Ultimate Healthy & Easy Salmon Burgers: Your Guide to Flavorful Homemade Patties
Dive into the world of delicious, wholesome meals with our incredibly easy salmon burger recipe. These aren’t just any burgers; they’re thick, juicy patties crafted from fresh salmon fillets, seasoned to perfection with Old Bay, a hint of Greek yogurt for moisture, and a blend of aromatic spices and breadcrumbs for the ideal texture. Forget dry, bland fish patties – this recipe guarantees a flavorful, protein-packed experience that will quickly become a healthy staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these salmon burgers promise a satisfying meal that’s both simple to prepare and undeniably tasty. Get ready to enjoy the healthiest, most mouthwatering burger you’ll ever sink your teeth into!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Salmon Burger Recipe
Are you searching for a meal that offers a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease? Look no further than these incredible salmon burgers. We’ve mastered the art of creating a thick, succulent burger that’s brimming with lean protein and heart-healthy fats, making it an excellent alternative to traditional beef. Here’s why this recipe stands out as a healthy and flavorful choice:
- Nutrient Powerhouse: Salmon is renowned for its high content of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation. Beyond that, it’s packed with essential vitamins like B12 and D, and minerals such as selenium. By making salmon the star of your burger, you’re not just eating well; you’re fueling your body with goodness.
- Incredibly Moist and Flavorful: The natural oils in salmon ensure these patties stay wonderfully moist, preventing the dry texture often associated with leaner burgers. Our unique blend of Old Bay seasoning, fresh onion, and aromatic garlic salt infuses each bite with a vibrant, savory taste that perfectly complements the rich salmon. The addition of Greek yogurt further enhances moisture and adds a subtle tang.
- Simple & Quick Preparation: Despite their gourmet taste, these salmon burgers are surprisingly easy to assemble. With a food processor doing most of the heavy lifting, you can have the patties formed and ready for cooking in under 15 minutes. This makes them an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.
- Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer a classic bun, a light lettuce wrap, or even serving them atop a fresh salad, these burgers adapt beautifully to your preferences. The mild yet distinct flavor of salmon allows for a wide range of toppings and sauces, letting you get creative with every meal.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters often enjoy salmon in burger form! The familiar shape and delightful taste make it an approachable way to introduce more seafood into your family’s diet.
Once you try these salmon burgers, you’ll understand why they’re hands down the tastiest and healthiest burger you’ll ever make. Don’t just take our word for it – give them a try and experience the delicious difference!
Key Ingredients for Perfect Salmon Burgers
To create these incredibly flavorful and juicy salmon burgers, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. While the full list with measurements is available in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, here’s a detailed look at the core components and why they work so well:
Ingredient Spotlight & Expert Substitutions
SALMON: The foundation of our burger! We typically recommend using center-cut salmon fillets for their consistent texture and lean-to-fat ratio. However, since the fish will be ground, you have flexibility with the cut, as long as the salmon is raw and fresh. Both wild-caught and farmed salmon will work, with wild-caught often offering a richer flavor and color. If using frozen salmon, ensure it is completely thawed and patted dry before processing to prevent excess moisture. This is crucial for patties that hold their shape. For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh raw salmon from your local seafood counter. Important: Canned or pouch salmon has a different texture and moisture content, making it unsuitable for these burgers. Save it for recipes like our delicious salmon croquettes instead!
OLD BAY SEASONING: This iconic blend is a game-changer, providing a distinctive savory, spicy, and herbaceous flavor that perfectly complements seafood. It’s a staple for a reason! If you don’t have Old Bay, you can create a similar flavor profile with a mix of paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.
ONION POWDER & GARLIC SALT: These pantry heroes add foundational savory depth. Onion powder provides a concentrated onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onion, while garlic salt offers both garlic pungency and necessary seasoning. Adjust garlic salt to your preference, keeping in mind its sodium content.
CHOPPED ONION: Fresh onion contributes a crisp texture and a pungent, fresh bite that brightens the overall flavor. Finely chop it to ensure it blends seamlessly into the patties.
