Southern-Style Salmon Patties

Name: Southern-Style Salmon Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of salmon, drained and flaked; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Fusion Food

I love whipping up Southern-Style Salmon Patties because they remind me of family gatherings around the dinner table. These patties are packed with flavor, combining the richness of salmon with the zest of green onions and a hint of spice. The best part? They’re quick to prepare and great for any meal, whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a snack. Served with a side of tangy tartar sauce, this dish becomes an instant favorite that keeps everyone coming back for more. Trust me, once you try them, you won’t be able to resist!

Created by

The Chefdanielcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:56:28.589Z

Making Southern-Style Salmon Patties has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The first time I made them, I was amazed at how easily the ingredients came together, creating a cohesive and delicious mixture. I recommend using fresh salmon if you can find it, as it elevates the flavor to a whole new level.

Over the years, I've experimented with various seasonings and always found that a touch of cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick that balances the richness of the fish. My family loves how crispy they turn out on the outside while remaining tender inside – it's simply the best!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Packed with flavor, making them irresistible at any meal.
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Versatile—great as an appetizer, light lunch, or main dish.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of salmon is crucial for the flavor profile of these patties. Using canned salmon is convenient and provides a consistently rich taste, but fresh salmon can elevate the dish. If opting for fresh, be sure to poach or grill it first, as it will require proper cooking before mixing with other ingredients. Flaked canned salmon gives a smooth texture, while fresh creates a chunkier bite, making either option delicious but distinct in mouthfeel.

Breadcrumbs serve as a binder and texture improver in this recipe. You can opt for regular or panko breadcrumbs; the latter will yield a crunchier exterior when frying. If you're avoiding gluten, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour as substitutes. Just remember, the binding effect may differ slightly, so adjust quantities to achieve the desired consistency in the mixture.

Frying Tips

To achieve perfectly crispy patties, maintaining the right oil temperature is key. The oil should shimmer and be hot enough that a small piece of the mixture sizzles when added. Avoid turning the heat too high, which can burn the patties' exterior before they cook through. A medium heat allows for gradual cooking, promoting a golden color and a soft, moist interior.

Frying in batches is essential for even cooking. Placing too many patties in the skillet at once cools down the oil, leading to greasy results. I generally recommend frying no more than three patties at a time in a standard-sized skillet. Keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish frying the rest, ensuring they all remain crispy.

Serving Suggestions

These Southern-Style Salmon Patties shine when paired with a zesty tartar sauce, but don't shy away from creativity. A dollop of homemade remoulade or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness. For a healthier twist, serve them on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette, transforming them into a vibrant salad.

Consider adding a side of coleslaw for a classic Southern pairing, or even a simple cucumber salad, balancing the rich flavors. If you're making them for a crowd, they can be served as bite-sized appetizers. Just scale down the patties and offer toothpicks for easy snacking, making them perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Southern-Style Salmon Patties:

Ingredients

2 cans of salmon, drained and flaked
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start making those delicious patties!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your scrumptious salmon patties:

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Form the Patties

Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick. You can make them as small or large as you prefer.

Fry the Patties

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Serve

Once cooked, drain on paper towels and serve warm with tartar sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.

Now enjoy your delicious homemade Southern-Style Salmon Patties!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped herbs like dill or parsley to the mixture. If you want a crunchier texture, try using panko bread crumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These salmon patties can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Prepare the mixture and shape the patties, then place them on a lined baking sheet. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the taste when cooked.

If you want to store cooked patties, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. To reheat, bake them in a hot oven (about 375°F or 190°C) for around 15 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy outside.

Variations to Explore

While this recipe is delightful as is, there are numerous ways to customize the flavor. For a Mediterranean twist, add chopped olives and fresh herbs like dill or parsley, which complement the salmon beautifully. Alternatively, you can incorporate grated zucchini or carrots for added nutrition and moisture.

Spice enthusiasts might enjoy increasing the cayenne for a kick, or introducing diced jalapeños for a layer of heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the cayenne and replace it with some paprika for warmth without the spice. Each variation brings a unique character to the dish, allowing you to experiment and find your perfect version.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh salmon will give you a lovely taste and texture. Just cook and flake it before mixing.

→ How can I store leftover salmon patties?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I bake these patties instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden.

→ What can I serve with salmon patties?

They pair well with green salads, coleslaw, or even on a bun as a salmon burger.