There’s something about Southern comfort food that just feels like home — especially when it’s crispy, golden, and cooked in a cast-iron skillet. These Southern Salmon Patties are the kind of recipe your grandma probably made on busy weeknights. I still remember my mom mixing canned salmon with onion and eggs, shaping the patties while humming along to the radio. The smell of them frying in the pan was pure magic.
This version keeps that old-fashioned flavor but makes it easier and a little lighter — ready in under 20 minutes, with pantry staples you already have.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Crispy, Golden Perfection: The outside gets beautifully crunchy while the inside stays tender and flaky.
- Quick & Easy: You can have dinner on the table in less than 25 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly & Pantry-Ready: All you need are canned salmon, eggs, onion, and a few seasonings.
- Trendy Comfort Revival: Southern classics like this are going viral again on TikTok — especially with that tangy dipping sauce twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few simple ingredients — and chances are, they’re already waiting in your pantry.
- 2 cans of salmon (drained and flaked, bones removed if desired)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines are Southern favorites)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a little kick)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Oil for frying (vegetable or avocado oil works best)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon for flaking the salmon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet (cast iron preferred)
- Spatula for flipping
How to Make Southern Salmon Patties
- Prepare the Salmon:
Drain the canned salmon and remove any bones or skin (some Southerners leave them in for extra calcium and texture — your call!). Flake it with a fork into a large bowl. - Mix the Base:
Add diced onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly combined. You want a mixture that holds together but isn’t too wet. - Form the Patties:
Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture and shape into patties, about 3 inches wide. Place them on a parchment-lined plate. - Heat the Oil:
Add about ¼ inch of oil to a skillet over medium heat. Let it get hot — a small breadcrumb should sizzle when dropped in. - Fry Until Golden:
Cook each patty for 3–4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed. - Drain and Serve:
Place the patties on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
Quick Ingredient Swap Table
| Ingredient | Substitute | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Breadcrumbs | Crushed crackers or panko | Adds more crunch |
| Salmon | Canned tuna | For a milder flavor |
| Onion | Green onion or shallots | Softer, sweeter taste |
| Oil | Butter or olive oil | Adds flavor but less crisp |
What to Serve With Southern Salmon Patties
Pair your crispy patties with:
- Southern Cornbread (try our Honey Butter Skillet Cornbread recipe — it’s a reader favorite).
- Air Fryer Okra for a lighter, crunchy side.
- Sweet Potato Fries or creamy Coleslaw for balance and color.
These pairings bring out that perfect mix of salty, sweet, and tangy that Southern dinners are famous for.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t overmix! Keep the salmon a little chunky for texture.
- Chill before frying (10 minutes in the fridge helps the patties stay together).
- Add a squeeze of lemon right before serving — it brightens every bite.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crispness. You can also freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs About Southern Salmon Patties
1. Why are my salmon patties falling apart?
They usually need more binder — add a little more egg or breadcrumbs to help them hold shape.
2. Can I make salmon patties without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute mayonnaise or mashed potato for binding.
3. Can I air fry Southern salmon patties?
Absolutely. Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. What sauce goes best with salmon patties?
Try spicy remoulade, tartar sauce, or even ranch with a little hot sauce mixed in.
5. Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh salmon works great — just make sure it’s cooled before mixing.
6. Are Southern salmon patties healthy?
They’re packed with protein and omega-3s! You can also bake or air fry them for a lighter option.
Conclusion
These Southern Salmon Patties are everything you love about old-school Southern cooking — simple, crispy, and comforting. They’re perfect for weeknights, brunches, or even meal prep.
Try the recipe, post your plate on TikTok or Instagram, and tag #easymealstoprep. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more cozy, Southern-inspired meals.
Southern Salmon Patties: A Crispy Classic You’ll Want Every Week
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon for flaking the salmon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large skillet cast iron preferred
- Spatula for flipping patties
Ingredients
- 2 cans salmon, drained and flaked (bones removed if preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines)
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 0.25 cup oil for frying (vegetable or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Drain the canned salmon and remove any bones or skin. Flake it with a fork into a large bowl.
- Add diced onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture and shape into patties, about 3 inches wide.
- Add about ¼ inch of oil to a skillet over medium heat. Let it get hot — a small breadcrumb should sizzle.
- Cook each patty for 3–4 minutes per side, until crispy and golden brown. Work in batches if needed.
- Place the patties on a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce.
