BLT Salmon Burgers bring together the smoky, savory flavor of grilled salmon with the fresh, crisp textures of a classic BLT sandwich. These burgers feature flaky salmon patties layered with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a flavorful spread—all stacked on a soft bun. It’s a refreshing and wholesome twist on the traditional beef burger, perfect for a lighter yet satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe offers an ideal balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or looking for something new to serve at a weekend cookout, BLT Salmon Burgers make a standout choice.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed

• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Olive oil for cooking

• 4 hamburger buns

• 8 slices cooked bacon

• Lettuce leaves

• Sliced tomatoes

Directions

• Cut salmon into small cubes and pulse in a food processor until finely chopped but not pureed

• Transfer salmon to a bowl and mix with breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper

• Shape mixture into 4 equal-sized patties

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat

• Cook salmon patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through

• Toast hamburger buns lightly in the skillet or oven

• Assemble each burger with a salmon patty, two slices of bacon, lettuce, and tomato slices on a toasted bun

• Serve warm

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving

• Protein: 30 grams

• Total Fat: 28 grams

• Saturated Fat: 7 grams

• Cholesterol: 100 milligrams

• Carbohydrates: 30 grams

• Fiber: 2 grams

• Sugar: 4 grams

• Sodium: 800 milligrams

Why This Recipe Stands Out

BLT Salmon Burgers are distinctive because they successfully combine the rich tradition of a BLT sandwich with the nutritional and culinary benefits of salmon. This fusion makes them more than just a seafood dish; it turns them into a hearty, fulfilling meal. The salmon patty’s flavor is enhanced with ingredients like Dijon mustard, lemon zest, and garlic, which give the burger a vibrant and zesty profile that’s not too overpowering. The use of panko breadcrumbs ensures the patties hold together while remaining light and delicate in texture. The crispy bacon layers add smokiness and a salty crunch, perfectly complementing the moist and flaky salmon.

What sets this recipe apart further is its accessibility. Many seafood burger recipes can feel intimidating because of complex ingredients or preparation techniques, but BLT Salmon Burgers are refreshingly straightforward. Using basic kitchen tools like a food processor and a skillet, even beginners can create a restaurant-quality dish. The components—salmon, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and bun—are familiar, yet together they create a burger that feels unique and special. It’s a great choice for those looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen or relying on hard-to-find ingredients.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

Salmon is one of the healthiest proteins you can include in your diet, making it the star ingredient in this recipe for good reason. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels. These essential fatty acids are also linked to improved cognitive function and healthier skin. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is necessary for muscle repair, hormone production, and overall body maintenance. Additionally, it provides a good dose of vitamin D, which is vital for bone health and immune system support.

Bacon, though often considered indulgent, can contribute to the overall protein and flavor profile of the meal. In moderation, it adds smoky notes and satisfies those looking for a more traditional burger experience. Lettuce and tomato offer important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and dietary fiber, which supports digestion and promotes satiety. The crisp textures of these vegetables also enhance the overall eating experience, balancing the richness of the salmon and bacon.

Dijon mustard and lemon zest in the salmon patty mixture contribute antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory compounds, along with bright, sharp flavors. Using panko breadcrumbs rather than regular breadcrumbs keeps the patties lighter and less dense, while olive oil used for cooking adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

The hamburger bun provides carbohydrates for energy, though for those seeking a gluten-free option, it’s easy to substitute with a gluten-free bun or even lettuce wraps, maintaining the burger’s versatility.

Cooking Tips

While BLT Salmon Burgers are simple to prepare, there are several techniques to ensure the best results every time. First, it’s important to pulse the salmon in the food processor just enough to break it down while still retaining some texture. Over-processing can turn the salmon into a paste, making the patties dense rather than light and flaky.

Chilling the formed salmon patties for 15–30 minutes before cooking helps them firm up and hold their shape better during searing. This is especially useful if the mixture feels slightly soft after combining all ingredients. Cooking the patties in a well-heated skillet ensures a crisp, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside moist. Use olive oil or avocado oil to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.

When assembling the burgers, toasting the buns lightly in the skillet or oven adds an additional layer of texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when stacked with lettuce, tomato, and salmon patty. For an extra touch, consider adding a sauce or spread. A simple lemon-garlic aioli, yogurt-based sauce, or even a classic tartar sauce can elevate the burger further.

Lastly, bacon should be cooked until crisp but not overly brittle, so it still provides structure within the burger. Layering the lettuce directly under the salmon patty can help catch juices and maintain the bun’s integrity.

Serving Suggestions

BLT Salmon Burgers can be served as a complete meal on their own or paired with a variety of side dishes to round things out. Classic choices include baked sweet potato fries or a simple green salad with vinaigrette. For a lighter, summery presentation, consider serving them alongside grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.

These burgers also work well as part of a picnic or outdoor barbecue menu. Because they’re slightly lighter than beef burgers, they can be enjoyed in warmer weather without feeling overly heavy. For gatherings, you could even serve mini BLT Salmon Sliders using smaller buns, making them easier to eat as finger food.

If you’re catering to a gluten-free audience, swap out the regular buns for gluten-free versions or large lettuce leaves. This maintains the dish’s structure while making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. For a gourmet touch, add avocado slices or a poached egg on top of the salmon patty, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional profile.

When it comes to beverages, pair these burgers with refreshing drinks like iced tea, light white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon. These complement the citrus and herb notes in the salmon without overpowering the dish.

Conclusion

BLT Salmon Burgers combine the best elements of two beloved classics: the familiar structure of a BLT and the nutritional benefits of a fresh salmon fillet. They stand out as a flavorful, lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a mix of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. From the flaky, savory salmon patties to the crispy bacon and fresh vegetables, every bite delivers satisfaction without feeling overly indulgent.

The versatility of this recipe means it can easily fit into both casual weeknight meals and more formal gatherings. Its balance of healthful ingredients and comforting flavors makes it a reliable go-to for anyone looking to enjoy seafood in a fun, accessible way. Plus, with straightforward cooking techniques and adaptable serving options, BLT Salmon Burgers are as practical as they are delicious.

For website readers looking to refresh their menu with something both nutritious and crave-worthy, this recipe is a perfect addition. Whether enjoyed as a lunch option, dinner centerpiece, or even in slider form at a party, BLT Salmon Burgers promise to become a staple dish in your recipe collection.