If you are craving a fresh, vibrant twist on classic burgers, this Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe is an absolute game changer. Combining delicate, flaky salmon patties loaded with fresh herbs and a luscious, creamy avocado ranch sauce, it’s a flavor-packed dish that elevates any mealtime. From the first bite, you’ll appreciate how the tangy lemon and garlic blend perfectly with the smooth avocado dressing, creating a harmony of textures and tastes that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these salmon burgers will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is the secret to nailing this Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe. Every single item plays a vital role, from the fresh herbs that brighten the salmon to the spices that deepen its flavor and the creamy avocado that takes the ranch dressing to another level. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:
- Salmon (1 ¼ lb., skin removed): The star of the dish, fresh or thawed wild salmon provides that rich, flaky texture.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup plus ¼ cup): Adds creaminess and moisture to both the patties and the dressing.
- Mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives a subtle tang that brightens the salmon mixture.
- Lemon juice (2 tablespoons total): Freshly squeezed to add zing and lift the flavors everywhere.
- Garlic (2 cloves, crushed): Offers a bold aroma and depth to the patties.
- Salt (1 teaspoon plus ½ teaspoon for dressing): Essential for enhancing all the lovely flavors inherent in the ingredients.
- Black pepper (¼ teaspoon plus extra for dressing): Adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering.
- Panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup, gluten-free optional): Give the patties structure and a gentle crunch.
- Fresh chives (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Bring a mild onion flavor and bursts of color.
- Fresh dill (1 tablespoon chopped plus 2 teaspoons for dressing): Vital for that herbaceous, slightly citrusy fragrance.
- Oil (2 tablespoons, avocado or olive): Needed to cook the patties to golden perfection.
- Avocado (1 large, pitted and peeled): Creates that silky, green base for the luscious ranch dressing.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Adds a tangy creaminess that complements the avocado beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (2 teaspoons, finely chopped): Provides fresh, bright notes in the dressing.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Enhances the umami components subtly.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Rounds out the dressing with more garlic goodness.
- Milk (½ cup, plus more if needed): Adjusts the dressing to a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Hamburger buns: Perfect for serving, but optional if you prefer a bunless burger on greens.
- Arugula and tomatoes (optional): Add fresh crunch and vibrant color to your meal.
How to Make Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe
Step 1: Process the Salmon
Begin by finely chopping the salmon into tiny â…›-inch pieces. You can do this with a sharp knife for that rustic texture or use a food processor for a finer mince. If using a food processor, cut the salmon into 1-inch chunks and pulse half of them 15-20 times, then add the rest and pulse another 10-15 times. This method ensures your salmon holds together beautifully without turning into a paste.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This flavorful mixture is the glue that brings all the salmon ingredients together. Next, combine the chopped salmon with the mayonnaise mixture, fresh chives, dill, and panko breadcrumbs in a large bowl. Mix gently by hand until all components are well incorporated but be careful not to overmix, or your patties might become too dense.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 4 inches wide and 1 inch thick. Using a round biscuit cutter can help achieve perfect uniformity, but your hands will do just fine. Chill the patties in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up, which makes cooking easier and prevents them from falling apart.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of avocado or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the salmon patties in the pan, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 140°F. If you prefer other cooking methods, these patties also do well in an air fryer or baked in the oven—just adjust the timing accordingly.
Step 5: Prepare the Avocado Ranch Dressing
Place the avocado, sour cream, and lemon juice in a food processor and blend for 30 to 60 seconds until smooth. To this creamy base, add mayonnaise, fresh dill and parsley, onion and garlic powders, salt, black pepper, and milk. Pulse until everything is just combined, creating a luscious, herb-packed ranch sauce with a delightful green hue and fresh flavor. If the dressing feels too thick, add a splash more milk until you get the perfect consistency for spreading or drizzling.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Serve each salmon burger hot, nestled in a lightly toasted hamburger bun or atop a bed of peppery arugula for a lighter option. Generously spread the vibrant avocado ranch dressing on the bun or spoon it over the patty, then add fresh tomato slices if you like. The combination of smoky salmon, creamy ranch, and fresh accompaniments is utterly irresistible.
