Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers

Salmon burgers are a deliciously healthy way to add more fish and omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. With wild-caught salmon patties packed with flavor and nutrition, these salmon cakes make for a satisfying meal any night of the week. Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers are among the most popular pre-made salmon burger options at grocery stores across the country.

If you’re considering trying Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers for quick and easy dinners, this comprehensive buying guide has all the details you need to know before purchasing. We’ll cover where to buy them, ingredients, nutrition facts, cooking instructions, tips for preparing them different ways, how they compare to other brands, and so much more. Read on for the ultimate Wellsley Farms salmon burger resource!

An Overview of Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers

Wellsley Farms salmon burgers are pre-formed, raw salmon cakes that come frozen in resealable plastic packaging. They are an affordable and convenient way to enjoy the nutrition of wild salmon without the fuss of breading and shaping the patties yourself.

Wellsley Farms is a store brand for many grocery chains, including Costco, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Food Lion, Giant, and Harris Teeter. The burgers are round, about the size of a hamburger patty, and typically sold in packs of 6 or 8. They usually come in around 100 calories per burger with 12-15g of protein.

Some key advantages of these pre-made salmon patties are:

• Made with wild-caught salmon – you get the healthy omega-3s of salmon without harmful contaminants often found in farm-raised varieties.
• No breading or fillers – the burgers are 100% salmon, no unnecessary carbs or filler ingredients.
• Pre-portioned – perfect patties sized for sandwiches, salads, and other meals.
• Quick and easy – no prep work, just thaw and cook. Great for busy weeknights.
• Budget-friendly – especially compared to buying fresh salmon fillets.

Now let’s get into the details on ingredients, purchasing, prep, and how these burgers stack up against other brands.

Wellsley Farms Salmon Burger Ingredients

Here is the typical ingredient list found in Wellsley Farms wild salmon burgers:

• Wild Alaskan salmon
• Water
• Dextrose
• Natural flavors
• Potato starch
• Salt
• Yeast extract
• Contains less than 2% of dextrin, sodium phosphates, smoke flavoring.

The main component is wild salmon, sourced from the pristine waters of Alaska. There are no concerning additives or preservatives. The natural flavors and yeast extract likely provide some umami richness. The potato starch and dextrins act as binders to hold the patties together.

Overall, the ingredient deck is simple, natural, and high quality. You’re getting mostly real, nutrient-dense salmon. There are no unnecessary fillers or unhealthy additives. This makes Wellsley Farms salmon patties a smart choice over heavily processed frozen seafood options.

Where to Buy Wellsley Farms Pre-Made Salmon Burgers

Since Wellsley Farms is a private label brand, the salmon burgers are available exclusively at the grocery store chains that sell this brand. Here are some of the major retailers offering Wellsley Farms salmon patties:

• Costco – Sold in packs of 16 or 32 burgers. Requires a Costco membership.
• BJ’s Wholesale Club – Another warehouse chain selling them in larger pack sizes. Also requires a paid membership.
• Food Lion – Available at the seafood freezer case in 6 or 8 patty packs.
• Giant, Martin’s, Giant Eagle – Northeastern grocery chains where 6-8 burger packets are stocked.
• Harris Teeter – Select locations of this chain carry 6-burger bags.

You can also check your local grocery store freezer section, as some independent retailers may offer Wellsley Farms products. The most cost-effective option is to purchase the multi-pack family sizes from Costco, BJ’s, or Sam’s Club if you have access to a wholesale membership.

Wild-Caught Salmon in Wellsley Farms Burgers

One of the biggest benefits of Wellsley Farms salmon patties is that they are made with sustainable wild salmon, not farmed. The burgers are produced using only wild Alaskan salmon fillets, according to the ingredient labels.

Wild salmon is superior to farmed for a few important reasons:

• More omega-3 fatty acids – Wild salmon eat a natural diet high in omega-3s, while farmed are fed processed high-carb feed.
• Lower contamination risk – Open ocean environments have less contaminants than crowded fish farm pens.
• Supports sustainability – Wild fisheries are better managed to prevent overfishing.

By choosing Wellsley Farms salmon burgers made with wild salmon, you can enjoy all the healthy fats, protein, and nutrients salmon provide, while supporting responsible fishing practices.

