Salmon Burger Recipe

5-Star Salmon Burger Recipe That Will Have Everyone Asking for Seconds

There’s nothing quite like a homemade salmon burger: juicy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a burger enthusiast looking to try something new or just searching for a healthy, easy dinner option, this recipe is for you. Today, I’m sharing my ultimate 5-star salmon burger recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. What makes this recipe so special? It’s versatile, can be made with fresh, frozen, canned salmon, or even leftover cooked salmon, and can be prepared using different methods like grilled, baked, or in an air fryer.

Cooking has always been my way of bringing people together. This salmon burger recipe has been a hit at countless gatherings with my family and friends, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Let’s dive in!

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Why Salmon Burgers?

Salmon is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins. Making salmon burgers allows you to enjoy all these benefits in a fun and flavorful way. Plus, they’re a healthy alternative to beef burgers without sacrificing taste.

This recipe offers options for everyone, whether you’re using canned salmon from your pantry or taking advantage of leftover cooked salmon from last night’s dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues and delivers restaurant-quality results with ease.

Ingredients for Success

Here’s what you’ll need to make four delicious salmon burgers:

1 lb fresh salmon (or canned salmon, drained and flaked)

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for texture)

1 large egg, lightly beaten

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

2 green onions, finely chopped

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Salmon

If using fresh salmon, start by removing the skin and pin bones, then finely chop or pulse it in a food processor until coarsely ground. For frozen salmon, make sure it’s fully thawed. If you’re using canned salmon, drain it well and remove any large bones (although the small bones are edible and nutritious).

2. Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, green onions, dill, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

3. Forming the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2-inch thick. Place the patties on a plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up.

Cooking Methods

Grilled Salmon Burgers

Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking. Preheat the grill to medium heat, then cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Air-Fried Salmon Burgers

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Lightly spray the basket with oil, then cook the patties for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Baked Salmon Burgers

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and bake the patties for 12-15 minutes, flipping once halfway through.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools

To make your cooking process smoother, here are some handy tools I personally use and recommend:

1. Cuisinart Mini Food Processor

This compact food processor is perfect for chopping salmon and other ingredients. It’s easy to clean and saves time in the kitchen.

Why I love it: Its small size fits perfectly in my kitchen, and it’s versatile enough for a variety of tasks.

Get yours here and elevate your salmon burger prep!

2. Presto Electric Indoor Grill

For perfectly grilled salmon burgers anytime, even when it’s raining outside.

Why I love it: It’s compact, easy to store, and ensures even cooking with a delicious char.

Grab yours here and enjoy grilling all year round!

3. COSORI Air Fryer

This air fryer makes cooking healthier and faster. Perfect for salmon burgers and much more.

Why I love it: The large capacity and multiple cooking presets make it my go-to for quick meals.

Click here to make your air fryer dreams a reality!

The Best Toppings and Sides

No burger is complete without the perfect toppings and sides. Here are my favorite pairings:

Toppings

Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinegar dressing complements the richness of the salmon.

Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado chunks mixed with lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes add a fresh, zesty kick.

Classic Fixings: Lettuce, tomato, and a smear of garlic aioli or tartar sauce.

Sides

Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or air-fried for a healthy twist.

Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus are fantastic options.

Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette keeps the meal fresh and balanced.

Why This Recipe is the Best

This recipe stands out because it’s:

Versatile: Works with any type of salmon—fresh, frozen, canned, or leftover.

Healthy: Packed with protein and omega-3s.

Simple: Easy to follow and adaptable for different cooking methods.

Delicious: Guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze the patties?

Yes! Once formed, wrap the patties individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen or thaw in the fridge before cooking.

2. What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

You can substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

3. How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?

Swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour and serve the burgers on lettuce wraps instead of buns.

This 5-star salmon burger recipe truly delivers on flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you choose to grill, bake, or air-fry, you’ll end up with a healthy, homemade meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to try out the recommended products to make your cooking experience even better!

Ready to wow your family and friends? Give this recipe a try and share your creations in the comments below. Happy cooking!