Salmon Burgers Give the grill master in the family a new taste to flip for — the easiest and best salmon burger recipe in town. Share Salmon burgers are an easy, high-protein, and heart-healthy alternative to traditional beef patties, typically made from wild-caught salmon, binders, and savory seasonings. Salmon burgers are nutrient-dense seafood patties created by mixing fresh or canned salmon with binding agents like eggs and breadcrumbs, which are then seasoned and grilled or pan-seared. They provide a low-saturated-fat, high-protein meal rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making them an excellent alternative to red meat. Prep Time 20 minutes Cook Time 10 minutes Total Time 30 minutes Servings 4 servings Key Takeaways High-Protein Profile: Each serving delivers 22 grams of clean protein, supporting lean muscle synthesis and long-term satiety. Rich in Omega-3s: Wild-caught salmon contains high concentrations of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which promote cardiovascular health. Rapid Preparation: Utilizing pre-cooked, shelf-stable canned salmon reduces overall preparation and cook time to just 30 minutes. Structural Integrity: Maintaining a precise ratio of one egg and a half-cup of breadcrumbs per 10 ounces of salmon ensures patties do not break during cooking. Table of Contents Health Benefits Recipe Ingredients Ingredient Notes Step-by-Step Instructions Recipe Tips & Variations Frequently Asked Questions Nutrition Facts Recipe Reviews What are the key nutritional benefits of salmon burgers? Salmon burgers offer a superior cardiovascular profile compared to beef burgers, delivering high-quality protein alongside essential omega-3 fatty acids that lower inflammation. According to data from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, regular consumption of fatty fish like salmon significantly decreases the risk of stroke and cardiac mortality. Additionally, using canned salmon preserves vital micronutrients. When wild-caught salmon is processed with softened, edible bones intact, it provides a highly bioavailable source of calcium and Vitamin D, which are critical for skeletal health and immune function as monitored by the FDA. The table below provides a structural framework evaluating different burger matrices based on USDA FoodData Central parameters: Burger Type Protein per Serving Primary Fat Type Prep Time Shelf Life / Convenience Best For Canned Salmon Burger 22g–26g Omega-3 Polyunsaturated 20–30 mins High (Shelf-stable, ready-to-use) Quick, budget-friendly, high-calcium meal prep Fresh Salmon Burger 20g–25g Omega-3 Polyunsaturated 45–60 mins Low (Requires immediate cooking) Gourmet weekend dining with fresh fillets Traditional Beef Burger 19g–23g Saturated Fat 15–20 mins Medium (Requires refrigeration) Classic comfort food, high-iron diets What ingredients are required for this salmon burger recipe? This premium salmon burger recipe requires 10 ounces of drained salmon, an egg binder, panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped onions, lemon juice, olive oil, and thick barbecue sauce. These components create an optimal balance of structural binding, moisture retention, and deep, smoky flavor. 2 (5 oz) cans salmon, drained 1 egg, slightly beaten 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 1/4 cup thick barbecue sauce 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 4 slices cheese, if desired 4 hamburger or brioche buns or rolls How should you select and substitute ingredients for salmon patties? You can easily customize this recipe by altering the base salmon format, the structural binding agents, or the secondary flavor elements to meet your personal dietary preferences. Ensuring the total volume of fish matches approximately 10 ounces maintains the required ratio for proper patty formation. What are the best options for the salmon base? Feel free to use either fresh salmon fillets or any wild-caught salmon in convenient, fully cooked packets or cans, as long as it adds up to about 10 oz total. Pre-seasoned shelf-stable packets can also give your burgers an exciting flavor spin: substitute in Maple Smokehouse Smoked Salmon for extra-savory depth, or experiment with Lemon Pepper Salmon for a bright, zingy kick. What are the primary structural binders and substitutions? An egg is the critical binding agent that keeps your patties from falling apart during high-heat cooking. If you have an allergy or dietary restriction, you can use a liquid egg substitute if needed, or successfully replace your egg with a flaxseed meal slurry (one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water). How can you vary the texture and breadcrumbs? Any type of crushed breadcrumb will work effectively to absorb internal moisture and stabilize the patty matrix. Panko crumbs give your salmon burgers an extra-light, airy texture, while pre-flavored Italian breadcrumbs can provide a great savory addition. If you have stale bread on hand, simply pulse it in a food processor until you have fine crumbs. What choices do you have for onions and garlic additions? While classic white or yellow onions provide an excellent sweet and sharp flavor base, red or green onions work just as well and taste just as good. For an added layer of robust, savory depth, incorporating a small amount of garlic powder or crushed fresh garlic is always an excellent choice. Which barbecue sauces work best? The sauce selection dictates the overall flavor profile of your burger, allowing you to easily customize the final outcome to your taste. You can utilize a tangy, vinegar- and mustard-based Carolina style barbecue sauce, or opt for a thick, rich, molasses-heavy Texas style sauce depending on your preference. What are the top cheese pairings for fish patties? Cheese is entirely optional, but adding a slice provides a rich, melty contrast against the crispy golden exterior of the salmon patty. Try a sharp cheddar, easygoing Monterey jack cheese, classic American, havarti infused with dill, or even a nutty, smoked gouda. What are the step-by-step instructions for cooking salmon burgers? Preparing salmon burgers involves draining the canned seafood, combining it uniformly with your binders and seasonings, shaping the mixture into four equal patties, and grilling them over medium-high heat. Cooking requires precisely 4 minutes per side to achieve a crispy brown exterior while maintaining a moist, tender interior. 