Old Fashioned Salmon Patties

These Old Fashioned Salmon Patties are light, crispy, and super flavorful. This classic recipe is a simple and affordable way to put supper on the table.

Salmon Patties are a classic Southern dish made from canned salmon, bread crumbs or crackers, and a few simple seasonings. They’re formed into patties and fried until golden brown. They’re a budget-friendly way to enjoy the rich, savory taste of salmon, and they’ve been a staple on Southern tables for generations.

What’s the difference between salmon patties and salmon croquettes?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but some argue there’s a subtle difference. Salmon Patties are typically more rustic, with simple ingredients like salmon, egg, and breadcrumbs, often fried up quickly in a skillet. Some even refer to them as salmon cakes. Croquettes, on the other hand, tend to be a bit more refined, often incorporating additional ingredients like onions, peppers, or even mashed potatoes, and they might be shaped into ovals or logs before being fried. This salmon patty recipe is sort of an amalgamation of both ideas.

Old Fashioned Salmon Patties on a platter.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! While canned salmon is the traditional choice for its convenience and affordability, you can certainly use fresh salmon if you prefer. Just cook the salmon first, flake it with a fork, and proceed with the recipe as usual. You’ll probably need about 2 cups. Keep in mind that fresh salmon may need a bit of extra seasoning, as canned salmon often comes with added salt.

Do I have to remove the bones and skin?

When using canned salmon, you’ll often find that it includes both bones and skin. The good news is that you don’t have to remove them if you don’t want to. The bones are soft enough to be mashed into the mixture, adding a boost of calcium, and the skin is full of healthy fats. However, if the texture bothers you or you prefer a smoother patty, you can certainly take a few minutes to pick them out. It’s really up to your personal preference!

What should I serve with Salmon Patties?

Salmon patties pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a classic Southern meal, serve them with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, salad, or buttered corn. You can even turn these into salmon burgers by serving them on buns. You can also add a side of tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors. And don’t forget the cornbread or biscuits to round out the meal!

How do I keep my Salmon Patties from falling apart?

The key to keeping salmon patties from crumbling is making sure you have the right balance of binding ingredients. Eggs and breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers) help hold the patties together. If your mixture seems too dry, add a little bit of mayonnaise or another egg. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in more breadcrumbs. Also, chill the patties in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before frying to help them firm up.

Can salmon patties be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix up the patties and form them ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. I wouldn’t recommend anymore than 4 hours or so.

You can also freeze uncooked salmon patties by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw and fry as usual.

Recipe Card

Notes

You may have to add a little additional flour or additional buttermilk to get the mixture to the right consistency to form the patties.

Nutrition

* If nutritional values are provided, they are an estimate and will vary depending on the brands used. The values do not include optional ingredients or when ingredients are added to taste. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, I recommend grabbing your favorite brands and plugging those ingredients into an online nutritional calculator.

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