Salmon Burger Bowl: 1 Delicious Meal

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Salmon Burger Bowl has become my absolute go-to for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal, especially when I have leftover salmon patties! It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth. I remember the first time I tried making this, the aroma of the sizzling salmon and melting cheese filled my kitchen, making me instantly hungry. This deconstructed approach means no bun needed, making it a fantastic salmon patty bowl that’s both easy to eat and incredibly delicious. You get all the amazing flavors of a burger, but fork-friendly! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Salmon Burger Bowl

This salmon burger bowl is a weeknight game-changer! Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

Incredible Flavor: Crispy-edged salmon patties meet melty cheese and all your favorite burger toppings for a taste sensation.
Super Speedy Prep: With a total time of just 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver on busy nights.
Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and omega-3s from the salmon, it’s a nutritious meal.
Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples and canned salmon, making it an affordable option.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love the familiar flavors and fun deconstructed style.
Easy Salmon Burger Bowl: It’s so simple to assemble, making it perfect for anyone who wants a quick meal.
No Bun Required: Enjoy all the burger goodness without the carbs, making this an easy salmon burger bowl for any diet.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite burger fixings and sides.

Salmon Burger Bowl Ingredients

Gathering these salmon burger bowl ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create these flavorful salmon patties and build your bowls.

14-15 oz canned salmon, drained well – this is the star, make sure it’s well-drained for the best patty texture.
½ cup panko breadcrumbs – panko gives our salmon patties that perfect crispy edge.
2 eggs, beaten – these act as a binder to hold everything together.
1 tablespoon dehydrated onions – for a concentrated onion flavor without the extra moisture.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a depth of umami flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a lovely smoky note and color.
½ teaspoon kosher salt – to enhance all the flavors.
Black pepper, to taste – freshly ground is always best!
2 tablespoons neutral oil – like vegetable or canola, for searing the patties.
8 slices American cheese – for that irresistible gooey, melty topping.
12-14 oz bag coated potato wedges or fries – your crispy base!
Best Burger Sauce, for serving – the creamy, tangy finish.
Shredded lettuce, for serving – for freshness and crunch.
Diced tomatoes, for serving – adds a juicy bite.
Diced pickles, for serving – for that classic burger tang.

How to Make Salmon Burger Bowl

This recipe breaks down how to create a delicious salmon burger bowl, perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how easily these flavors come together!

Step 1: Get your base cooking! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the potato wedges or fries, or follow the package directions for your preferred method. While the fries are baking, let’s make the salmon mixture.
Step 2: Prepare the salmon. In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, dehydrated onions, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drain the canned salmon exceptionally well – this is key for good patties. Gently fold the drained salmon and panko breadcrumbs into the egg mixture until everything is just combined.
Step 3: Form and chill the patties. Shape the salmon mixture into 8 equal-sized balls. For the best texture, refrigerate these for about 20 minutes to firm up. This step helps them hold their shape when cooking.
Step 4: Heat your skillet. While the salmon patties chill, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. You want the skillet nice and hot to get those crispy edges.
Step 5: Smash and break. Place the chilled salmon balls into the hot skillet. Cover the skillet with parchment paper and carefully smash each ball flat with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes until you see lovely crispy edges forming. Flip the smashed patties and, while they are still hot, immediately use your spatula to break each one into bite-sized pieces. This makes it easy to eat your salmon patty bowl with a fork.
Step 6: Add the cheese. Lay 8 slices of American cheese over the broken-up salmon pieces in the skillet. Cook for another 60 seconds, or until the cheese is wonderfully melted and gooey.
Step 7: Assemble your bowls. Start by creating a bed of shredded lettuce in each serving bowl. Add a generous portion of crispy fries to one side of the bowl. Top with the cheesy, broken-up salmon burger pieces. Finish with diced tomatoes and pickles for that classic burger flavor. Drizzle generously with your favorite burger sauce. Enjoy this fantastic salmon burger bowl without bun!

Pro Tips for the Best Salmon Burger Bowl

Elevate your salmon burger bowl game with these simple tricks that guarantee delicious results every time:

Drain it well: Seriously, get as much liquid out of that canned salmon as possible. This is crucial for patties that hold their shape and get nice and crispy.
Chill makes perfect: Don’t skip chilling the salmon balls before smashing. It firms them up, preventing them from falling apart in the skillet and ensuring those delicious crispy edges.
Hot skillet is key: A properly heated skillet is essential for achieving that signature crispy texture on your salmon patties.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, the patties will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness for your salmon patty bowl.

What’s the secret to perfect salmon burger bowl?

