Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce Recipe

If you are looking for a dish that’s both delightful and nutritious, nothing beats Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce. These tender, flavorful meatballs are perfectly paired with a creamy and tangy avocado sauce that adds a fresh burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe brings together the wholesome goodness of salmon and the richness of avocado in a surprisingly simple way, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from building the perfect texture of the salmon meatballs to creating the luscious, smooth avocado sauce that complements them so beautifully. These simple staples come together to make a dish that’s far more impressive than it sounds.

• Salmon fillet, 1 lb: Fresh and skinless, finely chopped for a tender meatball base with rich flavor.
• Breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup: Bind the meatballs and add a pleasing texture without overpowering the salmon.
• Egg, 1 (lightly beaten): Acts as a natural adhesive, holding your meatballs together perfectly.
• Fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons chopped: Adds an herbaceous brightness and color contrast.
• Garlic powder, 1 teaspoon: Infuses subtle warmth without the sharpness of fresh garlic.
• Paprika, 1/2 teaspoon: Brings a gentle smoky undertone and a hint of color.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance every other ingredient.
• Olive oil, 1 tablespoon (for baking): Keeps the meatballs moist and adds a velvety finish.
• Ripe avocado, 1: The star of the sauce, lending incredible creaminess and mild flavor.
• Sour cream, 1/4 cup: Provides tang and balances the avocado’s richness beautifully.
• Lemon juice, 1 tablespoon: Adds a bright citrus note that lifts the whole sauce.
• Garlic clove, 1 minced: Gives a fresh, pungent kick in the sauce.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Perfectly seasons the avocado sauce for that harmonious finish.

How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

Step 1: Prep Oven

Start by setting your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking sheet with a light coating of olive oil or nonstick spray. This step ensures that your salmon meatballs will bake evenly and won’t stick, helping you get that perfect golden exterior.

Step 2: Mix Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine your finely chopped salmon fillet with the breadcrumbs, beaten egg, fresh parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly is important — it helps develop a uniform texture and infuses the seasoning throughout each meatball. The mixture should hold together easily without being too wet or crumbly.

Step 3: Form & Bake

Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the salmon mixture into small, uniform meatballs approximately the size of a tablespoon. Place them spaced evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil to promote browning and keep them juicy. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the meatballs feel firm to the touch and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This guarantees they are cooked safely while still maintaining moisture.

Step 4: Make Sauce

While the meatballs bake, it’s the perfect time to whip up the creamy avocado sauce. Blend together the ripe avocado, sour cream, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until you achieve a silky smooth texture. This sauce is mildly tangy, rich, and incredibly refreshing — the ultimate complement to your Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce.

How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce

Garnishes

One of the easiest ways to boost both presentation and flavor is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives over the top, adding a bright pop of color and an herbaceous note. A wedge of lemon on the side invites extra zest and brightness for those who love an extra citrus kick.

Side Dishes

These salmon meatballs work beautifully alongside a crisp green salad, herbed quinoa, or roasted vegetables. The creamy avocado sauce naturally fits with light, fresh sides that won’t compete with the meatballs but rather highlight their succulent flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these meatballs as appetizers on skewers with a small dollop of avocado sauce on each, or layer them over a bed of zoodles for a low-carb option. You could even nestle them inside lettuce wraps for a fun, hand-held meal that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the avocado sauce separate to maintain its fresh texture and vibrant color.

Freezing

Salmon meatballs freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat before serving and pair with freshly made avocado sauce for best results.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving the avocado sauce; instead, stir it well and serve chilled or at room temperature to keep its creamy integrity.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh salmon for the meatballs?

Canned salmon can be used in a pinch, but fresh salmon offers a better texture and flavor for these meatballs. If you do use canned, drain it well and be sure to adjust breadcrumb amounts as the texture will be wetter.

Is it possible to bake these meatballs without olive oil?

You can skip the olive oil drizzle, but the oil helps keep the meatballs moist and adds a subtle richness. If avoiding oil, consider using a nonstick baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How spicy is the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce?

This recipe is mild and approachable, with no spicy heat included. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of kick.

Can the avocado sauce be made dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream to keep it creamy and tangy but suitable for dairy-free diets.

What other herbs can I add to the meatball mixture?

Fresh dill, chives, or cilantro are excellent alternatives or additions to parsley, each bringing their own unique freshness that pairs wonderfully with salmon.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making these Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce enough. They are simple to prepare, packed with nutrients, and absolutely bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, they deserve a spot on your recipe rotation. Give them a try and watch your taste buds fall in love!

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