Here’s a classic Southern Salmon Patties recipe—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and simple pantry ingredients. These are also called salmon cakes or croquettes in some places.
🐟 Southern Salmon Patties
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 can (14–15 oz) salmon, drained and flaked (bones optional to remove)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers for Southern style)
- 2–3 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1–2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for moisture)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but adds depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
👨🍳 Instructions
1. Mix the patties
- In a bowl, combine salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, mayo, mustard, and seasonings.
- Mix until it holds together but isn’t too wet. Add a bit more breadcrumbs if needed.
2. Form patties
- Shape into 4–6 patties (about palm-sized).
- Let them rest 5–10 minutes so they firm up.
3. Fry until golden
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
4. Drain & serve
- Place on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve hot.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Classic: with white rice and hot sauce
- Southern style: with coleslaw and cornbread
- Breakfast twist: with eggs and grits
- Sandwich: on a bun with lettuce and tartar sauce
🔥 Tips for Best Results
- Use saltine crackers instead of breadcrumbs for authentic Southern texture.
- Chill patties before frying if they’re soft—they’ll hold together better.
- Don’t flip too early; let a crust form first.