southern cooking or grew up with it, this dish feels like home.
Southern Fried Salmon Patties Recipe
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 10–12 min
Total Time: ~25 min
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients:
2 (14.75 oz) cans pink salmon, drained and flaked (bones removed if desired)
½ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
2 large eggs
½ cup cornmeal
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tbsp mayonnaise or sour cream
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
Instructions:
Mix the patties: In a large bowl, combine salmon, onion, bell pepper, eggs, cornmeal, flour, mayo, Worcestershire, and seasonings. Mix until just combined.
Form patties: Shape into 8 small or 4 large patties. Chill for 10–15 min if time allows (helps them hold together).
Heat oil: In a large skillet, heat ¼ inch of oil over medium heat until shimmering.
Fry: Cook patties 3–4 min per side until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
Drain and serve: Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Serve hot with tartar sauce, hot sauce, or a squeeze of lemon.
Tips:
Add a splash of hot sauce or mustard to the mix for extra kick
Serve with grits, coleslaw, or cornbread for a full Southern meal
Leftovers make great salmon burgers or breakfast hash
How to Get the Perfect Crisp on Your Salmon Patties
Achieving that beautiful golden crust is all about balance. Too little oil, and the patties absorb moisture instead of crisping. Too much mixing, and the texture becomes dense. The key is to gently combine the ingredients and use just enough hot oil to brown the exterior evenly.
Chilling the patties before frying is another great trick. It firms up the mixture, helping the patties stay together in the pan and ensuring the centers stay tender without falling apart. And because salmon is already cooked, your only job is browning—making this one of the fastest Southern meals you can make.
What to Serve with Southern Fried Salmon Patties
These patties pair beautifully with classic Southern sides:
Creamy cheese grits
Fresh coleslaw
Skillet cornbread
Mashed potatoes
Sautéed greens (like collards or mustard greens)
For a lighter meal, serve them over a bed of greens with lemon vinaigrette. For brunch, add a fried egg and roasted potatoes. The versatility is endless.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat. These patties store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or air fryer to bring back that crisp exterior.
Leftovers can also be transformed into salmon burgers, broken up over a salad, or folded into a breakfast hash with potatoes and onions.
Final Thoughts
Southern Fried Salmon Patties are more than just a recipe—they’re a piece of culinary tradition. Quick, comforting, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or nostalgic weekend meals. With their crispy exterior and tender, flavorful middle, they’re sure to become a regular in your home kitchen.
