How to Make Delicious Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Air fryer salmon burgers are a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option that can be made right at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have juicy, flavorful salmon patties ready in under 30 minutes with an air fryer. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about making salmon burgers in the air fryer, from ingredients to cook times and serving suggestions.

Benefits of Cooking Salmon Burgers in an Air Fryer

Using an air fryer to cook salmon burgers has several advantages:

• Quick cooking time – Salmon burgers can be cooked in an air fryer in just 12-15 minutes total, The air fryer uses rapid hot air to cook food quickly while producing a crispy exterior,

• Doesn’t heat up the kitchen – Unlike using the oven or stove, the air fryer doesn’t make your kitchen hot It cooks food by circulating hot air internally

• Less oil needed – Only a small amount of oil is needed to cook the burgers in the air fryer. The salmon patties come out crispy on the outside without being greasy.

• Easy cleanup – With minimal oil, there is less splattering and mess to clean up afterwards. The air fryer basket can just be wiped out.

• Better for you: air-frying uses less oil than regular frying, so the burgers take in less fat and oil overall.

Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Salmon burgers just require a few basic ingredients that most people have on hand:

• Salmon fillets – Use fresh raw salmon. About 1 pound of salmon makes 4-6 burgers.

• Breadcrumbs – Help bind the patties Panko gives the crispiest texture

• Eggs – Bind the salmon mixture together so the burgers hold their shape.

• Onion – Finely diced onion adds moisture and flavor.

• Mayonnaise – Adds richness and moisture to the burgers.

• Dijon mustard – Provides a tangy flavor.

• Fresh herbs – Like dill, parsley, chives.

• Spices – Old Bay, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Olive oil – For greasing the air fryer basket so the patties don’t stick.

Step-by-Step Guide for Making Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Follow these simple steps for perfect air fryer salmon burgers every time:

1. Cut the salmon into chunks – Dice the skinless salmon fillets into 1-inch pieces. This makes it easier to blend.

2. Make the salmon mixture – In a food processor, combine the salmon, egg, onion, mayo, mustard, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. Pulse until evenly mixed but still has some texture.

3. Shape into patties – Use your hands to form the salmon mixture into 4 to 6 evenly shaped patties, about 1/2 inch thick.

4. Let chill – For best results, place the uncooked patties in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better.

5. Preheat air fryer – Preheating for 3-5 minutes helps ensure the burgers cook evenly. Set to 400°F.

6. Grease basket – Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.

7. Cook salmon burgers – Place patties in a single layer in the basket, without overcrowding. Air fry for 6 minutes, flip, then cook 6 more minutes.

8. Check doneness – Salmon burgers are done when the center is still moist and flakes easily with a fork, about 145°F internally.

9. Assemble and serve! – Build your burgers by adding desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, and sauce on a bun.

Handy Tips for Perfect Results

• When forming the patties, make them uniform in size and thickness so they cook evenly.

• Don’t overfill the air fryer basket. Air flow is important for even cooking. Cook in batches if needed.

• Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Don’t overcook.

• Let the cooked salmon burgers rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

• Brush both sides of burger buns with olive oil or butter before toasting in the air fryer.

• Leftover cooked salmon burgers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat well.

Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions

The basic salmon patty mixture takes on other flavors easily:

• Southwest – add cumin, chipotle powder, garlic, lime juice, and cilantro. Top with guacamole.

• Lemon-Dill – fresh dill and lemon zest adds bright flavor. Remoulade sauce on top.

• Thai – add Thai red curry paste, fresh ginger, and scallions. Top with pickled vegetables and peanut sauce.

• Italian – add sundried tomatoes, basil, parsley, oregano, and parmesan. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella.

Salmon burgers pair well with so many sides and extras:

• On brioche or Hawaiian rolls, ciabatta, or potato buns

• Lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, spinach

• Tartar sauce, remoulade sauce, herb aioli, pesto mayo

• With oven fries, sweet potato fries, or tater tots

• On a fresh salad or wrap, grain bowl

Now that you know how quick and easy it is to make salmon burgers in the air fryer, you can enjoy this tasty and healthy meal any night of the week! Adjust the flavors to suit your tastes and get creative with different toppings and sides.