These baked salmon meatballs are light, flavorful, and packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrusy brightness. Tender salmon bites are baked until perfectly golden, then topped with a creamy avocado sauce that adds a cool, silky finish to every bite.
This elegant yet easy recipe feels restaurant-quality while still being simple enough for a healthy weeknight dinner. High in protein and full of fresh ingredients, these salmon meatballs are perfect for seafood lovers looking for something different and delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Salmon Meatballs
- High-protein healthy meal
- Tender and juicy salmon texture
- Fresh herb and lemon flavor
- Creamy avocado sauce
- Easy oven-baked recipe
- Perfect for lunch, dinner, or appetizers
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
For the Avocado Cream Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
How to Make Salmon Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to:
400∘F400^\circ F
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Salmon Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Chopped salmon
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Garlic
- Dill
- Parsley
- Dijon mustard
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Lemon juice
Mix gently until just combined.
Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Using a spoon or small scoop, form the mixture into meatballs about:
1–1.5 inch meatballs1\text{–}1.5\text{ inch meatballs}
Place them on the prepared baking sheet with space between each one.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for:
15–18 minutes15\text{–}18\text{ minutes}
Bake until lightly golden and cooked through while keeping the centers moist and tender.
Step 5: Make the Avocado Cream Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Avocado
- Greek yogurt
- Garlic
- Lime juice
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Serve
Arrange the warm salmon meatballs on a serving platter and drizzle generously with avocado cream sauce.
Garnish with:
- Fresh dill
- Parsley
- Lime wedges
What to Serve with Salmon Meatballs
These pair perfectly with:
- Rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh salad
- Garlic potatoes
- Quinoa
- Couscous
Pro Tips
- Use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture or they may become dense.
- Chill the mixture briefly if it feels too soft to shape.
- Add extra lime juice for brighter avocado sauce.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (approximate):
- 420 calories
- 35g protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I air fry these salmon meatballs?
Yes! Air fry at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
Can I use canned salmon?
Fresh salmon gives the best texture, but canned salmon can work in a pinch.
How long does the avocado sauce last?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
