Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the scent of sweet chili wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile. It’s time to whip up a batch of these irresistible Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce! The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its vibrant flavors but also in its quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or impressing friends at gatherings. Each protein-packed bite delivers a satisfying crunch, thanks to a crispy exterior, while the creamy garlic sauce adds a luscious touch that takes it to the next level. Plus, with heart-healthy omega-3s from fresh salmon, you can feel great about indulging in this delightful dish. Curious to find out just how easy it is to bring this tasty meal to your table? Let’s dive in! Why are Sweet Chili Salmon Balls a must-try? Convenience: These bites come together quickly, making them perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle. Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and garlic creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing. Health Benefits: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, these salmon balls are heart-healthy without sacrificing taste. Versatility: Pair them with a zesty green salad or jasmine rice for a fulfilling meal, or enjoy them as an appetizer! If you love easy-to-make, delicious dishes, you might also want to check out my recipes for Garlic Butter Salmon or Garlic Chicken Zucchini for more tasty options! Sweet Chili Salmon Balls Ingredients • Here’s everything you need to create these delicious Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce. For the Salmon Balls Fresh Salmon – The core ingredient that gives these balls their protein and omega-3 goodness; opt for the freshest quality for the best flavor. Sweet Chili Sauce – This is what adds that delightful balance of sweetness and spice; if you need a substitute, mix honey and soy sauce for a quick fix. Breadcrumbs – They provide the necessary structure and help bind the salmon; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for those with dietary restrictions. Egg – A crucial binder to hold everything together; swap for a flax egg if you’re looking for a vegan option. Minced Garlic – Elevates the flavor profile beautifully; adjust the amount based on how garlicky you like it. Chopped Green Onions – These add a fresh, mild onion flavor; chives work well as a substitute if you’re short on green onions. Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall taste; feel free to tailor them to your preference. For the Creamy Garlic Sauce Cream – Creates a smooth and rich base for the sauce; consider using a plant-based cream for a dairy-free version. Minced Garlic – Mirrors the flavor from the salmon balls for consistency; raw garlic gives more intensity, so adjust to your taste. Salt and Pepper – Season to your liking for the perfect finishing touch; balance is key! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to create a beautifully crispy exterior on your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls. While the oven heats, you can start preparing your salmon mixture, which will make things seamless later on. Step 2: Prepare the Salmon Take your fresh salmon and finely chop it, or pulse it in a food processor until you achieve a chunky consistency. The goal is to maintain some texture while ensuring it’s manageable for mixing. This step is crucial for the overall flavor and will help bind the ingredients together seamlessly. Step 3: Combine the Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon with sweet chili sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly for about 2-3 minutes until well combined. This mixture will be the heart of your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls, so make sure it’s evenly mixed and blended. Step 4: Form the Salmon Balls Now, use your hands to form the salmon mixture into small balls, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them neatly on a greased, parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart to allow even cooking. This step is not only fun but crucial for achieving that delightful crunch you crave. Step 5: Bake the Salmon Balls Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the salmon balls for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety. The delightful aroma of your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls will fill your kitchen during this time! Step 6: Broil for Extra Crispiness If you prefer an extra crispy finish, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. This step will give your salmon balls that perfect golden-brown crust, enhancing both the look and texture. Monitor closely to prevent burning and ensure they turn out just right. Step 7: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Sauce While your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls are baking, whisk together the cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create the creamy garlic sauce. Adjust the consistency with a splash of water if needed. This versatile sauce is the perfect complement to your salmon balls, adding a rich and flavorful touch. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Once the salmon balls are out of the oven and have cooled slightly, serve them with the creamy garlic sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping. This pairing enhances the flavor experience, making your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls an irresistible treat for any occasion! Expert Tips for Sweet Chili Salmon Balls Chill the Mixture: Let the salmon mixture rest in the fridge for 15 minutes before shaping. This helps the ingredients stick together better, preventing the balls from falling apart. Adjust Texture: If the salmon mixture feels too dry, a splash of sweet chili sauce can add moisture; if it’s too wet, incorporate more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency. Check Temperature: Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. Crispy Finish: For an extra crunchy exterior, switch to broil for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning! Flavor Pairing: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes to customize the flavor of your salmon balls; small adjustments can elevate the dish immensely. Make Ahead Options These Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the salmon mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply follow all the steps through mixing and form the balls, but stop before baking. To keep their flavor fresh, store the uncooked salmon balls in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just preheat your oven and bake them straight from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if needed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade salmon balls with minimal effort, right when you need them! What to Serve with Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Elevate your meal experience by exploring delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement the savory richness of these scrumptious salmon bites. Crispy Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness, offering a lovely crunch. Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice serves as a soft bed for your salmon balls, soaking up the creamy garlic sauce beautifully. Roasted Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and lemon adds a vibrant splash of color and pairs perfectly with the salmon’s flavors. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy salmon balls and enhance the overall heartiness of the meal. Spicy Mango Salsa: The bright flavors of mango and a hint of heat complement the sweet chili sauce, adding an exciting twist to each bite. Iced Green Tea: A chilled glass of refreshing iced green tea is a wonderful beverage pairing, cleansing the palate between bites while adding a touch of elegance. How to Store and Freeze Sweet Chili Salmon Balls Fridge: Store leftover Sweet Chili Salmon Balls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They taste great reheated or cold, perfect for quick snacks! Freezer: Freeze uncooked salmon balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months—great for meal prep! Reheating: Reheat baked salmon balls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Use the creamy garlic sauce for extra moisture and flavor. Wrapping: For better preservation, wrap the cooked salmon balls tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh! Sweet Chili Salmon Balls Variations Embrace the opportunity to get creative with your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls and elevate them to new heights! Canned Tuna: Swap fresh salmon for canned tuna to enjoy a more economical option without losing flavor. A quick mix makes this a great alternative. Vegetable Boost: Toss in finely diced bell peppers to add a colorful crunch and an extra vitamin punch. This subtle tweak can make a delightful difference! Spicy Kick: Add minced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the mixture for those who crave a bit more heat. The result will tantalize your taste buds with every bite! Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or cilantro in place of green onions for a fresh twist on flavor. This infusion adds a refreshing brightness that perfectly complements the sauce. Imitation Crab: Try using imitation crab meat for a seafood variation that’s just as delightful. Its unique texture will offer a different yet delicious experience! Quinoa Binding: For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with cooked quinoa. This adds a nutty flavor and extra protein while retaining moisture. Avocado Garnish: Top the baked salmon balls with sliced avocado before serving for an elegant touch. The creaminess will pair so well with the citrusy garlic sauce. For delicious pairings, consider enjoying these salmon balls alongside a light salad or some of my favorite meals like Garlic Chili Oil Chicken Bites for a delightful dinner! Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best salmon for this recipe? Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, always look for salmon with bright, vivid color and no dark spots. The flesh should be firm and smell like the ocean, not fishy. Wild-caught salmon is typically a great choice, but sustainably farmed salmon can also be a good option. If possible, ask your fishmonger for the freshest catch of the day! How should I store leftover Sweet Chili Salmon Balls? After enjoying your delicious Sweet Chili Salmon Balls, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm through. They also make for a delightful cold snack! Can I freeze the salmon balls before cooking? Absolutely! To freeze uncooked Sweet Chili Salmon Balls, first place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they’re not touching. Freeze them for about 2 hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. What should I do if my salmon mixture is too wet? Very! If you find your salmon mixture is too wet and difficult to form into balls, simply add a bit more breadcrumbs until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mix in a teaspoon of cornstarch, which helps absorb excess moisture. This will ensure your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls hold their shape while baking. Can my pet eat salmon from this recipe? While salmon is generally safe for dogs, it’s best to avoid giving them Sweet Chili Salmon Balls due to the added ingredients like garlic and sodium, which can be harmful to pets. If you want to share with your furry friend, simply bake a portion of the salmon without seasonings. Always consult your vet if unsure! How do I ensure my salmon balls are baked perfectly? To ensure your Sweet Chili Salmon Balls are perfect, use a food thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Additionally, if you prefer extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning. Enjoy the delightful crunch! Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce You'll Love Delicious Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, packed with flavor and health benefits. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsChilling Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 ballsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salmon Balls1 pound Fresh Salmon Opt for the freshest quality.1/2 cup Sweet Chili Sauce Substitute with honey and soy sauce if needed.1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free for dietary restrictions.1 large Egg Can substitute with a flax egg for vegan option.2 cloves Minced Garlic Adjust based on preference.2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions Chives work as a substitute.1 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon PepperFor the Creamy Garlic Sauce1/2 cup Cream Use plant-based cream for a dairy-free version.1 cloves Minced Garlic Use raw for more intensity.1/2 teaspoon Salt1/2 teaspoon Pepper Equipment OvenMixing BowlBaking Sheetfood processor Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Finely chop the fresh salmon or pulse in a food processor until chunky.In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon with sweet chili sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly for 2-3 minutes.Form the salmon mixture into small balls, roughly 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a greased, parchment-lined baking sheet.Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.While baking, whisk together the cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper for the sauce.Serve the salmon balls with the creamy garlic sauce drizzled on top or on the side. Nutrition Serving: 1ballCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 15gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesLet the salmon mixture rest in the fridge for 15 minutes for better binding. Adjust moisture with sweet chili sauce or breadcrumbs as needed. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
