Emily
If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dinner, salmon burgers are a perfect choice. They’re packed with protein, full of omega-3 fatty acids, and taste fresh and flavorful. Plus, they’re easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just want something different from your usual burger night, these salmon burgers are sure to impress.
Why Salmon Burgers?
Salmon is a superfood. It’s not only rich in healthy fats that are good for your brain and heart, but it’s also full of flavor. Salmon burgers are lighter than beef burgers and offer a nice change of pace. You can grill them, pan-fry them, or even bake them—whatever fits your mood or kitchen setup. They’re also easy to customize with toppings and sauces.
Ingredients for Homemade Salmon Burgers
Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 salmon burgers:
- 1 pound fresh or canned salmon (skin removed if using fresh)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or plain mustard
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Optional for serving:
- Burger buns (whole grain or regular)
- Lettuce, tomato, red onion slices
- Avocado or pickles
- Tartar sauce, spicy mayo, or yogurt sauce
How to Make Salmon Burgers
1. Prepare the salmon
If you’re using fresh salmon, chop it finely with a knife or use a food processor to pulse it into small pieces. If you’re using canned salmon, drain it well and remove any bones.
2. Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, mustard, herbs, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it holds together well.
3. Form the patties
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts. Shape each part into a burger patty, about ½ inch thick. Place them on a plate and chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to help them hold their shape better when cooking.
4. Cook the burgers
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4–5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. You can also grill them for the same amount of time, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
5. Build your burger
Toast your buns if you like. Then add your cooked salmon burger, top with lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, or anything else you love. Don’t forget a sauce to add extra flavor—tartar, spicy mayo, or garlic yogurt sauce work great.
Tips for Perfect Salmon Burgers
- Don’t overmix the salmon or it can get too mushy. Mix just until everything holds together.
- Chilling the patties helps them stay firm when cooking and makes them easier to flip.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a small splash of olive oil or a spoon of Greek yogurt.
Healthy and Tasty
Salmon burgers are a great way to enjoy seafood in a fun and easy way. They’re high in protein and omega-3s, but lower in saturated fat than beef burgers. Pair them with a simple salad, sweet potato fries, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced and delicious meal.
Easy Side Dish Ideas
- A light cucumber and tomato salad
- Crispy oven-baked fries
- Coleslaw with lemon dressing
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Steamed broccoli with olive oil and garlic
Meal Prep and Storage
You can make the salmon patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked patties—just wrap them in plastic or place in a freezer bag with parchment paper between each one. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as usual.
A Fun Twist on Burger Night
Salmon burgers are a fresh take on a classic favorite. They’re quick to make, full of flavor, and much better than store-bought frozen patties. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just want to add variety to your meals, this recipe is worth adding to your weekly dinner rotation.
