Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce

These tender, protein-packed salmon meatballs are baked to perfection and paired with a creamy avocado sauce bursting with zesty lime and a hint of smoky chipotle. Made with whole ingredients and minimal oil, they’re a wholesome, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High-protein & nutrient-rich: Salmon, avocado, and Greek yogurt deliver healthy fats and lean protein.
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved: A satisfying and mild flavor profile with a spicy option.
• No pan-frying needed: These meatballs are oven-baked for ease and less mess.
• Ready in under 30 minutes: Quick, easy, and fresh.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound skinless salmon, cut into chunks
• ½ medium onion, grated
• ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons whole wheat panko breadcrumbs (see note)
• 3 tablespoons minced cilantro
• 1 egg white
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground oregano

The Sauce:

• ¾ California avocado, skin and seed removed
• 3 tablespoons fat-free plain Greek yogurt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ lime, juiced
• 5 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons minced cilantro
• ¼ – ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (see note)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Directions

Make the Meatballs:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Lightly coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Place the salmon chunks into a food processor.
   • Pulse several times until the salmon is finely chopped but not pureed. Scrape down the sides as needed.
   • If you don’t have a food processor, finely chop the salmon with a sharp knife.
3. Combine Meatball Ingredients:
   • Transfer the chopped salmon into a large mixing bowl.
   • Add the grated onion, panko breadcrumbs, minced cilantro, egg white, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
   • Stir thoroughly to combine until the mixture holds together well.
4. Form the Meatballs:
   • Using about 2 tablespoons per meatball, shape the mixture into even balls by rolling it between your palms.
   • Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Meatballs:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the meatballs are firm to the touch and cooked through.
   • Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Make the Creamy Avocado Sauce:

6. Blend the Sauce:
   • In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lime juice, water, minced cilantro, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides if needed.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the sauce and adjust salt or chipotle powder to your preferred heat level.
8. Serve:
   • Serve the baked salmon meatballs warm, with a generous drizzle or dollop of the creamy avocado sauce on top or on the side.

Pro Tips and Variations

• No food processor? Finely mince the salmon and mash the avocado by hand.
• Adjust spice: Use adobo sauce from canned chipotles as a substitute for chipotle powder.
• Make it a meal: Serve over rice, quinoa, or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
• Double the batch: These freeze well both raw and cooked.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with rice or couscous and a fresh cucumber salad.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or stuffed in pita with greens for a handheld option.
• Great for meal prep – keeps well in the fridge.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
• Reheat meatballs in the oven at 300°F or gently on the stovetop. Avoid microwaving the sauce—best served fresh.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon?
Fresh salmon is preferred for texture, but drained canned salmon can work in a pinch.

Is this recipe spicy?
The chipotle adds a mild smoky heat. Adjust the amount to your preference.

Can I pan-fry these instead?
Yes, cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat, turning to brown all sides.

Conclusion

These baked salmon meatballs are a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy seafood with a fun twist. Paired with a creamy avocado sauce, they strike the perfect balance of healthy, satisfying, and delicious—ideal for both casual meals and entertaining.

Print