Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy salmon burger, where the crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flaky interior that dances with flavors of zesty lemon and fragrant herbs. The aroma wafts through the air, teasing your senses and making your taste buds tingle in anticipation of that first bite, perfectly complemented by a dollop of creamy avocado sauce.

These salmon burgers are not just a meal; they evoke memories of sun-soaked summer barbecues or cozy family dinners where laughter fills the air. Picture yourself grilling these delightful patties on a warm evening, surrounded by friends and loved ones, as the promise of amazing flavor experiences unfolds with every mouthful.
Why Will You Keep Making salmon burgers?
Deliciously fresh salmon fillets blend beautifully with whole wheat breadcrumbs, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal. Zesty flavors from fresh dill and lemon juice elevate these burgers, making each bite burst with taste. Quick prep and cook times mean you can whip them up in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Customizable toppings, like cheddar cheese and crunchy lettuce, cater to every palate, ensuring even the pickiest eaters will love them. Enjoy the health benefits of salmon while savoring a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
salmon burgers Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet (skin removed and chopped) – Fresh salmon brings flavor and moisture, making these salmon burgers juicy and delicious.
- 1 cup bread crumbs (preferably whole wheat) – Whole wheat bread crumbs add a hearty texture; you can substitute with regular if preferred.
- 1 large egg (beaten) – The beaten egg acts as a binding agent, keeping your salmon burgers together while cooking.
- 2 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped) – Fresh dill adds a burst of flavor; feel free to use dried dill in a pinch.
- 2 tablespoon green onions (chopped) – Green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the salmon beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Garlic powder enhances the savory notes of these tasty salmon burgers.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Salt is essential for enhancing all the flavors in your burger mix.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – A touch of black pepper adds subtle warmth to every bite of your salmon burgers.
Toppings:
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (optional) – Melted cheddar cheese on top adds creaminess and richness to each burger if desired.
- 4 buns burger buns (toasted) – Toasting the buns adds crunch and prevents them from getting soggy with toppings.
- 1 cup lettuce (shredded) – Shredded lettuce provides a crisp texture and freshness to your delicious salmon burgers.
- 1 tomato sliced – Fresh tomato slices add juiciness and color, balancing the savory flavors of the burger.
- ½ cup tartar sauce (for serving) – Tartar sauce is a classic accompaniment that complements the flavors of the salmon perfectly.
How to Make salmon burgers
1. Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon fillet, whole wheat bread crumbs, beaten egg, fresh dill, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined for a deliciously flavorful blend.
2. Form patties: After mixing, form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. This will help ensure even cooking and that every bite is packed with goodness.
3. Preheat grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, allowing it to reach an ideal temperature for creating that perfect golden crust on your salmon burgers.
4. Cook patties: Place the salmon patties on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown finish and ensure they’re cooked through for a tender texture.
5. Assemble burgers: Place each cooked salmon patty on a toasted bun. This warm base perfectly complements the savory flavors of the fish.
6. Top generously: Finish by adding slices of cheddar cheese (if desired), shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce as desired. These toppings add freshness and zest!
Optional: Garnish with extra dill or lemon wedges for a vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best salmon burgers
- Fresh Salmon: Use a fresh salmon fillet for the best flavor. Frozen salmon can lead to a mushy texture in your patties.
- Binding Agent: Ensure the egg is fully beaten before mixing. This helps bind your salmon burgers together, preventing them from falling apart on the grill.
- Chop Evenly: Cut the salmon into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain a consistent texture throughout the patties.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix ingredients gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so handle them with care!
- Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill properly to medium-high heat. If it’s too low, your patties may stick or not brown nicely.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Avocado or a spicy aioli can elevate these salmon burgers even further.
How to Store and Freeze salmon burgers
Fridge: Store cooked salmon burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: Place uncooked salmon burger patties between parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating: Heat leftover salmon burgers in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side, or until warmed through.
Fresh Ingredients: Keep fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and dill stored separately in the fridge; use within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
salmon burgers Your Way
Feel free to get creative with these delightful patties and make them your own!
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a fiery twist. The warmth from the spice elevates the flavor profile and gives each bite a satisfying zing.
- Herb Garden: Swap out dill for fresh parsley or cilantro for a different herbal aroma. Each herb brings its unique freshness, transforming the taste and inviting an exciting Mediterranean flair.
- Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lime juice instead of lemon for a vibrant, tangy flavor. This subtle change brightens up the burgers and pairs beautifully with the salmon’s richness.
- Crunchy Addition: Mix in ¼ cup of finely chopped celery or bell peppers for added texture. The crunch complements the softness of the salmon, creating an enjoyable contrast in every bite.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or pepper jack instead of cheddar. Each type introduces its unique creaminess and flavor notes that enhance your burger experience.
- Nutty Flavor: Replace half of the breadcrumbs with ground almonds or walnuts for a nuttier taste. This not only alters the flavor but adds healthy fats and an interesting texture to your patties.
- Veggie Power: Add ½ cup of grated zucchini or carrot into the mix for extra nutrition. These veggies infuse moisture while subtly sweetening each burger, making them even more wholesome.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious salmon burgers are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome dinner in no time. You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time by combining 1 lb of chopped fresh salmon, 1 cup of whole wheat bread crumbs, 1 beaten egg, 2 tablespoon each of chopped dill and green onions, along with lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To maintain their quality, ensure they are tightly wrapped or placed in an airtight container. When you're ready to serve, simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Assembling the burgers with toasted buns, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce can be done fresh for a delightful meal that feels effortless!
salmon burgers Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for these salmon burgers?
Absolutely! If you're using frozen salmon, just make sure to thaw it completely before chopping. This will ensure that your patties hold together nicely and cook evenly. It’s best to let the salmon sit in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What can I substitute for bread crumbs?
If you don’t have bread crumbs on hand, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even ground almonds for a gluten-free option. Each of these alternatives will help bind the patties while adding a unique flavor and texture. Just remember to adjust the quantity slightly based on the absorbency of your chosen substitute!
How should I store leftover salmon burgers?
Leftover salmon burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them; they’ll last up to 3 months when well-wrapped!
What if my salmon patties fall apart on the grill?
To prevent your patties from falling apart, make sure your mixture is well combined and holds together before cooking. If you find they are too crumbly, try adding a bit more egg or breadcrumbs to help bind them. Also, handle them gently when flipping on the grill—let them cook undisturbed for about 5 minutes on each side for best results.
Can I make these salmon burgers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re prepping further in advance, form the patties and freeze them; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper so they don’t stick together!
What are some great toppings for salmon burgers?
While cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce are fantastic choices, feel free to get creative! Avocado slices add creaminess, while pickled onions provide a tangy crunch. You could even try adding fresh herbs like basil or arugula for an extra burst of flavor!

Salmon Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, bread crumbs, beaten egg, dill, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the salmon patties on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Place each cooked salmon patty on a toasted bun.
- Top with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce as desired.







