Grilled Alaska salmon burger on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato.

These Alaska Salmon Burgers are a fast, flavorful way to enjoy the benefits of wild-caught seafood, even on your busiest days. Made with canned Alaska salmon, a touch of barbecue sauce, and fresh breadcrumbs, these burgers come together in minutes and are packed with heart-healthy omega-3s and bold, smoky flavor. Serve them with your favorite toppings on toasted buns for an easy weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue hit. They’re just as delicious topped with melted cheese—or try them with a dollop of garlic aioli! Sockeye or pink salmon work well in this recipe, though any wild Alaska salmon will work beautifully.

Photo and recipe courtesy of Alaska Seafood.

  • Prep Time:

    10 minutes

  • Cook Time:

    10 minutes

  • Total Time:

    20 minutes

  • Servings:

    4

  • Ingredients:

    • 12-14.75 ounces canned Alaska salmon, bones and skin removed
    • 1 egg, slightly beaten
    • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
    • 1/4 cup thick barbecue sauce
    • 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (about 2 slices of bread)
    • 4 cheese slices, if desired
    • 4 hamburger buns or rolls

  • Instructions:

    1. Drain salmon thoroughly, squeezing out excess moisture. In a bowl, flake salmon with a fork. Add egg, onion, barbecue sauce and breadcrumbs. Blend thoroughly until mixture is almost smooth.
    2. Divide and form mixture into 4 patties. Preheat broiler/oven or grill to medium-high heat. Place patties on a spray-coated broiling pan or well-oiled perforated grill rack, set 4-5 inches from heat. Cook about 4-5 minutes per side. Add cheese slices, if desired. Serve on buns or rolls.

    Serving Suggestions:

    Serve these salmon burgers with crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onion for a classic combo—or go bold with a tangy slaw and extra barbecue sauce. For a tropical twist, swap the barbecue sauce for teriyaki and top with grilled pineapple slices for a Hawaiian-inspired burger. Pair with a cucumber-dill salad or roasted sweet potato wedges for a light and refreshing meal.

If you’re looking for more simple, reliable seafood ideas like this, explore our Approachable Seafood guide—easy wins that make cooking fish feel a whole lot simpler.

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Canned & Tinned • Hearty • Quick & Easy