Cooking Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties in an Air Fryer

Air fryers provide a quick and healthy way to cook frozen salmon burgers with a crispy texture. Here is a simple process for air frying Wellsley Farms salmon cakes:

1. Pre-heat air fryer to 390°F.
2. Thaw salmon patties overnight in fridge or microwave for 2-3 minutes until soft (but still icy in center).
3. Brush patties lightly with oil or cooking spray. Season as desired.
4. Cook 3-4 minutes on each side, until browned and salmon is opaque throughout.
5. Flip occasionally while cooking to prevent burning.
6. Internal temperature should reach 145°F.

The benefit of air frying compared to oven baking is you don’t need oil to crispen the outside. Air frying also cooks the burgers more quickly than oven baking. Enjoy your air-fried salmon cakes on buns, over greens, or with fresh veggies!

Are Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers Gluten-Free?

Good news for anyone eating a gluten-free diet – Wellsley Farms salmon burgers are gluten-free! The only ingredients are wild salmon, spices, and minimal binding agents like potato starch. There are no gluten-containing grains used in the production of these salmon cakes.

Always double check the packaging when purchasing any product labeled gluten-free. Allergens can sometimes change. But Wellsley Farms salmon patties have always been a gluten-free food, making them safe for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Eating gluten-free does limit food options, especially for quick frozen foods and prepared meals. Fortunately, with Wellsley Farms salmon burgers, you have a tasty, nutritious gluten-free dinner option ready in under 30 minutes. Enjoy these burgers on gluten-free buns or grain-free cauliflower thins for a satisfying gluten-free meal.

Nutritional Profile of Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties

Here are the typical nutritional facts found on Wellsley Farms wild salmon burgers:

• Serving Size: 1 patty (113g)
• Calories: 110
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbs: 2g
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.4g

The key healthy nutrients provided by Wellsley Farms salmon cakes are:

• High-Quality Protein – Each 4-ounce burger delivers 15g protein, providing all the essential amino acids.
• Heart-Healthy Omega-3s – With over 1g of omega-3 fats per serving, these support cardiovascular and brain health.
• Sustainably Sourced – Wild salmon have more nutritional density than farmed.
• Low-Carb and Sugar-Free – Only 2g net carbs and no added sugars.

This nutritional profile makes Wellsley Farms salmon patties an excellent choice for low-carb, keto, paleo, or diabetes-friendly diets. The burgers provide protein, healthy fats, and nutrients without unnecessary carbs.

How Many Salmon Burgers per Package from Wellsley Farms?

Wellsley Farms salmon burger pack sizes can vary depending on where you purchase them. Here is how many patties typically come in each package:

• 6 count – This packet size is sold at most grocery store chains like Food Lion, Giant, etc. Perfect for 1-2 people.
• 8 count – Another commonly available size, great for feeding 3-4 people.
• 16 or 32 count – The bulk family packs found at Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale. Best value overall.
• 4 count – Occasionally you may find smaller 4-burger packets. Convenient single servings.

The most affordable option per patty is definitely the bulk case pack from the warehouse chains like Costco. However, if you don’t have access to a membership-based retailer, the 6 or 8 count bags are the next best deal. And the smaller packs ensure no burgers go to waste if cooking for just one or two.

Pre-Cooked vs. Raw Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties

Wellsley Farms salmon burgers are sold raw, not pre-cooked. Like other raw seafood and meat products, they require thorough cooking to an internal temperature of 145°F before eating. Be sure to follow the microwave, oven baking, or stovetop directions carefully when preparing them.

While selling them raw allows for a longer shelf life during frozen storage, it does mean these salmon cakes require several more minutes of cooking than a fully pre-cooked burger would. Just account for the extra cooking time needed when meal planning.

The benefit of raw over pre-cooked is you have more control over the texture and doneness. Cook them just until opaque in the center to maintain a tender, moist burger. Going beyond the recommended cook times can lead to dry, rubbery salmon patties.

How to Cook Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers on the Grill

If you want to add delicious charred flavor to your salmon cakes, grilling is a fantastic cooking method. Here’s how to grill Wellsley Farms salmon burgers to perfection:

1. Thaw burgers in the refrigerator overnight. Oil grates lightly.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
3. Brush patties with olive oil or melted butter. Season as desired.
4. Grill salmon cakes 4-5 minutes per side until browned with grill marks. Flip once only.
5. Move to indirect heat if they start to burn. Grill until 145°F internal temp.
6. Baste occasionally with extra glaze or sauce for added flavor.
7. Rest cooked burgers 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy on buns or salad.

Salmon burgers pair especially well with soy-ginger glaze, teriyaki, mango salsa, or lemon-dill sauce. Get creative with your own marinades too. Grilling adds amazing depth of flavor you don’t get from pan frying.

