Trader Joe's Salmon Burger Air Fryer: Quick and Easy Guide

If you’re looking for the easiest weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and delicious, look no further than Trader Joe’s Salmon Burger Air Fryer recipe. These frozen premium salmon burgers transform from freezer to table in just 12-15 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy families who refuse to compromise on nutrition or taste.

This comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to cook Trader Joe’s salmon burgers in an air fryer for perfectly crispy, golden results every single time.

Table of Contents

Why Trader Joe’s Salmon Burgers Are a Freezer Staple

Trader Joe’s Premium Salmon Burgers have become a viral sensation on social media for good reason. These individually wrapped frozen salmon patties offer unbeatable convenience without sacrificing quality. Here’s what makes them stand out in the freezer aisle:

Exceptional Convenience: Each box contains 4 individually wrapped salmon burgers that cook straight from frozen. No thawing required, which means dinner can happen even on your most chaotic evenings.

High-Quality Ingredients: Made with wild-caught Alaskan pink salmon, these burgers contain real fish with minimal fillers. The ingredient list includes salmon, mirepoix powder (onions, carrots, celery), and basic seasonings.

Impressive Nutrition: Each salmon burger contains approximately 100 calories and 15 grams of protein, plus 100% of your daily vitamin D. For anyone tracking macros or following a high-protein diet, these burgers deliver serious nutritional value.

Budget-Friendly: At around $7.49 for 4 burgers, Trader Joe’s salmon burgers cost less than $2 per serving, making them more affordable than most restaurant meals or takeout options.

Versatile and Delicious: The mild, savory flavor works with countless toppings and serving styles. Whether you prefer them on a bun, over salad, or in a grain bowl, these burgers adapt to any meal plan.

Perfect Texture: Unlike some frozen fish products, these salmon burgers have a tender, flaky texture that rivals freshly made salmon patties. The air fryer enhances this texture, creating crispy edges while keeping the center moist.

What’s Inside Trader Joe’s Premium Salmon Burgers

Understanding what you’re cooking helps you appreciate these convenient frozen salmon burgers even more. According to the Trader Joe’s website, the Premium Salmon Burgers contain:

Wild-Caught Alaskan Pink Salmon: The primary ingredient, providing omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein
Mirepoix Powder: A classic French blend of onions, carrots, and celery that adds depth of flavor
Tapioca Syrup and Cornstarch: Acts as a binder to hold the burgers together
Seasonings: Salt, onion powder, and natural flavors enhance the salmon’s taste
Preservation Ingredients: Rosemary extract, tocopherols (vitamin E), and ascorbic acid keep the burgers fresh

Each frozen salmon burger patty weighs approximately 3.2 ounces and comes individually vacuum-sealed for maximum freshness and easy portion control.

How to Cook Trader Joe’s Salmon Burgers in Air Fryer

Cooking Trader Joe’s salmon burgers in the air fryer is incredibly straightforward. This hands-off method produces perfectly cooked frozen salmon patties with minimal effort and mess. Follow these simple steps for the best results:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer temperature to 380-400°F and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. While some air fryer models don’t require preheating, doing so helps achieve even cooking and that desirable golden-brown exterior. Most people find that 380-390°F is the sweet spot for frozen salmon burgers.

Step 2: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of olive oil. This prevents the salmon burgers from sticking and makes cleanup easier. You can also use air fryer parchment paper with holes for even easier cleanup.

Step 3: Place Frozen Salmon Burgers in the Basket

Remove the Trader Joe’s salmon burgers from their vacuum-sealed packaging. Do not thaw the burgers—they must be completely frozen for best results. When thawed, these burgers become very soft and difficult to handle without falling apart.

Place the frozen salmon burger patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch or overlap. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate around each burger, ensuring even cooking and maximum crispiness. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook them in batches.

Step 4: Air Fry the Frozen Salmon Burgers

Cook the salmon burgers at 380-400°F for 10-15 minutes total. Here’s the detailed timeline:

At 380°F: Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 6-7 minute mark
At 400°F: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 5-6 minute mark

The burgers are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and have a golden-brown exterior. Using an instant-read meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check doneness.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the salmon burger. The internal temperature should read at least 145°F for safe consumption. The exterior should be golden brown and slightly crispy, while the inside remains tender and flaky.

If your salmon burgers haven’t reached the proper temperature, continue air frying in 2-minute increments until they’re fully cooked.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the cooked salmon burgers rest for 1-2 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the burger, ensuring maximum moisture and flavor in every bite.

Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

Don’t Skip the Flip: While some foods don’t need flipping in the air fryer, salmon burgers benefit from being turned halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning on both sides and prevents one side from becoming too dark.

Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overlapping burgers won’t cook evenly and you’ll miss out on that crispy texture on all sides.

Light Oil is Key: Just a light spray or brush of oil is all you need. Too much oil can make the burgers greasy rather than crispy.

Season Before Cooking: While Trader Joe’s salmon burgers are already seasoned, you can add extra flavor by sprinkling them with Old Bay seasoning, lemon pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spice blend before air frying.

Monitor First-Time Cooking: Every air fryer cooks slightly differently. The first time you make these frozen salmon burgers, check them a minute or two early to prevent overcooking. Note your perfect cooking time for future reference.

Use a Meat Thermometer: This inexpensive tool guarantees perfectly cooked salmon every time. Guessing can lead to overcooked, dry burgers.

Keep Them Frozen: Never thaw Trader Joe’s salmon burgers before cooking. The texture becomes too soft and the burgers fall apart easily when handled.

Delicious Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Salmon Burgers

One of the best things about Trader Joe’s salmon burgers is their incredible versatility. Here are some creative and delicious ways to serve these air fryer salmon patties:

Classic Salmon Burger

Serve your air-fried salmon burger on a toasted brioche bun (Trader Joe’s sells excellent ones!) with lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and your choice of sauce. Try tartar sauce, lemon dill aioli, or even Chick-fil-A sauce for a sweet and tangy twist.

Salmon Bowl

Create a nutritious salmon bowl by placing the cooked burger over a base of jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Add roasted vegetables, cucumber slices, shredded carrots, edamame, avocado, and drizzle with soy sauce, teriyaki, or Green Goddess dressing.

Lettuce Wrap (Low-Carb Option)

For a keto-friendly or low-carb meal, wrap your salmon burger in crisp lettuce leaves instead of a bun. Add coleslaw, tomato, and a creamy sauce for a satisfying meal under 200 calories.

Salmon Burger Salad

Break the cooked salmon burger into chunks and serve over mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and your favorite vinaigrette. This makes an excellent high-protein lunch.

Salmon Tacos

Place the salmon burger in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado slices, and cilantro lime crema for delicious fish tacos with a twist.

Protein-Packed Breakfast

Top an English muffin with a salmon burger, a fried egg, and hollandaise sauce for a unique take on eggs Benedict that’s packed with protein and omega-3s.

Salmon Burger Sliders

Cut the burgers in half and serve on slider buns for a party-perfect appetizer or kid-friendly meal option.

Best Toppings and Sauces for Trader Joe’s Salmon Burgers

The right toppings and sauces can transform your air fryer salmon burger from simple to sensational. Here are some winning combinations:

Classic Tartar Sauce: Mix mayonnaise with dill relish, lemon juice, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning. This traditional pairing never disappoints.

Lemon Dill Aioli: Combine mayo, fresh dill, lemon zest, lemon juice, and minced garlic for a bright, herbaceous sauce.

Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Mix mayo with sriracha and a squeeze of lime for a creamy sauce with a kick.

Green Goddess Dressing: This herb-packed dressing (available at Trader Joe’s) adds freshness and pairs beautifully with salmon.

Chimichurri Sauce: Fresh, vibrant chimichurri provides a bold contrast to the mild salmon flavor.

Sweet Chili Sauce: Thai sweet chili sauce adds a sweet and tangy element that complements the richness of salmon perfectly.

Honey Mustard: Mix Dijon mustard with honey for a sweet and tangy combination.

Avocado Spread: Mashed avocado with lime juice and salt creates a creamy, healthy topping.

Perfect Side Dishes for Salmon Burgers

Complete your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with Trader Joe’s air fryer salmon burgers:

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these complement the savory salmon beautifully. Cook them in the air fryer alongside your burgers for an easy one-appliance meal.

Simple Coleslaw: A classic creamy coleslaw or vinegar-based slaw adds crunch and freshness. Mix shredded cabbage with mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans roasted with olive oil and garlic make a nutritious, colorful side.

Quick Pickles: Tangy pickled cucumbers or pickled red onions add brightness and cut through the richness of the salmon.

Cucumber Salad: Fresh cucumber slices tossed with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sesame seeds provide a light, refreshing contrast.

Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy baby potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs create a satisfying, comforting side dish.

Corn on the Cob: Grilled or air-fried corn with butter and seasonings adds sweetness and summer vibes to your meal.

Simple Green Salad: Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette keep things fresh and healthy.

Meal Prep with Trader Joe’s Salmon Burgers

These frozen salmon burgers are perfect for weekly meal prep, helping you stay on track with healthy eating goals even during busy weeks. Here’s how to incorporate them into your meal prep routine:

Prep Sauce in Advance: Make your favorite sauces and dressings on Sunday and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you can quickly dress your salmon burgers throughout the week.