How to Serve Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley sprinkled on top add a burst of bright flavor and make your presentation pop. Thin slices of ripe tomato and a handful of peppery arugula bring color and freshness that perfectly offset the richness of the salmon and avocado ranch.
Side Dishes
Crisp sweet potato fries, a tangy coleslaw, or a fresh cucumber salad make excellent sides for this recipe. They lend texture and complement the clean flavors of the salmon burgers by offering a balance between hearty and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the salmon patties as lettuce wraps with avocado ranch drizzled on top or make mini sliders perfect for gatherings. Another idea is to place the patties over a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies for a nutritious meal packed with texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cooked salmon burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the avocado ranch dressing separate in a small jar to maintain its fresh vibrant flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked salmon patties for up to one month. Simply form the patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw completely before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor. Avoid freezing the avocado ranch as it may separate upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat salmon burgers gently in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. To maintain moisture, avoid microwave reheating if possible. Reapply fresh avocado ranch dressing after warming for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?
Fresh salmon works best for texture and flavor, but if you are in a pinch, canned salmon (drained and flaked) can be used. Adjust the amount of breadcrumbs slightly as canned salmon tends to be more moist.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, the Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe can be fully gluten-free and safe for those with sensitivities.
Can I make the avocado ranch dressing without a food processor?
Definitely! Mash the avocado well with a fork, then whisk in the remaining ingredients until smooth. It won’t be quite as silky but will retain wonderful flavor.
How do I know when the salmon burgers are cooked?
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 140°F and the exterior is golden brown. The patties should be firm to the touch but still moist inside.
Can I substitute other herbs in the recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh tarragon, cilantro, or basil could add interesting new flavor profiles, but dill and parsley do give the traditional bright herby notes that work so well here.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe that makes it a standout meal to share with loved ones. It’s fresh, flavorful, and satisfying while still feeling light and gourmet. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, these salmon burgers deliver every time. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—your taste buds will thank you for the treat!
Print
Salmon Burgers with Avocado Ranch Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These flavorful Salmon Burgers with creamy Avocado Ranch are a healthy and delicious twist on the classic burger. Made with fresh salmon, herbs, and a light mixture of mayonnaise and mustard, these patties are pan-seared to perfection and topped with a smooth avocado-based ranch dressing. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, served on a bun or over fresh greens.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Burgers
- 1 ¼ lb. salmon (skin removed)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons oil (avocado or olive oil)
For the Avocado Ranch Dressing
- 1 large avocado (pitted, peeled, and quartered)
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons dill (fresh or ¾ tsp. dried)
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup milk (plus more if needed)
For Serving
- Hamburger buns
- Arugula (optional)
- Tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Process the Salmon: Finely chop the salmon filet into approximately â…›-inch pieces using a knife or pulse in a food processor. If using a processor, cut into 1-inch chunks and pulse half 15-20 times, then add the rest and pulse 10-15 more until finely diced but not pureed.
- Season the Salmon Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, crushed garlic, salt, and black pepper. In a large bowl, combine the chopped salmon, mayonnaise mixture, chopped chives, dill, and Panko breadcrumbs. Mix gently with your hands until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a patty about 1-inch thick and 4-inches wide, either by hand or using a round biscuit cutter. Refrigerate the patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them set.
- Cook the Patties: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon patties in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F and the outside is golden and crisp.
- Prepare the Avocado Ranch Dressing: In a food processor, blend avocado, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth, about 30-60 seconds. Add mayonnaise, fresh or dried dill, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and milk. Pulse until combined and creamy; add more milk if needed for desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the salmon burgers on hamburger buns or a bed of arugula, topped with the creamy avocado ranch dressing and optional tomato slices. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful meal!
Notes
- You can cook the salmon patties in an air fryer at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
- Ensure the internal temperature of salmon reaches 140°F for safe consumption.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs as specified.
- The avocado ranch dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If the mixture feels too wet to form patties, add a little more Panko breadcrumbs.