1. Prepare the Salmon Base: Drain canned salmon thoroughly, squeezing out excess moisture to ensure the patties hold together. In a large bowl, flake the salmon with a fork, then add the egg, onion, barbecue sauce, lemon juice, and breadcrumbs, mixing until well combined. 2. Shape the Patties: Divide and form the seasoned salmon mixture into 4 uniform salmon patties, pressing them firmly to compact the structure. 3. Apply Heat: Place the patties directly onto a spray-coated, preheated outdoor grill or a broiler pan oiled with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Grill the patties over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned, turning them gently with a wide spatula. If you do not have an outdoor grill, a high-quality nonstick skillet over your stovetop will do just fine. 4. Assemble and Serve: Add cheese slices during the final minute of cooking to allow them to melt, if desired. Serve the hot patties immediately on premium buns or rolls with your choice of fresh accents. What are the best culinary tips and recipe variations for salmon patties? You can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of salmon burgers by introducing fresh botanical herbs, swapping buns for leafy greens, or applying a finishing splash of acid. These adjustments allow you to pivot between a classic comfort meal and a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative. Swap in a Slaw: Salmon burgers work beautifully with a tangy, creamy cabbage slaw. Add a heaping spoonful directly atop your hot patties inside the bun to introduce a refreshing crunch. Up the Herbs and Spices: Fresh chives, cilantro, basil, fresh dill, and cracked black pepper all pair beautifully with seafood. Mix these chopped herbs into the bowl right before you form your patties, or blend in 1–2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard for an extra flavor kick. Think Beyond the Bun: For an ultra-low-carb or gluten-free meal, place your cooked burgers directly atop a bed of mixed lettuce greens or crisp slaw. The warm, smoky salmon patties add excellent contrast, texture, and depth to a fresh salad. Don’t Forget the Magic of Citrus: Seafood and citrus possess an established culinary synergy. Add a final spritz of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the fatty notes of the fish, or give it a tart, tropical spin with a squeeze of fresh lime. Where to Buy This salmon burger recipe uses canned salmon. Use our product locator to find Chicken of the Sea canned salmon online or in a store near you. Products Buy Now Buy Now Buy Now Frequently Asked Questions What toppings go on salmon burgers? Classic burger additions like melted cheese, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato, and red onion match perfectly, though you can elevate the dish with specialized toppings. Try adding coleslaw for a creamy crunch, fresh cucumber slices and baby arugula for a peppery bite reminiscent of bagels and lox, or sliced avocado and fresh cilantro for a southwestern flair. How do you keep salmon patties from falling apart when cooking? To prevent salmon patties from breaking apart, you must thoroughly drain all excess moisture from the fish and utilize structured binding agents like eggs and panko breadcrumbs. For maximum security, shape the patties tightly and chill them in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes before cooking, then handle them gently and cook over medium-high heat to sear the exterior immediately. Can I substitute another fish for salmon? Yes, you can seamlessly substitute other high-quality shelf-stable seafood into this exact recipe template without losing structural integrity. Mild albacore tuna serves as an exceptional alternative, and we highly recommend the savory, robust richness of mackerel for a deep flavor profile. What’s the best substitute for egg in salmon burgers? The most reliable substitutes for binding fish cakes without whole eggs are commercial liquid egg substitutes or a homemade flaxseed meal mixture. To mimic one egg, whisk one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it rest for five minutes until it forms a thick gel before adding it to your mixture. Nutrition Facts One standard 170-gram serving of this barbecue salmon burger provides 420 calories, 22 grams of protein, and meets 25% of your recommended daily value for both Vitamin D and Calcium. These values make it an exceptionally balanced option for individuals monitoring their macronutrients or pursuing heart-healthy diets. Serving Size: 170g | Calories: 420 | Total Fat: 18g (23% DV) | Saturated Fat: 7g (35% DV) | Trans Fat: 0g |Cholesterol: 100mg (33% DV) | Sodium: 810mg (35% DV) | Total Carbohydrate: 41g (15% DV) | Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% DV) | Total Sugar: 1g, Includes 11g Added Sugar (0% DV) | Protein: 22g | Vitamin D: 4.5mcg (25% DV) | Calcium: 320mg (25% DV) | Iron: 2.8mg (15% DV) | Potassium: 280mg (6% DV) Sources United States Department of Agriculture (USDA): FoodData Central historical tracking for wild-caught salmon macronutrient profiles. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health: Clinical guidelines regarding omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) and cardiovascular disease prevention. Mayo Clinic: Nutritional research on fish consumption and its regulatory effects on blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Recipe Reviews Salmon Burgers Schema Deployment Document