Southern Salmon Patties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these Southern Salmon Patties because they’re so easy to make yet full of flavor. The combination of flaky canned salmon, a touch of mayonnaise, and crunchy saltine crackers creates the perfect texture and taste. The frying process gives them that golden, crispy exterior, while the inside remains tender and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal that’s quick to make but still feels like a comforting treat. Plus, they’re versatile—serve them with tartar sauce, a squeeze of lemon, or even on a sandwich for a different twist!

Ingredients

• 1 lb canned salmon, drained and flaked

• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

• 1/2 cup crushed saltine crackers

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

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

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, chopped onion, crushed saltine crackers, mayonnaise, egg, and lemon juice.

2. Mix thoroughly and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

3. Form the mixture into 6–8 evenly sized patties.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

5. Fry the patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

6. Transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

7. Serve hot with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, or a side of your choice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 patties

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

While these salmon patties are delicious as is, they’re easily customizable to suit your tastes! You can add a bit of heat by incorporating cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños into the mixture. For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning to the patties. You could also experiment with different types of crackers, such as Ritz or graham crackers, for a slightly different texture.

Storage/Reheating

These salmon patties are great for leftovers! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until heated through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they might lose a bit of their crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh salmon for this recipe?

While canned salmon is typically used for convenience, you can absolutely substitute it with fresh salmon. Just cook and flake the salmon before mixing it with the other ingredients. You may need to adjust the seasoning and moisture content, as fresh salmon can be a bit drier than canned.

Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just form the patties, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready, cook them as directed.

Can I freeze these salmon patties?

Yes, these patties freeze well! After forming the patties, place them on a baking sheet and freeze them individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and fry them as usual.

What should I serve with these patties?

These salmon patties are great on their own, but you can serve them with a variety of sides. Try pairing them with a simple green salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. They’re also delicious on a sandwich or in a wrap.

Can I make these patties spicier?

Of course! If you like a little heat, you can add chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Conclusion

These Southern Salmon Patties are a quick, satisfying, and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. They’re packed with flavor, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside, making them a favorite comfort food. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels special and indulgent. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, a main course, or a snack, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!