Deliciously tender salmon meatballs baked to perfection, paired with a tangy, creamy avocado sauce.
🕒 Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- 🐟 High-Protein | 🥑 Gluten-Free Option | 🍽️ Healthy & Flavorful
🛒 Ingredients Checklist
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water to thin, if needed
🔪 Instructions
- Preheat oven: to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
- Form meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter) and place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.
- Prepare avocado sauce: While meatballs bake, blend avocado, garlic, lime juice, Greek yogurt, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender until smooth. Add water a teaspoon at a time to reach desired sauce consistency.
- Serve: Drizzle avocado sauce over warm salmon meatballs or serve on the side for dipping.
💡 Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle some sesame seeds on the meatballs before baking.
- Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb version.
- Use fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a different flavor twist.
📝 Introduction
If you love salmon but want a fun, finger-food twist, these baked salmon meatballs are the way to go! Light, flaky, and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce that adds tang and richness, this recipe is both wholesome and satisfying.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Prep & Mix
Finely chop the salmon and mix with seasonings, herbs, and binders.
Step 2: Shape & Bake
Form into meatballs and bake until just golden and cooked through.
Step 3: Blend Sauce
Whip up the creamy avocado sauce for a fresh, tangy complement.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Plate meatballs with sauce drizzled or on the side — perfect for dipping!
🧂 Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Salmon Fillet: Fresh or thawed wild or farmed salmon works great. Skinless and finely chopped for even texture.
- Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and moisture retention; gluten-free options available.
- Avocado: Ripe avocado makes the sauce creamy and mild with healthy fats.
Substitutions:
- No egg? Use flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 min).
- For dairy-free sauce, swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or omit entirely and use extra lime juice.
🍽️ Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Variations:
- Add 1 tsp chili flakes to meatballs for heat.
- Mix chopped capers or lemon zest into meatball mix for brightness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a fuller meal.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to retain moisture.
- Avocado sauce is best made fresh but can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 24 hours; add extra lime juice to prevent browning.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned salmon?
A: Fresh is best for texture, but well-drained canned salmon can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I know when meatballs are cooked?
A: They should be firm to the touch and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes! Freeze baked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months.
💬 Final Thoughts
These salmon meatballs are a quick, nutritious, and tasty way to enjoy seafood. The creamy avocado sauce balances the savory meatballs perfectly, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Give it a try and watch them disappear!
📣 Call to Action
Give these Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce a go and share your experience! Have a favorite twist? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to hear! Don’t forget to save and share this recipe with friends who love healthy eats.