PLAIN GREEK YOGURT: This is our secret ingredient for ultra-moist and tender salmon burgers! Greek yogurt adds moisture, a subtle tang, and acts as a binder, helping the patties hold together without adding excessive fat. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, a small amount of mayonnaise or even a beaten egg can serve as a binder, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
CHOPPED FRESH PARSLEY: Fresh herbs are essential for bright, vibrant flavor. Parsley adds a herbaceous note and a pop of color. Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs like dill or chives, which also pair beautifully with salmon.
BREAD CRUMBS: Bread crumbs are vital for binding the mixture and absorbing any excess moisture, ensuring your patties don’t fall apart during cooking. Regular dried bread crumbs work well, but for an extra crispy exterior, you can use Panko bread crumbs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or a small amount of almond flour.
OLIVE OIL: Used for pan-frying, olive oil helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and ensures even cooking. You can also use other high smoke point oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
How to Make Delicious Homemade Salmon Burgers
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Prepare the Salmon: Begin by carefully removing the skin from your raw salmon fillets. Using a sharp Chef’s knife, lay the fillet skin-side down on a cutting board. Start at the tail end, slide your knife between the skin and the flesh, holding the skin firmly with your other hand. Angle the knife slightly towards the skin and gently saw back and forth until the skin separates. This technique ensures you lose minimal flesh.
TIP – If you’re not comfortable removing the skin yourself, don’t hesitate to ask your butcher or the grocer’s meat counter to do this for you. They often offer this service for free and can do it quickly and efficiently, saving you time and effort.
- Process the Salmon Mixture: Once skinned, cut the salmon flesh into rough chunks. Transfer these chunks to a food processor. Add the Old Bay seasoning, onion powder, garlic salt, and fresh chopped onion. Secure the lid and pulse the mixture until the salmon is ground and no large chunks remain. The consistency should be fine but not pasty. Over-processing can make the mixture too smooth, affecting the burger’s texture.
TIP – If you do not own a food processor, you can achieve a similar result by dicing the salmon incredibly small with your chef’s knife. Once finely diced, transfer it to a bowl and use a fork or your hands to mash it further until it reaches a ground consistency. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
- Combine & Bind: Carefully move the processed salmon mixture from the food processor into a large mixing bowl. Now, add the plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh parsley, and bread crumbs. These ingredients are crucial for both flavor and binding the patties together.
- Form the Patties: For best results and to ensure even mixing, put on a pair of gloves. Use your hands to gently but thoroughly combine all the ingredients in the bowl. Mix until everything is just incorporated – avoid overmixing, which can toughen the salmon. Once combined, divide the mixture into four equal portions and carefully form each portion into thick, uniform patties, about 1-inch thick. Aim for a size that will fit well on a burger bun.
- Preheat Skillet: Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best) over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it begins to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough to create a beautiful crust.
- Cook the Burgers: Carefully place the salmon patties into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust and for the internal temperature of the salmon to reach 145°F (63°C). The patties should feel firm to the touch when cooked through. Avoid moving them too much during cooking to allow a good sear to form.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Salmon Burgers
To maintain freshness and flavor, store leftover cooked salmon burger patties in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to store toppings like lettuce, tomato, and sauces separately to prevent the buns from getting soggy and to keep the fresh components crisp. When reheating, gently warm the patties in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through, or use an air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Absolutely! Salmon burger patties freeze beautifully, whether cooked or uncooked. For uncooked patties, lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a large freezer-safe ziptop bag or air-tight container, placing parchment paper between each patty for easy separation. Cooked patties can also be frozen in an air-tight container or ziptop bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality. Thaw frozen patties overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
Yes, preparing these salmon burgers in advance is a fantastic time-saver! You can mix all the ingredients and shape the salmon patties up to a day ahead. Store the uncooked patties, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an air-tight container, in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for an even quicker meal prep on cooking day.
Yes, these salmon burgers are versatile and can be baked or air-fried!
For baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and golden brown.
For air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the patties with cooking oil and cook for 10-14 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and are nicely crispy.
If your patties are struggling to hold their shape, it’s usually due to too much moisture or not enough binder. Here are a few troubleshooting tips:
- Add More Bread Crumbs: Gradually mix in an additional tablespoon or two of bread crumbs to absorb excess moisture.
