These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a classic comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Made with canned salmon, cornmeal, and a touch of mayonnaise for moisture, these patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a Southern-style brunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
1 (14.75 oz) can salmon, drained 🐟
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped 🧅
1/4 cup cornmeal 🌽
1/4 cup all-purpose flour 🍚
1 large egg 🥚
3 tablespoons mayonnaise 🥄
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well) 🛢️
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by opening the can of salmon and draining it completely. Use a fork to flake the salmon and remove any large bones or skin if desired (they are edible and add calcium, but you can discard them for a smoother texture).
Place the drained and flaked salmon in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add the 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup of cornmeal, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 large egg, and 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise to the bowl with the salmon.
Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed but still be moist.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties about the size of an average burger (or smaller if you prefer bite-sized patties). This recipe typically yields 6-8 patties, depending on how large you make them.
Arrange the shaped patties on a plate or tray. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more flour or cornmeal to help it hold its shape.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when a small piece of the salmon mixture is added, but not smoking (around 350°F).
To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the salmon mixture into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
Step 5: Fry the Patties
Gently place the salmon patties into the hot oil, leaving enough space between them to ensure even cooking. Fry them in batches if necessary.
Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip them halfway through cooking.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the salmon patties warm with your favorite sides. They pair perfectly with:
- Creamy coleslaw 🥗
- Steamed green beans 🥬
- Mashed potatoes 🥔
- A squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty kick 🍋
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful patties as a main dish or even as a sandwich filling!
Tips and Variations
- Add Some Spice: Mix in a dash of cayenne pepper, paprika, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Patties: Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Air Fryer Method: For a healthier version, spray the patties with oil and cook them in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Southern Fried Salmon Patties are:
✅ Quick and easy to make
✅ Budget-friendly (thanks to canned salmon!)
✅ Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside
✅ Versatile and perfect for any meal
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 patties
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a delicious and easy meal, these Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a must-try! Crispy, savory, and full of Southern charm, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy! 🐟🌽🍴