When you crave something juicy, flavorful, and a little indulgent — Garlic Butter Salmon Burgers with Lemon Aioli deliver on every level. These burgers are a fresh and luxurious twist on a classic comfort food, combining flaky, buttery salmon patties infused with garlic and herbs, seared to golden perfection, and served with a tangy homemade lemon aioli.

The balance of creamy sauce, crisp lettuce, and tender salmon makes every bite unforgettable. Light yet hearty, elegant yet easy — it’s the perfect burger for seafood lovers and anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner routine.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures everything I adore about salmon — its rich flavor, tender texture, and ability to shine with minimal ingredients. The garlic butter gives the burgers depth and a melt-in-your-mouth quality, while the lemon aioli adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.

It’s a seafood burger that feels indulgent but wholesome at the same time. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — great for grilling outdoors, pan-searing at home, or even meal-prepping for healthy lunches.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it redefines what a burger can be. Instead of heavy beef patties, these Garlic Butter Salmon Burgers are fresh, flavorful, and nutrient-packed. The combination of buttery salmon and citrusy aioli creates a restaurant-worthy experience that’s simple enough for home cooking.

It’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special — comfort food that feels light, elegant, and satisfying in every bite.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~490 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course / Dinner
• Cuisine: American / Seafood Fusion

Ingredients

For the Salmon Burgers:

• 1½ lbs (680 g) fresh salmon fillet (skin removed)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (or dill)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for cooking)

For the Lemon Aioli:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• 1½ tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 4 brioche or whole-grain burger buns
• Lettuce leaves or arugula
• Tomato slices (optional)
• Red onion rings (optional)

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Prepare the lemon aioli and chill.
2. Chop and mix the salmon burger mixture.
3. Shape into patties and chill briefly.
4. Pan-sear or grill until golden and cooked through.
5. Assemble burgers with aioli, lettuce, and toppings.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Aioli

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while preparing the burgers — this allows the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Finely chop half the salmon into small chunks and pulse the other half in a food processor until it forms a coarse paste. Combine both in a large bowl. Add melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until combined — avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾ inch thick. Place them on a plate or tray, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold together while cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Burgers

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the salmon patties and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Transfer to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Lightly butter the burger buns and toast them in the same skillet until golden and slightly crisp — about 1 minute.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

Spread a generous amount of lemon aioli on both sides of the bun. Layer lettuce, tomato, salmon patty, and onion rings if desired. Add a final drizzle of aioli and top with the remaining bun.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve your Garlic Butter Salmon Burgers warm with:

• A side of crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or coleslaw
• A refreshing cucumber salad or mixed greens
• A chilled sparkling lemonade or white wine like Chardonnay

For a light meal, serve the salmon patty over salad greens with a drizzle of lemon aioli instead of in a bun.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh salmon: It binds better and has a richer flavor than canned.
• Chill the patties: Keeps them from falling apart during cooking.
• Don’t overcook: Salmon dries out quickly; cook until just opaque.
• Add zest to the aioli: Fresh lemon zest adds an extra pop of flavor.
• Make it ahead: Aioli and patties can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Salmon Burgers: Add ½ tsp cayenne or Cajun spice to the patty mix.
2. Asian-Inspired Twist: Mix in soy sauce, green onions, and sesame oil; serve with sriracha mayo.
3. Greek Style: Add chopped dill and feta cheese, and serve with tzatziki instead of aioli.
4. Avocado Topping: Add mashed avocado or guacamole for creaminess.
5. Low-Carb Option: Serve the patty in a lettuce wrap instead of a bun.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store cooked salmon patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a tray until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
• Aioli: Store separately in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment Needed

• Food processor (for chopping salmon)
• Mixing bowls
• Nonstick or cast-iron skillet (for pan-searing)
• Spatula or fish turner
• Zester (for the aioli)

FAQ

1. Can I use canned salmon?
Yes, though fresh salmon gives better texture. If using canned, drain well and reduce breadcrumbs slightly.

2. Can I grill the salmon burgers?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, using a well-oiled grate.

3. Can I use other fish?
Yes — try trout, mahi-mahi, or cod for a different flavor profile.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make it fully gluten-free.

5. What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the aioli?
Greek yogurt or sour cream make great lighter alternatives.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Salmon Burgers with Lemon Aioli are the perfect example of how gourmet and comfort food can coexist beautifully. Every element — from the buttery, herb-infused salmon to the tangy, creamy aioli — works in harmony to create a burger that’s refreshing, flavorful, and truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting friends, grilling on the weekend, or simply treating yourself to something special, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen — effortlessly.