These 5-ingredient southern salmon patties are one of those weeknight lifesavers I reach for when the day has completely gotten away from me. They’re inspired by the kind of pantry-friendly fish cakes a lot of Southern grandmas made with canned salmon, a couple of staples, and a hot skillet of oil. No fancy chopping, no long marinating—just simple, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside patties that taste like comfort food and come together in about 20 minutes. They’re perfect for those nights when you want a home-cooked dinner but you’re also staring at your inbox thinking, “Nope, we’re keeping it simple tonight.”
These salmon patties are super versatile, which is exactly what I need on a busy weeknight. I love serving them with a quick side of coleslaw or a bagged salad mix for crunch and freshness. If I have a little more time, I’ll throw together some skillet green beans or roasted broccoli. They’re also great with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a slice of cornbread. For something lighter, tuck a patty into a bun or on top of mixed greens with a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of tartar sauce or hot sauce—it easily becomes a no-fuss, restaurant-feeling meal at home.
Southern 5-Ingredient Salmon Patties
Ingredients
2 (5–6 oz) cans salmon, drained and flaked (bones and skin removed if desired)
1/2 cup finely crushed saltine crackers (or plain bread crumbs)
1/4 cup finely diced onion (or 1 tablespoon dried minced onion)
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (or salt to taste)
Oil for pan-frying (vegetable or canola), for the skillet
1/2 cup finely crushed saltine crackers (or plain bread crumbs)
1/4 cup finely diced onion (or 1 tablespoon dried minced onion)
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (or salt to taste)
Oil for pan-frying (vegetable or canola), for the skillet
Directions