Pre-Cut Vegetables: Wash and chop lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and other toppings in advance. Store them in airtight containers for quick assembly.

Cook in Batches: Air fry all 4 salmon burgers at once (in batches if needed) and store cooked burgers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer.

Portion Grain Bowls: Prepare grain bowl bases with rice, quinoa, or farro, along with vegetables. Add a freshly air-fried or reheated salmon burger for quick lunches.

Freeze for Later: While Trader Joe’s salmon burgers come frozen, you can also buy multiple boxes when they’re on sale and keep them stocked in your freezer for busy weeks.

Cooking Trader Joe’s Salmon Burgers: Alternative Methods

While the air fryer produces the best results with minimal effort, you have several other options for cooking these frozen salmon patties:

Oven Method

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place frozen salmon burgers on the sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.

Skillet Method

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add frozen salmon burgers and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through to 145°F.

Grill Method

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place frozen salmon burgers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, being careful when flipping as they can be delicate.

Microwave Method (Not Recommended)

While the package includes microwave instructions, this method produces the least desirable texture. The burgers can become rubbery and don’t develop any crispiness. Use only as a last resort.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Trader Joe’s Premium Salmon Burgers offer impressive nutritional value, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters:

Per Burger (1 patty):

Calories: 100
Protein: 15g
Total Fat: 3.5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 330mg
Carbohydrates: 3g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin D: 100% Daily Value

Health Benefits:

Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon provides EPA and DHA, which support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation
High-Quality Protein: 15 grams per burger helps build and repair muscle tissue
Excellent Vitamin D Source: Essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation
Low in Calories: At just 100 calories per burger, they fit easily into most diet plans
Low in Saturated Fat: Heart-healthy profile compared to beef burgers
Good Source of Selenium: Important for thyroid function and antioxidant defense

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Frozen Burgers: Keep Trader Joe’s salmon burgers in their original packaging in your freezer until ready to use. They maintain best quality for 6-8 months when stored at 0°F or below.

Storing Cooked Burgers: Place leftover cooked salmon burgers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Let them cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.

Reheating in Air Fryer: The best way to reheat cooked salmon burgers is in the air fryer. Preheat to 350°F and heat for 3-5 minutes until warmed through. This method helps restore some of the crispy texture.

Reheating in Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 45-60 seconds. Note that this method won’t maintain the crispy exterior.

Reheating in Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and heat for 8-10 minutes on a baking sheet.

Serving Cold: Leftover salmon burgers are also delicious served cold over salads or in wraps, so reheating isn’t always necessary.

Comparing Trader Joe’s to Other Frozen Salmon Burgers

Trader Joe’s isn’t the only brand offering frozen salmon burgers, but their Premium Salmon Burgers stand out for several reasons:

Trader Joe’s vs. Generic Brands: Trader Joe’s uses wild-caught Alaskan salmon, while many grocery store brands use farmed salmon. Wild-caught salmon typically has better flavor and higher omega-3 content.

Trader Joe’s vs. Premium Brands: While specialty health food stores sell salmon burgers at $4-5 per patty, Trader Joe’s offers comparable quality at less than $2 per burger.

Ingredient Quality: Trader Joe’s salmon burgers have a relatively short, recognizable ingredient list compared to some brands that include excessive fillers and preservatives.

Size and Portion: At 3.2 ounces per burger, Trader Joe’s portions are substantial enough to be satisfying without being overwhelming.

Taste and Texture: Reviews consistently praise the mild, non-fishy flavor and tender, flaky texture of Trader Joe’s salmon burgers.

Other Trader Joe’s Seafood Burgers to Try

If you love Trader Joe’s salmon burgers, you’ll want to explore their other frozen seafood burger options:

Mahi Mahi Burgers: A lighter, flakier fish option with a mild, sweet flavor. Perfect for those who prefer white fish over salmon.

Shrimp Burgers: Made with real shrimp pieces, these burgers offer a different seafood experience with sweet, delicate flavor.

All of these Trader Joe’s seafood burgers cook beautifully in the air fryer using the same method as the salmon burgers, giving you variety in your weekly meal rotation.

Trader Joe’s Products That Pair Well

Complete your Trader Joe’s salmon burger meal with these complementary products from your favorite grocery store:

Brioche Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that perfectly complement salmon
Organic Arugula: Adds peppery bite to your burger
Organic Spinach and Kale Greek Yogurt Dip: Works as a healthier burger sauce
Sweet Potato Fries: Available in the frozen section, perfect for air frying alongside your burgers
Everything But The Bagel Seasoning: Sprinkle on top of your cooked burger for extra flavor
Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing cucumber-yogurt sauce that pairs beautifully with salmon
Organic Mixed Greens: For building salmon burger bowls
Frozen Organic Brown Rice: A convenient base for salmon bowls

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to thaw Trader Joe’s salmon burgers before air frying? No! In fact, you should never thaw these burgers before cooking. They’re designed to cook from frozen and become too soft and difficult to handle when thawed.

