Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce 🐟🥑
Looking for a lighter twist on meatballs? These Baked Salmon Meatballs are flavorful, high in protein, and paired with a tangy, creamy avocado sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Baked—not fried—for a wholesome take, these meatballs are moist, garlicky, and zippy with lemon and herbs.
Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe is a flavorful, fresh way to enjoy omega-3-rich salmon.
🌟 Why I Love This Recipe
These meatballs are:
- Baked, not fried—light and healthy
- Packed with lean protein and brain-boosting fats
- Paired with a vibrant avocado sauce that’s creamy without being heavy
- Versatile for bowls, salads, wraps, or snacks
It’s comfort food without the guilt—and a recipe that’s as pretty as it is practical.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Salmon Meatballs:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil, for brushing
For the Creamy Avocado Sauce:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
⏱️ Total Time: ~30 minutes
🍽️ Yield: 12–15 meatballs
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it.
2. Mix the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Finely chopped salmon
- Breadcrumbs
- Beaten egg
- Parsley
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it.
3. Form & Bake
Shape into 1½-inch balls (about 12–15 total) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush lightly with olive oil.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly golden.
4. Make the Avocado Sauce
In a blender or food processor, combine:
- Avocado
- Sour cream
- Lemon juice
- Minced garlic
- Salt and pepper
Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
If too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice.
5. Serve
Plate the warm salmon meatballs with a side of avocado sauce or drizzle it over the top.
Garnish with extra chopped parsley, lemon zest, or chili flakes for heat.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use canned salmon (drained) in a pinch, though fresh is best.
- Add dill or chives to the sauce for extra herby flavor.
- Swap panko for traditional breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for a little kick.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
Serve these baked salmon meatballs:
- Over rice or quinoa with roasted veggies
- In a wrap or pita with greens and cucumber
- As part of a low-carb bowl with cauliflower rice and greens
- Alongside Blueberry Lemonade or Strawberry Mojito for a light lunch
🧊 Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerate meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 4 days
- Freeze baked meatballs (without sauce) for up to 2 months
- Reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or until warmed through
🐟 More Seafood & Light Meals
🥄 Final Thoughts
These Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce are the kind of meal that feels special but takes minimal effort. Fresh, flavorful, and loaded with nutrition, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests with something a little different.
Tried them? Tag @chefmaniac on Instagram—we’d love to see your healthy bites! And don’t forget to subscribe for more wholesome, flavor-packed meals that keep things fun in the kitchen.
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