Wellsley Farms Salmon Burger Calories per Patty

Each Wellsley Farms wild salmon cake contains around 110 calories per 113g patty, according to the nutrition labels. However, calorie counts can vary slightly based on:

• Exact patty weight – 4oz vs 5oz burgers will differ in calories.
• Added oils/fats for cooking – Extra fats increase calories.
• Different production batches – Counts can fluctuate.

But on average, you can expect approximately 110 calories in one Wellsley Farms salmon burger patty. This makes them a lean, low-calorie protein source compared to beef or turkey burgers.

To reduce the calories even further, opt for healthy cooking methods like grilling, broiling, or air frying instead of deep frying. You can enjoy two salmon patties with veggies for a meal around 300 calories.

Are Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers Keto and Low Carb Diet Friendly?

Salmon burgers are a fantastic choice if you’re following a ketogenic or low-carb high-fat diet. And Wellsley Farms salmon patties are a convenient option you can buy ready-to-cook. Here’s why they’re an ideal keto-friendly food:

• High protein and healthy fats keep you feeling full.
• Wild salmon is naturally low carb, with just 2g net carbs per burger.
• No sugars, starches, or processed ingredients.
• Omega-3s support the fat burning goals of keto diets.
• Requires no special low-carb substitutes or grocery trips.

To make a complete keto meal, serve the salmon cakes over greens instead of a bun, and pair with high-fat sides like avocado and olive oil. Wellsley Farms patties check all the boxes for convenient and delicious low-carb dinners.

Reviews of Wellsley Farms Pre-Made Salmon Patties

Checking customer product reviews can provide helpful insight before purchasing. Overall, Wellsley Farms salmon burgers receive mostly positive feedback across retailers. Here are some common pros and cons mentioned:

Pros:

• Good flavor and texture
• Holds up well during cooking
• Seems like high quality salmon
• Adds variety from typical beef burgers
• Easy to make, good value

Cons:

• Can be slightly fishy odor when cooking
  -Burger edges fall apart if not careful flipping
• Packaging allows frost to develop
• Some wish they were fully cooked

In general, most reviews suggest these are tasty, affordable salmon patties that require minimal prep work. They offer an easy way to enjoy salmon cakes at home. Just take care when handling and flipping the thawed raw patties. Overall, a quality convenient salmon burger option.

Are Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers Dairy Free?

For those with dairy allergies or on vegan diets, you will be happy to know that Wellsley Farms salmon burgers are 100% dairy free. The only ingredients are wild salmon, seasonings, and potato starch. There are absolutely no milk, cheese, yogurt or other dairy products contained in them.

Always check labels to be sure, as formulations can change. But Wellsley Farms has always produced their salmon cakes as completely dairy-free. No need to worry about lactose or casein.

That means you can enjoy these convenient salmon patties dairy-free on their own. Or pair them with dairy-free sides like roasted potatoes or salad with oil and vinegar. Those avoiding milk products have fewer convenient frozen meal choices, so these burgers are a great dairy-free option.

How Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers Compare to Costco’s Brand

Costco sells their own exclusive brand of salmon burgers, Kirkland Signature. How do the Wellsley Farms patties sold at other stores compare? Here’s the rundown:

• Ingredients – Both made with wild Alaskan salmon as first ingredient. Kirkland has added breadcrumbs.
• Price – Kirkland slightly cheaper per patty due to bulk pack. Wellsley more affordable at regular grocery stores.
• Taste – Most find both brands equally delicious and flavorful.
• Nutrition – Comparable in protein, fats, carbs, and calories.
• Appearance – Kirkland patties are larger, rounder shape than oblong Wellsley farms.

While the Kirkland brand available at Costco is slightly more cost effective, the Wellsley Farms salmon cakes offer a nearly identical product at your everyday mainstream grocery store. It comes down to accessibility and price. Both deliver quality wild salmon burgers conveniently.

Baking Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties in the Oven

Oven-baking is a healthy hands-off way to cook frozen salmon patties. Here are simple instructions for baking Wellsley Farms salmon burgers:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Arrange patties on sheet without touching. Brush lightly with oil or cooking spray.
3. Bake 12-14 minutes until browned on edges and opaque in center. Flip halfway through.
4. Insert a thermometer to check 145°F internal temperature when done.
5. Broil 2-3 minutes at the end for crisper tops, if desired.
6. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Baking gives you evenly cooked salmon burgers, especially if cooking a batch. And cleanup is easier than stovetop cooking. Roasted veggies pair nicely for a full oven-baked meal. Enjoy these baked salmon cakes on their own or in sandwiches and tacos.

