Introduction:

These Tuna Melt Patties are crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside! With a combination of savory tuna, melty cheddar, and zesty Dijon mustard, they make a delicious snack, lunch, or dinner. Perfect on a bun or served with tartar sauce and lemon for extra zing!

Ingredients:

2 cans of tuna, drained (5 oz each)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon butter or oil (for frying)

Instructions:

Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, mix the tuna, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, egg, breadcrumbs, cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley until well combined.
Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4-6 equal patties (about ½ inch thick). If the mixture is too soft, refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Cook the Patties: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm on a bun with lettuce and tomato, or enjoy as-is with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Variation:

Swap Cheddar for Mozzarella: For a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth center, you can swap the sharp cheddar cheese for mozzarella. Mozzarella will melt more stringy and stretchy, creating a cheesy surprise inside each patty. If you love a cheesy bite, this is a great alternative that adds a whole new texture to the patty.
Add Chopped Green Onions: To give your patties a little extra bite and a burst of freshness, try adding chopped green onions. The onions will provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a bit of crunch. This variation adds a bit of zing that contrasts nicely with the creamy tuna mixture.
Use Crushed Crackers Instead of Breadcrumbs: If you’re looking for a different texture, crushed crackers can replace the breadcrumbs. This will make the patties crunchier on the outside and give them a subtle buttery flavor. Use saltine crackers for a classic option, or try using Ritz crackers for a slightly sweeter twist.
Add a Touch of Lemon Zest: For a burst of citrus freshness, add a teaspoon of lemon zest into the tuna mixture. The zest will infuse the patties with a zesty, refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the tuna and cheese.

Cooking Notes:

Chill the Mixture Before Cooking: If you find that your mixture is too soft to form patties, or if it’s falling apart when you cook it, refrigerating the mixture for about 15 minutes can make all the difference. The cold helps the fats in the mixture solidify, making it easier to shape into firm patties and preventing them from falling apart in the skillet.
Medium Heat is Key for Crispy Patties: To achieve a perfectly golden brown exterior, cook the patties on medium heat. Too high a heat can result in burnt outsides with a raw interior, while too low a heat will cause the patties to cook too slowly and absorb more oil. Medium heat allows the patties to crisp up without losing their tender inside.
Check for Doneness: The patties should be golden brown and crispy on both sides after 3-4 minutes per side. To ensure they’re fully cooked, you can cut one open to check for any uncooked tuna or wet batter. The inside should be firm and cooked through. If necessary, adjust the heat slightly and cook for an additional minute or two.
Frying with Butter vs. Oil: Butter adds a delicious richness and golden color to the patties, but it has a lower smoke point than oil, so it may burn at higher cooking temperatures. You can use a mix of butter and oil to get the best of both worlds—oil helps prevent burning while butter adds flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve on a Bun with Lettuce and Tomato: For a complete meal, place the tuna melt patties on a bun, and top with fresh lettuce and slices of tomato. This adds crunch and freshness that balances out the rich, crispy patties. You can also add some pickles or avocado for extra flavor. The creamy avocado adds a nice contrast to the savory tuna patties, while pickles give a tangy kick.
Enjoy with Tartar Sauce or a Lemon Wedge: For an extra burst of flavor, serve your tuna melt patties with tartar sauce. The creamy and tangy sauce complements the patties perfectly. Alternatively, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness.
Serve as an Appetizer or Snack: These tuna melt patties are perfect for parties or as a snack. Make them smaller and serve with toothpicks or a dipping sauce like spicy mayo or even sweet chili sauce for a fun twist. They’re a crowd-pleasing option that’s easy to share and enjoy with friends.
Pair with a Side Salad or Fries: For a more filling meal, pair your tuna patties with a side salad or crispy fries. A side of coleslaw can also work well, as the creamy and crunchy texture complements the patties’ richness. If you’re looking for something lighter, a fresh cucumber and avocado salad would pair wonderfully.

Tips:

Use Fresh Tuna for a More Intense Flavor: While canned tuna is convenient, using fresh tuna (preferably seared or cooked) will give you a more intense tuna flavor. This makes a big difference in the final taste of your patties. Simply flake the cooked tuna into smaller pieces, and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Make Ahead for Easy Meals: You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the patties to firm up. When you’re ready to cook them, just heat your skillet and cook as usual for a quick and easy meal.
Don’t Overwork the Mixture: When mixing the ingredients together, be careful not to overwork the mixture. Overmixing can result in tough, dense patties. Just mix everything until combined, and stop when the mixture holds together. This will keep your patties light and tender.
Experiment with Spices and Herbs: Feel free to get creative with the spices! You can add cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or Italian seasoning for an herby twist. Fresh dill or thyme can also be a great addition for a different flavor profile. Taste the mixture before cooking and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Reheat Leftovers with Care: Leftover tuna patties can be stored in the fridge and reheated the next day. For best results, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them soggy.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 18-20 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Patty):

Calories: 180
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 500mg

(Note: These values are estimates and will vary depending on exact ingredients used. If you’re tracking calories or specific nutrients, it’s always good to use a nutrition calculator.)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these patties with fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes! Using fresh tuna will give your patties a more robust flavor. Simply cook the fresh tuna (you can sear or bake it) and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. Fresh tuna also works wonderfully if you prefer a lighter, fresher taste compared to canned tuna.
Can I freeze the patties?
Absolutely! After forming the patties, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them for 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can cook them straight from frozen—just be sure to cook them a little longer to ensure they’re heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Swiss for different textures and flavors. Keep in mind that mozzarella will give a gooey, stretchy interior, while Swiss will add a mild nuttiness. Each cheese will change the overall flavor profile, so feel free to experiment!
Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
Yes, if you want a lighter version, you can bake the patties instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
What can I serve these patties with?
Tuna melt patties are great served on a bun as a sandwich with fresh veggies like lettuce and tomato. They also pair wonderfully with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon on the side. If you want to keep things lighter, enjoy them with a fresh salad or a side of crispy fries.

Conclusion:

Tuna Melt Patties are a deliciously simple, yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re craving a crispy snack, a light lunch, or a full dinner, these patties are versatile and easy to make. The combination of tender tuna, melted cheese, and the crispy exterior is always a hit. Plus, with the flexibility to swap ingredients and customize to your taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy experimenting with different variations, serving suggestions, and tips to make these tuna patties truly your own! They’re a great way to turn a pantry staple into a fun, flavorful meal. Happy cooking!

Tuna Melt Patties

Author: Avery
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4-6 patties 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans of tuna, drained (5 oz each)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon butter or oil (for frying)

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, mix the tuna, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, egg, breadcrumbs, cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley until well combined.
Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4-6 equal patties (about ½ inch thick). If the mixture is too soft, refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Cook the Patties: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm on a bun with lettuce and tomato, or enjoy as-is with tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon.

Notes

Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a gooey center.
Add chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 patty
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: tuna patties, tuna melt, crispy tuna cakes, cheesy tuna, fried patties