Budget-Friendly • High-Protein • Heart Healthy • Alpha-Gal Friendly
This is a healthier take on a Southern comfort food favorite! These Southern-Style Salmon Patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with lean protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fats. Using canned wild-caught salmon makes this recipe affordable, convenient, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re trying to eat more Omega-3s or simply need a quick, budget-friendly meal, these salmon patties are a delicious way to support heart health while enjoying a classic family favorite. Pair them with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal the whole family will love. This recipe was inspired by our dietitian-to-be intern Sienna!
Estimated Cost (Based on Average Grocery Prices)
| Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Canned Alaskan Pink Salmon | $4.25 |
| Whole Wheat Bread | $1.50 |
| Egg | $0.35 |
| Onion | $0.75 |
| Lemon Juice | $0.15 |
| Garlic Powder, salt, and pepper | $0.10 |
| Olive oil | $0.20 |
Total Recipe Cost: ~$7.30
Servings: 5 (2 patties per serving)
Cost per serving: $1.46
Where the Nutrition Comes From
- Salmon: Provides complete protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, selenium, and vitamin B12 to support heart health, brain function, and muscle recovery. Canned salmon with bones also provides an excellent source of calcium.
- Whole Wheat Bread: Supplies fiber that helps with lasting energy while helping support digestive health.
- Egg: Adds complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, along with choline to support brain health and muscle function.
- Onion: Provides antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds that support heart health while adding flavor without excess sodium.
- Lemon Juice: Adds fresh citrus flavor and a small boost of vitamin C that complements the richness of the salmon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these salmon patties with:
- Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes
- Roasted Sweet Potato Fries
- Pineapple Cowboy Caviar
- Steamed Green Beans
- Roasted Broccoli
- Cucumber Tomato Salad
- Brown Rice or Quinoa
- Fresh fruit for a complete balanced plate
For a lighter meal, serve over a mixed green salad with a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Why We Think You’ll Love This Recipe!
✔ Classic Southern comfort food made healthier
✔ Alpha-gal friendly
✔ Excellent source of lean protein
✔ Rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fats
✔ Budget-friendly using pantry staples
✔ Ready in about 1 hour (including chilling time)
✔ Great for meal prep and leftovers
Nutrition Tip From Sienna
Pair these salmon patties with a high-fiber vegetable and a whole grain or starchy vegetable to create a balanced meal that supports heart health, recovery, and lasting energy. For athletes or those with higher protein needs, serve with a side of Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt), cottage cheese, or an extra serving of vegetables and quinoa to increase the overall protein and nutrient content of the meal.
Check out the recipe below:
Recommended products to help with this recipe:
- Glass Storage Containers with Lids
- Electric Can Opener
- Nutrichef Knife Set
- Cutting Boards
- Stainless Steel Skillet
*This recipe contains affiliate links, which means that I will earn a small percentage of any sales, at no extra cost to you.

Southern-Style Salmon Patties
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, empty the canned salmon (including the juice).
- Add the egg, lemon juice, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chopped onions into the bowl.
- Tear 6 slices of bread into tiny pieces and add them to the bowl. Mix until combined. Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat stove to medium heat and add 1 tbsp of olive oil into the pan.
- Measure out 3-4 tbsp of mix and shape into a patty. Cook patty on each side for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover salmon patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Place cooked patties between sheets of parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet, air fryer, or 350°F oven until heated through to help maintain their crispy texture.







