Name: Crispy Southern Fried Salmon Patties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488463H1M28S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 can (14 3/4 oz) salmon, drained and flaked; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1/4 cup cornmeal; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 egg; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

When I want something quick, comforting, and packed with Southern flavor, I whip up these Crispy Southern Fried Salmon Patties. Made with simple pantry staples and canned salmon, they’re crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally satisfying. Whether I serve them with a side of grits, rice, or just a dollop of hot sauce, they bring back that old-school, home-cooked flavor I love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s budget-friendly, fast, and full of flavor. It’s a great way to turn a humble can of salmon into a crispy, golden patty that’s perfect for dinner, lunch, or even brunch. The cornmeal gives it that signature Southern crunch, while the onion and mayo keep the inside moist and flavorful. Best of all, it comes together in minutes, so I can have a hot meal on the table with very little fuss.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 can (14 ¾ oz) salmon, drained and flaked
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup cornmeal
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
3 tablespoons mayonnaise

Directions

Prep the Salmon:
I start by draining the canned salmon and flaking it with a fork, making sure to remove any bones or skin if present.
Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, I combine the salmon, chopped onion, cornmeal, flour, egg, and mayonnaise. I stir everything together until it’s well mixed and holds its shape.
Shape the Patties:
I shape the mixture into patties—usually about 6 small ones or 4 larger ones, depending on how I’m serving them.
Fry Until Crispy:
I heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, then fry the patties for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. I transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 patties, serving 2 to 3 people depending on portion size. Prep time is just 10 minutes, and cook time is another 8–10 minutes, so I can have these ready to eat in under 20 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped bell peppers or celery for a little crunch, or a pinch of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick. If I’m feeling indulgent, I mix in a little shredded cheddar cheese. For a lighter version, I pan-fry them in a non-stick skillet with minimal oil or bake them at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

storage/reheating

Leftover patties keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I store them in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet over medium heat to keep the crust crispy. They can also be frozen and reheated straight from the freezer in the oven at 375°F until hot and crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Yes, I’ve made these with cooked, flaked fresh salmon. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Do I need to remove the skin and bones from the canned salmon?

I usually remove the large bones and any skin, but they’re edible and packed with calcium, so it’s really up to personal preference.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely. I bake them on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and cooked through.

What oil is best for frying?

I use vegetable or canola oil for a neutral flavor and good high-heat performance. Just enough to coat the bottom of the pan works well.

How can I keep the patties from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well combined and not too wet. If it’s too loose, I add a bit more cornmeal or flour until it holds together.

Conclusion

These Crispy Southern Fried Salmon Patties are a timeless recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Whether I’m making a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch, they always hit the spot. With their crispy crust and tender center, they bring Southern comfort to the table in under 30 minutes—and that’s something I can’t get enough of.