Old Fashioned Salmon Patties – A Crispy, Classic Comfort Food
There’s something timeless about old fashioned salmon patties. This classic Southern-inspired dish has been a family staple for generations—simple, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Made with canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a few pantry spices, salmon patties come together in minutes and fry up to golden perfection. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy them for a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty lunch, or as part of a Sunday family meal, these salmon patties bring back nostalgic comfort with every bite.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 (14.75 oz / 418 g) can pink salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed saltine crackers)
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning (or paprika + pinch of cayenne)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Prepare the Salmon – Drain the canned salmon and remove any large bones or skin. Flake the salmon into a mixing bowl.
- Mix the Ingredients – Add the egg, breadcrumbs, onion, milk, lemon juice, seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and can hold its shape.
- Shape the Patties – Form the mixture into 6–8 medium-sized patties (about ½ inch thick).
- Heat the Oil – In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook the Patties – Fry the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain & Serve – Place patties on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve warm.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serving Size: 6–8 patties (4 servings)
Tips & Variations
- Extra Crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for more crunch.
- Southern Style: Substitute crushed saltine crackers for breadcrumbs for a true old-fashioned touch.
- Flavor Boost: Add chopped green onions, dill, or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Oven-Baked Option: Bake patties at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway for a lighter version.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in ¼ cup shredded cheddar for extra richness.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 260 kcal |
| Protein | 21 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
(Values may vary depending on specific brands and cooking method.)
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil: Bake or air-fry the salmon patties instead of pan-frying.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Keto-Friendly: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
- Dairy-Free: Skip the milk or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Low-Sodium: Rinse canned salmon and use reduced-sodium seasoning blends.
Serving Suggestions
Old fashioned salmon patties are versatile and pair beautifully with many sides. Serve them with mashed potatoes and green beans for a hearty dinner, on a toasted bun with tartar sauce for a salmon burger, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. They also taste fantastic with remoulade, spicy mayo, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
This classic recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create timeless comfort food that never goes out of style.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned salmon?
Yes! Cooked and flaked fresh salmon works beautifully, but canned salmon gives the traditional flavor and convenience.
Q2: How do I keep salmon patties from falling apart?
Make sure you have enough binder (egg + breadcrumbs/crackers). If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
Q3: Can I freeze salmon patties?
Yes! Shape uncooked patties, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
Q4: What’s the best oil for frying salmon patties?
Use vegetable oil, canola oil, or light olive oil—any oil with a high smoke point.
Q5: Are salmon patties healthy?
Yes, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein. Frying adds calories, but baking or air-frying makes them healthier.