The real secret to the best salmon burger bowl is the smashing technique! By smashing the salmon balls and then breaking them up after flipping, you create more surface area for the cheese to melt and make the bowl easier to eat with a fork.

Can I make salmon burger bowl ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the salmon mixture and form the balls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are very cold when they hit the skillet.

How do I avoid common mistakes with salmon burger bowl?

The most common mistake is not draining the salmon well enough, leading to mushy patties. Another pitfall is not getting the skillet hot enough, which results in pale, non-crispy salmon. Finally, resist the urge to overmix the salmon mixture; gentle folding is best for texture.

Best Ways to Serve Salmon Burger Bowl

Once you’ve mastered how to make this delicious dish, you’ll want to explore all the wonderful salmon bowl ideas for serving. It’s incredibly versatile! For a classic burger experience, stick to the shredded lettuce, crispy fries, diced tomatoes, pickles, and a generous drizzle of your favorite burger sauce. It’s a complete meal right in the bowl. Another fantastic option is to swap the fries for a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice for a heartier, grain-based bowl. You could also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh dill for extra flavor. For more delicious bowl ideas, check out these flavorful high protein taco bowls.

Salmon Burger Bowl Nutritional Information

Wondering about the salmon burger bowl nutritional information? This recipe offers a balanced meal. Per serving (this recipe makes 4 servings):

Calories: Approximately 550-650 (this can vary based on fries and sauce used)
Fat: 30-40g
Saturated Fat: 10-15g
Protein: 30-35g
Carbohydrates: 35-45g
Fiber: 4-6g
Sugar: 5-8g
Sodium: 800-1100mg (highly dependent on sauce and cheese)

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, particularly the type of fries, cheese, and burger sauce you choose for your healthy salmon burger bowl. For a different healthy option, consider trying this healthy Mediterranean tzatziki chicken.

How to Store and Reheat Salmon Burger Bowl

Properly storing and reheating your salmon burger bowl ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal later, just like all the best salmon recipes for bowls. After cooking, let the components cool completely before storing. For the best results, store the salmon patties, fries, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, everything stays fresh and the fries don’t get soggy. You can keep these components in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the cooked salmon patties and fries separately for up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm the salmon patties and fries in an oven or air fryer at around 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving the fries if you want them to retain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Salmon Burger Bowl

What is a salmon burger bowl?

A salmon burger bowl is essentially a deconstructed take on a salmon burger, served without a bun. It typically features a base of greens or grains, topped with cooked salmon patties (often broken into pieces), and various burger fixings like tomatoes, pickles, and a special sauce. It’s a convenient and delicious way to enjoy salmon burger flavors.

How to make salmon burger bowl

To make a salmon burger bowl, you’ll start by preparing your salmon patties – usually a mixture of canned salmon, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, formed into balls, smashed, and cooked until crispy. While the patties cook, prepare your base, like shredded lettuce or cooked grains, and your chosen toppings. Assemble everything in a bowl, adding the cheesy salmon burger pieces and sauce last. It’s a straightforward process that delivers amazing results.

Can I use fresh salmon instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked fresh salmon, you can flake it and use it in place of canned salmon. Just ensure it’s well-drained and doesn’t have excess moisture, as that can make the patties fall apart. The flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious for your salmon patty bowl.

What are some good toppings for a salmon burger bowl?

Beyond the classics like lettuce, tomato, and pickles, consider adding sliced avocado for creaminess, a sprinkle of red onion for a sharp bite, some jalapeños for heat, or even a drizzle of sriracha mayo for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless for customizing your easy salmon burger bowl! You might also enjoy these zesty shrimp avocado bowls.

Variations of Salmon Burger Bowl You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic salmon burger bowl, don’t be afraid to experiment! Here are a few ideas to shake things up:

Avocado Lover’s Dream: For a truly decadent salmon burger bowl with avocado, add sliced ripe avocado to your bowl. Its creamy texture and healthy fats pair beautifully with the flaky salmon and crispy fries. A squeeze of lime juice over the avocado is a must!
Hearty Quinoa Base: Swap out the fries for a scoop of fluffy quinoa to create a more substantial and nutrient-dense salmon burger bowl with quinoa. This makes it a fantastic, filling meal that’s packed with protein and fiber.
Spicy Kick: Add some heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha mayo to your bowl. This is perfect if you enjoy a bit of spice with your meals.
Air Fryer Perfection: If you don’t want to use the oven, cook your potato wedges or fries in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through, for an even crispier result. For more air fryer tips, you might find this guide on how to use an air fryer helpful.