Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Air Fryer Salmon Burgers practically melt in your mouth! Salmon is all dressed up with panko breadcrumbs, herbs, Dijon mustard and more to create the very best flavor and consistency. The air fryer makes cooking these burgers a total breeze and helps to crisp them up perfectly on the outside while staying tender and moist on the inside!

Every day I fall a little bit more in love with my air fryer. As soon as I think I’ve done all I can do with it, it impresses me even more! Lately, my greatest air fryer obsession has been this quick and easy salmon burger recipe. By using the air fryer, the burgers take just about 6 minutes to cook and always turn out so crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!

Let’s talk about the flavors at play here, shall we? Because these salmon burgers are anything but bland. Dijon mustard, lemon juice, herbs and seasonings all come together to both compliment the natural flavors of the salmon and add the most mouthwatering flavors of their own. I’ve also included a little recipe for lemon dill mayo to slather on top of your burger that’ll really send it over the top.

Why You’ll Love This

• The consistency. These salmon burgers are made with all the right stuff to keep them from drying out. When cooked at the right temperature in the air fryer for just about 6 minutes, they practically melt in your mouth while still remaining crisp on the outside.
• Great protein alternative. Maybe you’re cutting back on red meats or dabbling in seafood or maybe you’re just looking to try something new. Either way, these salmon burgers are a wonderful alternative to your usual cheeseburger!
• SO EASY. Thank you, air fryer! Tossing together the ingredients for the burger patties takes no time, and the air fryer takes only minutes to preheat and actually cook the burgers. When you need a homemade dinner on the table quick, this is a great recipe to use.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here is a list of ingredients you will need to make salmon burgers with lemon and dill mayo. Make sure to scroll down to view the full recipe for exact measurements.

• Salmon
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parsley
• Scallions
• Dijon mustard
• Mayonnaise
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cayenne pepper
• Vegetable oil
• Rolls

For the mayo:

• Low-fat mayo
• Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Dill

How To Make Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Here is a general overview of the steps involved to make salmon burgers in the air fryer. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of this post for the full recipe.

Combine the ingredients (without salmon). Whisk together 3 tablespoons of panko, parsley, scallions, Dijon mustard, mayo, juice of half a lemon, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Place 3/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.

Blend the salmon. In a food processor, pulse the salmon pieces twice – just enough to blend it while still giving it some texture.

Create the burger patties. Mix the salmon into the bowl with the panko-mayo mixture. Use a 1/3 measuring cup to scoop the salmon and form into patties with your hands. Coat each patty with the panko breadcrumbs on both sides.

Let them chill. Once all the patties are formed and coated with breadcrumbs, place them on a lined baking sheet in the fridge for about 10 minutes.

Cook the salmon burgers. Place the patties into the basket of your air fryer and cook at 370°F for 6 minutes.

Make the mayo and assemble the burgers. Mix together the ingredients for the lemon and dill mayo. Spread on one half on a roll and place the salmon patty on top. Add another dollop on top of the salmon patty and place the other half of the roll on top.

Recipe Tips, Substitutions, and Variations

Air fryer salmon burgers are easy to make and with these tips and tricks, you’ll be a pro at making these in no time!

• You can use your stovetop instead. In a large skillet, heat 1/2 cup of vegetable oil over medium high heat. Once the oil is hot and glistening, cook two salmon patties at a time. Cook each side about 4 minutes each. They should have a nice brown crust.
• Don’t blend the salmon too much. Pulse the salmon pieces TWICE. No more or your salmon will turn into a paste. You want small and large chunks to give it texture.
• Use a good cut of salmon. First of all, make sure it’s skinless! I like to use sockeye salmon. However, you can use whatever cut of salmon you like best. If it’s frozen, just make sure to let it slowly thaw in the fridge prior to using.
• Watch the air fryer. Don’t just walk away and leave your salmon burgers to cook without keeping an eye on them! Just like ovens, all air fryers vary and some can run hotter than others. Panko burns quickly so you want to be safe than sorry!
• Try another sauce. Homemade Tartar Sauce is another great tangy sauce to slather on top of these air fryer salmon burgers!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Once cooled to room temperature, you can store your cooked salmon burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, reheat your leftovers in the air fryer for just a few minutes until warmed through.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Serve these fresh salmon burgers with some just as fresh side dishes! Some of my favorites include:

• Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
• Smashed Asian Cucumber Salad
• Big Mac Salad
• Air Fryer Pita Chips