- Chill the Mixture: Placing the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes can help it firm up, making the patties easier to form and less prone to breaking.
- Ensure Salmon is Dry: Always pat your raw salmon fillets very dry with paper towels before processing to remove any surface moisture.
Gentle handling during cooking is also key!
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Salmon Burger Experience
The beauty of these salmon burgers lies in their versatility. While they are phenomenal on their own, the right accompaniments can transform them into an unforgettable meal. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions to inspire your next dinner:
Buns & Wraps: Serve your perfectly cooked salmon burger on a soft, toasted brioche bun for a touch of sweetness and richness. Other excellent choices include whole-wheat buns for a healthier option, artisanal ciabatta rolls, or even a light and refreshing lettuce wrap for a low-carb alternative.
Classic Toppings: Customize your burger with your favorite fresh toppings. Sliced ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, red onion rings (thinly sliced), and a slice of melty cheese (cheddar, provolone, or Swiss all work well) are always popular choices. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider adding crispy bacon strips or creamy avocado slices.
Sensational Sauces: A great sauce can truly make your salmon burger sing!
- Homemade Tartar Sauce: Our recipe for classic tartar sauce is an absolute must-try, offering a tangy and creamy counterpoint.
- Remoulade: For a touch of Creole flair, a zesty remoulade sauce adds a wonderful depth.
- Sriracha Mayo: If you love a little heat, a simple mix of Sriracha and mayonnaise provides a delicious spicy kick.
- Cilantro Lime Crema: A refreshing cilantro lime sauce brings a vibrant, citrusy element that pairs beautifully with salmon.
- Dedicated Salmon Sauce: Explore our special salmon sauce recipe for another unique and complementary option.
Perfect Side Dishes: Complete your meal with a satisfying side. Alongside classic waffle fries, crispy potato chips, or sweet potato fries, consider these lighter, equally delicious options:
- Creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy vegetable boost.
- Quinoa salad or couscous for a wholesome grain option.
Mix and match these suggestions to create your perfect salmon burger experience every time!
Explore More Delicious Salmon Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the versatility and flavor of salmon, you’re in luck! This incredible fish can be prepared in countless ways, offering a range of culinary experiences from elegant dinners to quick, healthy lunches. Discover more of our favorite salmon recipes:
- Flavorful Dill Salmon
- Sweet & Savory Teriyaki Salmon
- Elegant Stuffed Salmon
- Zesty Salmon Tacos
- Creamy Smoked Salmon Dip
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Salmon Burgers
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 1 ¼ pound raw salmon
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 2 Tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 3 Tablespoons bread crumbs
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
Things You’ll Need
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Chef’s knife
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Food processor
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Mixing bowls
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Vinyl gloves
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Large heavy bottomed skillet
Before You Begin
- We usually use center cut salmon for our recipes, however since this fish will be ground up you can use any cut, as long as the fish is raw.
- If you don’t have a food processor you can dice the salmon really small then mix it well in a bowl until it is ground.
- Store leftover salmon burger patties in an air-tight container, toppings stored separately, for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.
- You can freeze salmon burger patties both cooked and uncooked. For uncooked patties, lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen uncooked patties to a large ziptop bag with parchment paper between each patty. Cooked patties can be stored in either an air-tight container or large ziptop bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- You can prepare and shape the salmon patties a day in advance and store them, covered, in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them.
Instructions
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Using a sharp Chef’s knife, remove the skin from the salmon.
HINT – you may be able to ask your butcher or grocer’s meat counter to do this for you.
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Cut skinned salmon into chunks and place into a food processor. Add Old Bay, onion powder, garlic salt, and onion. Process until no large chunks remain and salmon is ground.
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Move the contents of the food processor to a bowl and add Greek yogurt, parsley, and bread crumbs.
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Using gloved hands, turn to combine mixture well, then form into 4 patties.
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Heat olive oil in a large heavy bottomed skillet over medium-high until shimmering.
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Add salmon patties to the pan and cook for 4 minutes per side.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.