How long do Trader Joe’s salmon burgers take in the air fryer? Cook frozen salmon burgers at 380-400°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Exact timing depends on your air fryer model and the temperature you choose.

Are Trader Joe’s salmon burgers precooked? No, these salmon burgers are raw and must be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F before eating. Never consume them without cooking.

What’s the best temperature for air frying salmon burgers? Most people find 380-390°F to be the sweet spot, though anywhere from 380-400°F works well. Higher temperatures cook faster but require closer monitoring to prevent overcooking.

Can I cook Trader Joe’s salmon burgers from frozen in the oven? Yes! Bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the air fryer produces crispier results with less cooking time.

How many calories are in a Trader Joe’s salmon burger? Each salmon burger contains approximately 100 calories, making them an excellent low-calorie, high-protein meal option.

Are Trader Joe’s salmon burgers gluten-free? The ingredient list doesn’t include wheat or gluten-containing ingredients, but Trader Joe’s doesn’t officially label them as gluten-free. Those with celiac disease should exercise caution or contact Trader Joe’s directly.

Can I season Trader Joe’s salmon burgers? Absolutely! While they’re already seasoned, you can add extra flavor with Old Bay seasoning, lemon pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite spice blend before air frying.

How do I know when salmon burgers are fully cooked? Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F. The exterior should be golden brown and the burger should flake easily.

Can I freeze cooked salmon burgers? Yes, you can freeze cooked salmon burgers for up to 2-3 months. Freeze them on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer from frozen at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

What sauce goes best with salmon burgers? Popular choices include tartar sauce, lemon dill aioli, sriracha mayo, Green Goddess dressing, and chimichurri. The mild salmon flavor pairs well with both creamy and tangy sauces.

Are salmon burgers healthy? Yes! Salmon burgers are high in protein, low in calories, and packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. They’re a much healthier alternative to beef burgers.

Why Air Frying is the Best Method

While you can cook Trader Joe’s salmon burgers several ways, the air fryer method offers distinct advantages:

Crispy Texture: The circulating hot air creates a beautifully crispy exterior that’s difficult to achieve with other methods, especially without added oil.

Speed: Air frying is faster than oven baking, getting dinner on the table 5-10 minutes sooner.

Minimal Oil: Unlike pan-frying, air frying requires just a light spray of oil, keeping the calorie count low and reducing mess.

No Fishy Smell: Air frying produces significantly less odor than stovetop cooking, so your kitchen won’t smell like fish for hours.

Even Cooking: The air fryer’s consistent heat and air circulation prevent the common problem of overcooked edges with a raw center.

Set It and Forget It: Unlike grilling or pan-frying, you don’t need to watch the burgers constantly. Just set the timer and walk away.

Easy Cleanup: One basket to clean versus a greasy pan or grill grates makes air frying the most convenient option.

Budget-Friendly Meal Planning

At less than $2 per serving, Trader Joe’s salmon burgers are one of the most affordable ways to incorporate healthy seafood into your diet. Here’s how to maximize value:

Stock Up During Sales: When Trader Joe’s runs promotions, buy multiple boxes. The burgers store for months in the freezer.

Stretch Your Dollar: Serve salmon burgers over salad or in lettuce wraps instead of buns to save money and calories.

Make It a Complete Meal: Pair with inexpensive sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or simple salad rather than costly takeout sides.

Meal Prep Lunches: Use salmon burgers as the protein in weekly meal prep bowls. At $2 per lunch, it’s dramatically cheaper than eating out.

Skip Restaurant Fish: Restaurant salmon dishes often cost $15-25 per serving. Making salmon burgers at home saves serious money while delivering similar nutrition.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s Salmon Burger Air Fryer recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking quick, healthy, delicious weeknight dinners. These frozen salmon burgers deliver restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making them perfect for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who values convenience without compromising on nutrition.

The combination of wild-caught Alaskan salmon, foolproof air fryer cooking, and endless serving possibilities makes these burgers a freezer staple you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you’re serving them classic burger-style, over nutritious grain bowls, or as part of your weekly meal prep, Trader Joe’s salmon burgers consistently deliver satisfaction.

With just 12-15 minutes of air frying time and 100 calories per burger packed with 15 grams of protein, this is healthy eating made effortless. Stock your freezer, fire up your air fryer, and discover why millions of home cooks have fallen in love with this simple yet spectacular meal solution.