Tilapia Fish Burgers

Fish Burgers probably aren't what you think of immediately when it comes to a burger, but you will be shocked by how delicious these simple fish burgers can be. Flavored with ingredients you already have in your pantry, these simple burgers are full of flavor and seriously good.

Burgers are something I can almost always get everyone to agree on for dinner.  Fish not so much. So a fish burger is a happy compromise that usually works for everyone. I decided to use tilapia for this burger since it's inexpensive and I don't feel like I am "wasting" it on a burger recipe.

However another sturdy white fish or salmon would work great as well depending on what you like best.  Topped with some fresh avocado, tomatoes, and sprouts - it's a delicious, lighter burger you'll love.

Since tilapia can be on the bland side, it's important to add tons of flavor to your burgers. In this case, I used a combination of garlic, Dijon mustard, paprika, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper to kick up the flavors.

However, you could really spice them up any way you want. I have made blackened fish burgers with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder and simple lemon pepper burgers with lemon zest, Parmesan, and tons of black pepper.

Think of tilapia like you would ground turkey or chicken - it's kind of a blank canvas you can spice up any way you like.

In terms of topping these burgers, normally I just go with something simple like some sliced avocado, fresh tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce or sprouts.

When I am feeling more ambitious, I will whip up a simple yogurt dressing or lightened-up tartar sauce to dollop on top. For the yogurt dressing, I usually just add crushed garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh herbs to full fat yogurt.

For a lightened up tartar sauce, mix equal parts yogurt, low fat mayonnaise, and relish.

How do you make a fish burger?

One of the questions I hear most is how to make a fish burger using any type of fish or even shrimp.There are two basic methods for creating fish burgers. You can either create a fish patty with a food processor or you can simply bread a piece of fish to use as a burger. Here's how to make both:

• Fish patty: The basic recipe for a fish patty will be one pound of fish/shrimp, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 egg. Then you add any kinds of spices or seasoning you like. Old Bay is a good option if you want a flavorful seafood seasoning. Pulse the fish in a food processor until it is just chopped. Combine with the egg, breadcrumbs, and spices. Form into patties and place in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes so the patties firm up.
• Breaded fish filet: To make more a breaded fish filet, you simply need to dip the dish into an egg wash and then press into breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will be the crispiest option and you can season them with just about anything. Then cook the filet in a hot skillet with a touch of oil or bake it at 400 degrees on a wire rack for 8-10 minutes.

Tips and Recipe Ideas

Follow these tips to make delicious fish burgers every time.

• Use different fish: While I normally use tilapia for these burgers since it is affordable, almost any fish will work. I have made these with salmon, cod, haddock, and even with shrimp.
• Seasoning options:You can flavor these fish burgers so many different ways. I love the classic combination of spices I included below but you can also mix things up to create your own combination. Try making things spicy with chili powder, smoky with cumin, or brighten up the flavors with lemon or orange zest. 
• Fish burger toppings:You can go crazy when it comes to topping these burgers, so get creative. Avocado, tomatoes, and sprouts are simple and delicious toppings. You can also make your own homemade tartar sauce and yogurt spread. And if you like spice, Sriracha is always a good option.

Looking for more healthy burger recipes?

• Roasted Poblano Cheeseburger
• Easy Vegetarian Salsa Burgers
• Jalapeno Cheddar Turkey Burgers
• Chickpea Feta Burgers
• Turkey Apple Burgers
• Double Bean Burgers

Here are some of the products and tools I used to make these burgers.

• Food processor: I have had this food processor for years and absolutely love it. The blades have never dulled and the engine still works great after years of use. Plus I love all the attachments, it makes for very easy vegetable slicing and dicing.