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

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bright flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a touch of creamy indulgence, this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. These tender, perfectly seasoned salmon meatballs are baked to juicy perfection and paired with a refreshingly silky avocado sauce infused with zingy lime and a hint of smoky chipotle. It’s a harmonious blend of healthy and delicious that feels both comforting and fresh, making it a standout meal for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two close-up views side by side of a transparent food processor on a white marbled surface. On the left, the food processor bowl is filled with uneven pieces of bright orange and pale pink raw salmon, with white layers and skin patches visible. On the right, the salmon is finely chopped into a uniform, soft-textured pinkish-orange mixture, showing small bits and even blending around the central white blade. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to crafting your perfect salmon meatballs. Each one plays a vital role — from the fresh salmon providing rich protein and moist texture, to the cilantro and spices layering in vibrant flavors and a subtle kick, all balanced beautifully by the creamy avocado sauce. Let’s dive into this lineup of goodness.

Skinless salmon (1 pound): The star protein, ensuring juicy, tender meatballs packed with omega-3s and flavor.
Grated onion (½ medium): Adds gentle sweetness and moisture, helping keep those meatballs delightfully soft.
Whole wheat panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup + 2 tbsp): Provides just the right amount of binding and a light texture without heaviness.
Minced cilantro (3 tablespoons): Brings a fresh herbal note that brightens the entire dish.
Egg white (1): Acts as a natural binder to hold the meatballs together without extra fat.
Minced garlic (2 cloves for meatballs + 1 clove for sauce): Infuses pungent depth and warmth in both the meatballs and sauce.
Salt (¾ teaspoon for meatballs + ¼ teaspoon for sauce): Enhances every flavor, making each bite pop.
Ground pepper (½ teaspoon + ¼ teaspoon for sauce): Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Offers a subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
Ground oregano (½ teaspoon): Lends a hint of earthy herbaceousness to balance the salmon.
California avocado (¾ of one; skin and seed removed): The creamy base of the sauce, delivering richness and healthy fats.
Fat-free plain Greek yogurt (3 tablespoons): Keeps the avocado sauce light while adding tangy creaminess.
Lime juice (½ lime): Provides a zesty brightness that invigorates the sauce’s flavors.
Water (5 tablespoons): Adjusts the sauce’s consistency, keeping it light and smooth.
Minced cilantro (2 tablespoons for sauce): Continues the fresh, green vibe in the avocado sauce.
Chipotle chili powder (¼ to ½ teaspoon): Adds a smoky, mildly spicy undertone that pairs perfectly with creamy avocado.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Process the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and lightly coating a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the salmon chunks in a food processor and pulse gently until finely chopped. Don’t rush this part; you want a nice fine texture without turning it into a paste. Transfer the chopped salmon to a large mixing bowl, ready for seasoning.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

To the salmon, add the grated onion, the whole wheat panko breadcrumbs, minced cilantro, egg white, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Stir everything just until combined. This mixture will smell amazing and feel just right — moist enough to shape but firm enough to hold its form.

Step 3: Shape and Bake Your Meatballs

Using roughly two tablespoons of the salmon mixture per meatball, roll them gently between your palms to form even-sized balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. This will help them cook through evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they are firm to the touch and cooked through, with a beautiful, slightly golden exterior.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Avocado Sauce

While the meatballs bake, prepare your sauce. In your food processor or blender, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, garlic, fresh lime juice, water, minced cilantro, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until silky smooth and luscious. The sauce should be creamy and light, just the right complement to those savory salmon meatballs.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate your freshly baked salmon meatballs and drizzle or dollop them generously with that dreamy creamy avocado sauce. Take a moment to admire the vibrant colors and inhale the delightful aromas before you dive in!

How to Serve Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

The image shows a close-up of several small, round meatballs on a metal baking tray. Each meatball is orange-brown with small bits of green herbs mixed in, giving them a textured and slightly uneven surface. The meatballs are spaced apart in rows, and the shiny metal tray has a few slight scratches and marks visible. The background under the tray is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your presentation and add bursts of flavor. Try sprinkling chopped fresh cilantro or a little extra chipotle chili powder on top for that smoky pop. Thinly sliced radishes or a wedge of lime on the side not only enhance the look but add brightness with every bite.

Side Dishes

These salmon meatballs pair beautifully with light, fresh sides. Consider a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice to make it a complete meal. The creamy avocado sauce also works wonderfully as a dip alongside steamed asparagus or roasted sweet potatoes.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation of the Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe. Serve the meatballs nestled atop avocado toast for a brunch twist, or arrange them skewered with grilled veggies for a party appetizer. Using small ramekins for individual portions of avocado sauce can also be a charming touch for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply transfer the meatballs and sauce into separate airtight containers and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

Want to plan ahead? These meatballs freeze beautifully! Lay the formed, uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until firm, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, they last up to 2 months. You can thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen with a few extra minutes in the oven.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the meatballs in the oven at 300 degrees F until heated through, which helps maintain their texture. The avocado sauce is best served fresh but can be stirred and chilled again briefly if needed. Avoid microwaving the sauce as it may lose its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the salmon before processing to get the right texture and avoid excess moisture in your meatballs.

Is the creamy avocado sauce spicy?

The sauce has a mild smoky kick from the chipotle chili powder, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference, even omit it for a milder profile.

Can I substitute the whole wheat panko breadcrumbs?

Yes, regular panko or even crushed crackers can work in a pinch, but whole wheat panko adds a nice nuttier flavor and extra fiber.

Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They store well in the fridge and freeze beautifully, making them a convenient and nutritious option for your weekly meal prep plans.

What’s the best way to serve this if I’m entertaining guests?

Serve the meatballs on small plates or skewers with dollops of avocado sauce for a sophisticated appetizer, or pair with colorful sides for a vibrant, crowd-pleasing main.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe this Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe will become one of your go-to dishes. It’s easy to prepare, packed with incredible flavor, and strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, these meatballs are sure to delight every palate. Give it a try—you’ll love how effortlessly delicious it is!

Baked Salmon Meatballs with Creamy Avocado Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need