Here’s a light, flavorful, and nutritious recipe for Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce — tender salmon blended with herbs, lemon, and breadcrumbs, baked to perfection, and paired with a smooth, tangy avocado sauce. It’s the perfect combination of healthy and indulgent — great for meal prep, appetizers, or a main dish!
🧆 Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce
🍽️ Servings
Makes 16–18 meatballs (4–6 servings)
⏱️ Total Time
35–40 minutes (15 min prep + 20–25 min bake)
🧂 Ingredients
🐟 For the Salmon Meatballs:
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1 lb (450 g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
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1 egg
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⅓ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
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2 tbsp mayonnaise (helps keep them moist)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
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1 tbsp fresh dill (optional but delicious)
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp lemon zest
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing before baking)
🥑 For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
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1 ripe avocado
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½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
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1 small garlic clove, minced
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1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2–3 tbsp water or milk, to thin (as needed)
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
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Chop the salmon into chunks and place in a food processor.
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Pulse a few times until finely minced (don’t overblend — you want some texture).
Step 3: Make the Meatball Mixture
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In a large bowl, combine the minced salmon, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
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Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.
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If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Shape the Meatballs
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Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls (you’ll get about 16–18).
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Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
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Brush or spray lightly with olive oil.
Step 5: Bake
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Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp should be 145°F / 63°C).
Step 6: Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce
While the meatballs bake:
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Add avocado, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to a blender or food processor.
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Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Add salt, pepper, and a few tablespoons of water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
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Serve the baked salmon meatballs warm, drizzled or dipped in the avocado sauce.
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Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra brightness.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
These salmon meatballs are versatile! Serve them with:
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Quinoa, rice, or couscous
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Zoodles or pasta
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On a salad for a low-carb option
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In wraps or pita bread with fresh veggies and sauce
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As appetizers with toothpicks and avocado dip on the side
💡 Tips & Variations
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Canned salmon: You can use high-quality canned salmon (drained well) in place of fresh — about 2 (6 oz) cans.
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Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne, chili flakes, or a spoon of sriracha to the mixture.
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Air fryer method: Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
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High in protein and omega-3s
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Fresh, zesty, and creamy — but still healthy
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Easy to make and bake (no frying!)
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Perfect for meal prep or party appetizers