These Baked Salmon Meatballs are flaky, tender, and full of rich, savory flavor. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they make for the perfect healthy dinner or appetizer. The salmon provides a great source of omega-3s and protein, while the creamy avocado sauce adds a fresh, cooling element to the dish. Serve with a side salad or veggies for a complete, satisfying meal!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Protein-Packed – Salmon is a lean source of protein and loaded with healthy fats.
Oven-Baked – No frying needed, which means less oil and an easier cleanup.
Creamy & Refreshing Sauce – The avocado sauce brings a cool, tangy contrast to the savory meatballs.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Great for lunches, appetizers, or healthy snacks throughout the week.
Naturally Gluten-Free Option – Just swap breadcrumbs for almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Baked Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets – Skinless and boneless for easy preparation
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and keep them light
- 1 large egg – Adds structure and moisture
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – For freshness and color
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens the flavor of the salmon
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For greasing the baking sheet and drizzling
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado – For the creamy base
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – For a fresh, zesty flavor
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – To smooth the sauce
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – For extra flavor
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- Water – To thin the sauce, if necessary
Tools You’ll Need
- Sharp knife or food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Blender or food processor for the sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Chop the fresh salmon into small pieces using a sharp knife or pulse it in a food processor until finely chopped. Be careful not to over-process—the texture should be slightly coarse.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Mix the ingredients gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
5. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into 12–14 meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
6. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and lightly drizzle with olive oil.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 145°F (63°C). Let them rest for a few minutes after baking.
Step 4: Make the Avocado Sauce
9. While the meatballs are baking, prepare the creamy avocado sauce.
10. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
11. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add water 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
12. Once the meatballs are slightly cooled, serve them with a generous drizzle of creamy avocado sauce or serve the sauce on the side as a dip.
13. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.
Tips for the Best Salmon Meatballs
Use Fresh Salmon – Fresh fillets deliver the best texture and flavor. If using canned salmon, drain thoroughly and remove bones and skin.
Chop with Texture in Mind – Don’t puree the salmon; small chunks add a pleasant bite.
Don’t Overmix – Mix until ingredients just come together to keep the meatballs tender.
Make Ahead – Form the meatballs and refrigerate them up to a day ahead for easy prep.
Add Heat – Spice things up with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
With a Side Salad – A fresh cucumber and tomato salad or leafy greens pair perfectly.
On a Bed of Quinoa or Rice – Make it a hearty meal by serving over whole grains.
In a Wrap or Pita – Turn them into a fun lunch by stuffing into flatbread with lettuce and sauce.
As an Appetizer – Serve with toothpicks and the avocado sauce as a dip.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing:
Refrigerate: Store cooled meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze cooked meatballs on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
Microwave: Use medium power and reheat in 30-second bursts.
Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick pan over medium heat with a splash of water or oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned salmon?
Yes, just make sure to drain it well and remove any skin or bones. - What’s a good substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use almond flour, oat flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. - Can I make the avocado sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If making ahead, store it in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to avoid browning. - What else can I serve the avocado sauce with?
It’s delicious as a dip for veggies, a spread on sandwiches, or even as a salad dressing! - Are these meatballs kid-friendly?
Absolutely! You can even leave out the Dijon mustard and garlic for a more neutral flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are everything you want in a healthy recipe—simple, flavorful, and nourishing. Whether you serve them as a protein-packed dinner or a fresh party appetizer, they’re sure to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.
Try them out and let me know how you like them! Don’t forget to leave a review and share your dish on Pinterest or Instagram—I love seeing your creations!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 380mg
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
These Baked Salmon Meatballs are flaky, tender, and full of rich, savory flavor. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they make for the perfect healthy dinner or appetizer. The salmon provides a great source of omega-3s and protein, while the creamy avocado sauce adds a fresh, cooling element to the dish. Serve with a side salad or veggies for a complete, satisfying meal!
Subscribe to our newsletter for more healthy recipes delivered straight to your inbox!
Ingredients
-
Ingredients for Baked Salmon Meatballs
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillets – Skinless and boneless for easy preparation.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and keep them light.
- 1 large egg – Adds structure and moisture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – For freshness and color.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Brightens the flavor of the salmon.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For greasing the baking sheet and drizzling.
Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Sauce
- 1 ripe avocado – For the creamy base.
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice – For a fresh, zesty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon olive oil – To smooth the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder – For extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Water – To thin the sauce, if necessary.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Use a sharp knife to chop the fresh salmon into small pieces or pulse the salmon in a food processor until finely chopped. Be sure not to over-process—it should still have texture.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Form the mixture into 12-14 meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with a little olive oil to help with browning.
Step 3: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 145°F or 63°C).
Step 4: Make the Avocado Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, make the creamy avocado sauce.
In a food processor or blender, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth, adding water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve the salmon meatballs with the creamy avocado sauce drizzled on top or as a dipping sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use Fresh Salmon – Fresh salmon gives the best flavor and texture, but you can also use canned salmon if necessary. Just be sure to drain it well.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined to keep them light and tender.
- Make Ahead – You can form the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Add Some Heat – If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the avocado sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Modern American
