Juicy, flavorful salmon meatballs baked to golden perfection and paired with a refreshing, tangy avocado sauce. A healthy twist on classic meatballs thatβs perfect for dinner, meal prep, or entertaining.
π Recipe Card
Hook
Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce β A light yet satisfying dish made with tender salmon, herbs, and spices, served with a zesty avocado-garlic sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Servings & Timing
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 18β20 minutes
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Total Time: ~35 minutes
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Yield: 16β18 meatballs (serves 4β6)
Dietary Badges
π High-Protein | π± Low-Carb Friendly | π₯ Gluten-Free Option (use GF breadcrumbs)
Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs:
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1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, finely chopped (or pulsed in food processor)
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Β½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg, lightly beaten
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Β½ tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
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1 ripe avocado π₯
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ΒΌ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Heat to 400Β°F (200Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
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Make Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine chopped salmon, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
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Shape Meatballs: Form mixture into 1-inch balls (about 16β18). Place on baking sheet.
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Bake: Brush tops lightly with olive oil. Bake for 18β20 minutes, until cooked through and slightly golden.
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Make Avocado Sauce: Blend avocado, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Serve: Plate salmon meatballs with avocado sauce for dipping or drizzle over the top.
Brief Introduction
These salmon meatballs are a fun, healthy alternative to beef or chicken meatballs. Baking keeps them light and juicy, while the avocado sauce adds a creamy, tangy punch that pairs beautifully with the salmon. Perfect for a family dinner, appetizer platter, or even meal-prep lunches.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 β Prep the Salmon
Finely chop salmon or pulse in a food processor for easy mixing.
Step 2 β Form Meatballs
Mix with breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, and spices, then roll into even balls.
Step 3 β Bake to Perfection
Brushing with olive oil helps create a golden crust without frying.
Step 4 β Blend Sauce
Creamy avocado, garlic, and lemon give the perfect tangy contrast.
Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips
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Salmon: Use fresh fillet for best texture; canned salmon works in a pinch (drained).
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Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra lightness or almond flour for keto/gluten-free.
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Parsley: Swap with dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
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Avocado Sauce: Greek yogurt instead of sour cream makes it tangier and higher in protein.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
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Spicy Version: Add Β½ tsp chili flakes or cayenne to the meatball mix.
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Asian Twist: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the meatballs; swap lime juice for lemon in the sauce.
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Meal Ideas:
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Serve over zucchini noodles or rice.
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Make sliders with meatballs, lettuce, and avocado sauce in mini buns.
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Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks + dipping sauce.
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Storage & Make-Ahead Info
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Fridge: Store meatballs up to 3 days in airtight container. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
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Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs (without sauce) up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
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Make-Ahead: Sauce can be made 1 day in advance, but store with plastic wrap pressed against the surface to prevent browning.
Nutrition (per serving, 4 meatballs + sauce, approx.)
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Calories: 260 kcal
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Protein: 22 g
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Fat: 16 g
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Carbohydrates: 6 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Allergens: Fish, Eggs, Dairy (swap yogurt for DF option)
FAQs
Q: Can I pan-fry instead of baking?
A: Yes β cook in olive oil over medium heat, ~3 minutes per side, until cooked through.
Q: Can I make these without breadcrumbs?
A: Yes β almond flour or ground oats both work as binders.
Q: How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?
A: Make sure salmon is finely chopped and mixture is chilled for 10 minutes before rolling.
Personal Note
These baked salmon meatballs are a favorite in my kitchen when I want something light but still full of flavor. The creamy avocado sauce takes them over the top β itβs so good I sometimes use it as a dip for veggies or chips!
Call to Action
If you try these Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce π₯π, let me know how you served them! β Did you keep them as an appetizer, make them into a main dish, or add a spicy twist? Share your version and inspire others!
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