Name: Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound skinless salmon (cut into chunks); ½ medium onion (grated); ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons whole wheat panko breadcrumbs; 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; ¾ California avocado (skin & 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; ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 11 reviews

If you’re looking to impress yourself and your loved ones with a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing, you’re going to adore this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe. These tender, flavorful meatballs bring out the delicate sweetness of fresh salmon, perfectly seasoned with a fragrant blend of herbs and spices. Paired with a luscious, smooth avocado sauce that’s tangy, creamy, and just a hint smoky, this recipe turns a simple dinner into a celebration of textures and tastes. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or hosting friends, these baked salmon meatballs promise to be a shining star on your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two close-up views of a food processor placed on a white marbled surface. On the left side, the food processor bowl is filled with chunks of raw orange-colored fish with white streaks and some darker skin pieces near the top center. On the right side, the same bowl contains finely processed fish that has a soft, minced texture and bright orange color filling the bowl around the central white blade. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in layering flavor, offering texture, and brightening up the dish visually. From the delicate salmon to the fresh herbs, every element has been chosen to create a balanced, mouthwatering experience that feels fresh and satisfying.

1 pound skinless salmon (cut into chunks): The main star, providing rich flavor and a tender base for the meatballs.
½ medium onion (grated): Adds a subtle sweetness and moisture to keep the meatballs juicy.
¼ cup + 2 tablespoons whole wheat panko breadcrumbs: These keep the meatballs light yet firm, with a satisfying texture.
3 tablespoons minced cilantro: Brings fresh herbal brightness that complements the salmon beautifully.
1 egg white: A lean binder that helps the meatballs hold their shape without heaviness.
2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds a fragrant punch that enhances the savoriness of the salmon.
¾ teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors, balancing the overall taste.
½ teaspoon ground pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
½ teaspoon paprika: Provides a mild smoky touch that deepens the flavor complexity.
½ teaspoon ground oregano: Offers an earthy, aromatic note that rounds out the seasoning.
¾ California avocado (skin & seed removed): For the sauce, delivering creaminess and a mild, nutty flavor.
3 tablespoons fat-free plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang to the avocado sauce.
1 clove garlic (minced): Incorporated into the sauce for another layer of savory depth.
½ lime (juiced): Brings a fresh, zesty brightness that keeps the sauce lively.
5 tablespoons water: Helps achieve the perfect creamy but pourable consistency.
2 tablespoons minced cilantro: Boosts the freshness factor in the sauce.
¼ – ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder: Adjustable spice that adds smoky warmth to the sauce.
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential seasoning to balance the sauce flavors.
¼ teaspoon ground pepper: Adds subtle heat to complement the chipotle.

How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray. This simple step ensures your meatballs will bake evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Chop the Salmon

Place the salmon chunks into the bowl of a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. This helps achieve a perfect texture that is easy to shape into meatballs and cooks uniformly, delivering a tender bite every time. Make sure to scrape down the sides as necessary to get everything evenly processed.

Step 3: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

Transfer the finely chopped salmon to a large bowl and add the grated onion, whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, minced cilantro, egg white, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to combine. This mix is where all the beautiful flavors start to marry and the texture begins to come together.

Step 4: Shape the Meatballs

Using about a 2-tablespoon portion of the mixture, roll between your palms to form meatballs. Placing them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet allows heat to circulate freely, helping each meatball cook perfectly through and develop a light crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tray into the oven and bake the meatballs for 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when they feel firm to the touch and are thoroughly cooked inside. The baking locks in moisture while giving the exterior a delightful slight browning that adds flavor and texture.

Step 6: Whip Up the Creamy Avocado Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce by combining the avocado, Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lime juice, water, cilantro, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper in a food processor or blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. This sauce is where the dish really shines—the avocado brings richness and the chipotle gives a smoky little kick that works beautifully with the fish.

How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

The image shows a white plate with 20 small, round, orange-brown baked balls arranged in neat rows. Each ball is topped with a smooth, light green sauce drizzled across them. There are small green herb pieces scattered over the balls and plate, adding a fresh touch. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting is bright, highlighting the textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate these salmon meatballs even further, sprinkle a few whole cilantro leaves or finely chopped green onions on top right before serving. A light dusting of extra chipotle chili powder or a thin wedge of lime adds a refreshing pop and makes every bite feel fresh and flavorful.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs gorgeously with simple, wholesome sides that won’t overpower the salmon. Think a crisp mixed green salad, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a bowl of fluffy quinoa. These options add texture and nutrients without competing with the bold avocado sauce and tender meatballs.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these baked salmon meatballs as elegant appetizers by placing one or two on small spoons with a dollop of avocado sauce beneath, perfect for guests to savor in a single bite. Another fun idea is to pile them atop lightly toasted whole grain bread or flatbread for a fresh, casual dinner or party platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare because these are so delicious), store the baked salmon meatballs and creamy avocado sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the meatballs from absorbing moisture and the sauce retaining its fresh flavor for up to 3 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to 1 month. However, the avocado sauce is best fresh, so prepare or freeze it separately only if you plan to use it quickly after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat leftover meatballs gently in a warm oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to avoid drying out. If the sauce has separated in the fridge, a quick whisk or blending will bring it back to creamy perfection before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works fine but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before chopping. This prevents extra moisture from making the meatballs too wet or fall apart.

Is it okay to bake the meatballs instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option that still yields tender, delicious meatballs without the extra oil. Plus, it frees up stovetop space and keeps your kitchen cooler.

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don’t have panko, finely crushed whole wheat crackers or plain breadcrumbs can work. Just keep in mind that texture might be slightly different—panko helps keep things light and airy.

How spicy is the avocado sauce?

The chipotle chili powder adds a gentle smoky heat, but you can easily adjust the amount to your preference or omit it if you prefer a milder sauce.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger group?

Yes, scaling up is simple. Just double the ingredients and bake meatballs in batches, making sure to space them evenly on your baking sheets for consistent cooking.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe will truly brighten up your cooking routine with fresh flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy salmon in a new, exciting form that feels both comforting and elegant. Once you taste that creamy avocado drizzle paired with the tender, perfectly spiced meatballs, you’ll be hooked. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this fantastic dish—you won’t regret it!