Are Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties Seasoned or Plain?

While plain salmon patties would seem bland, Wellsley Farms salmon burgers are pre-seasoned with natural flavors in the mix. Exact seasonings vary across production batches, but expect a savory, smoky salmon taste.

Some examples of seasonings often used in packaged salmon cakes include:

• Lemon pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dill
• Cajun seasoning
• Sea salt
• Smoked paprika

So while they aren’t heavily seasoned or spiced, the natural flavorings do provide subtle depth. You can always add extra spices or glazes to the patties when cooking. But the burgers have a mild, pleasant seasoned taste right out of the package.

How Much Does a Box of Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers Cost?

Prices for Wellsley Farms salmon burgers will range depending on a few factors:

• Location – Regional pricing differences between grocery chains
• Quantity – Bulk packs with more patties tend to cost less per burger
• Promotions – Look for sales prices or digital coupons when available
• Grocery tier – More budget chains like Food Lion will be cheaper than upscale markets
• Inflation – Food costs continue to rise overall year after year

But on average expect to pay:

• 6 count box – $8 to $12
• 8 count box – $10 to $15
• 16 or 32 count packs – Around $1 per salmon patty

Compared to fresh salmon fillets or making everything from scratch, Wellsley Farms pre-made salmon cakes provide convenience and portion control at a reasonable price point for most shoppers.

Where to Buy Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties

In addition to major grocery store chains, Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers are also carried at BJ’s Wholesale Club. The warehouse chain stocks them in the club-sized pack sizes for families and bulk shoppers looking for value.

As a BJ’s member, you can find Wellsley Farms salmon patties sold in quantities like:

• 16 count boxes
• 32 count packs
• 48 count packages

BJ’s also frequently runs promotions on Wellsley Farms frozen seafood items. So keep an eye out for:

• Manufacturer’s coupons
• Dollar off deals
• Buy one, get one free offers
• Member Appreciation sales

The bulk quantities at BJ’s Wholesale let you stock up on salmon burgers at a discount for the whole month. Take advantage of these extra savings to keep delicious, healthy salmon patties readily available in your freezer.

Best Sauces and Toppings for Salmon Burgers

While Wellsley Farms salmon cakes have flavor on their own, certain sauces and toppings can take them to the next level. Here are some tasty condiment ideas:

• Tartar sauce – Classic pairing with the rich fishiness of salmon.
• Creamy ranch – Cool contrast to the salmon’s warmth.
• Spicy mayo – Sriracha, chipotle, or cajun mayo adds kick.
• Pesto – Fresh basil and garlic nicely complement the burgers.
• Mango salsa – Fruity, fresh accent to the savory salmon.
• Lemon dill – Bright lemony sauce is a refreshing choice.
• Teriyaki glaze – Sweet and salty teriyaki is always a crowd pleaser.
• Honey mustard – Sweet creamy blend suits the oily salmon.

Get creative mixing your own custom sauces too! The options with salmon are endless.

Freezing Leftover Wellsley Farms Salmon Patties

Like most raw seafood, Wellsley Farms salmon burgers freeze exceptionally well for enjoying later. Follow these tips for freezing leftover salmon patties:

• Let cooked patties cool fully before freezing, about 1 hour.
• Place patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until hard.
• Transfer frozen patties to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• Remove as much air as possible and seal.
• Label bag with contents and date frozen for easy identification.
• Properly frozen salmon patties maintain quality for 3-4 months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply thaw frozen burgers in the refrigerator or microwave until able to break apart. Then cook by your preferred method like baking or pan frying until heated through. Enjoy the convenience of frozen salmon cakes ready anytime!

The Bottom Line on Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers

When you want the nutritious benefits of salmon in a fast and convenient form, Wellsley Farms Salmon Burgers are a quality choice worth trying. Made with sustainably caught wild salmon packed with protein, healthy fats and nutrients, these pre-formed patties provide delicious flavor with no prep work required.

This buying guide covers everything you need to know, from where to find them and saving money to cooking instructions and real customer reviews. Now that you’re a salmon burger expert, get ready to enjoy tender, flaky salmon cakes that will become a regular in your freezer! Wellsley Farms makes it easy to work more of this tasty oily fish into your diet any night of the week.