Tuna patties are little savory cakes made from canned tuna mixed with simple ingredients like breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. They are shaped into patties and cooked until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, while soft and flavorful inside. Think of them like a mini tuna burger without the bun easy to make, delicious, and perfect for busy days.
Tuna patties are a great way to use canned tuna in a fun and different way. They’re crispy, tasty, and can be served for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Kids love them because they’re easy to hold and dip, and adults love them because they’re quick, affordable, and packed with protein.
You Should Try the Tuna Patties
You should try tuna patties because they’re quick to make, super customizable, and perfect for picky eaters. If you want something that feels like a restaurant meal but can be made in your own kitchen in under 20 minutes, tuna patties are the answer. They are also a great way to use pantry ingredients you already have, like canned tuna, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Another reason to try tuna patties is that they are a healthy option that still tastes like a treat. You can make them with simple ingredients, and they’re a great source of protein and omega-3s. They’re also easy to make in large batches and freeze for later, so you always have a quick meal ready.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients you’ll need for Tuna Patties
Here is everything you need to make Tuna Patties:
- 2 cans 5 oz each tuna, drained
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper optional
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or regular mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions
How to Make Tuna Patties
Step 1
First, mix the drained tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper if using, mayonnaise, mustard, and spices together in a medium bowl until everything is evenly combined.
Step 2
Next, scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, then repeat until all the mixture is used. After shaping the patties, place them on a plate and refrigerate for about 10 minutes so they stay together while cooking.Then, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it is hot.
Step 3
Once the pan is hot, place the patties in the skillet and cook them for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 4
Finally, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil, and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
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Kitchen equipment you will need :
Before you start, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plate
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Paper towels
Tips and Variation Ideas
Use leftover tuna salad: If you already have tuna salad made, you can mix it with breadcrumbs and egg to make patties in just a few minutes.
Make them crispy: Add a little extra breadcrumbs or cook them a bit longer to make the outside extra crunchy.
Add veggies: Finely chopped carrots, peas, or corn can make the patties more colorful and healthy.
No frying option: You can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I serve with this Tuna Patties ?
I often enjoy this Tuna Patties with a simple salad and some delicious drinks like fruit juice or lemonade for extra refreshment.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I freeze tuna patties ?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag.
How long do tuna patties last in the fridge ?
They last up to 3 days in an airtight container.
How do I make tuna patties crispy ?
Cook them a little longer on each side and use a hot skillet with enough oil.
Can I add vegetables to the patties ?
Yes, finely chopped carrots, peas, or corn are great additions.
Tuna Patties
Course: Main Dish, Lunch, DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes10
minutes250
kcal20
minutesTuna patties are quick and easy crispy cakes made from canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and simple seasonings. They cook in just minutes and make a delicious lunch or dinner that kids and adults both love.
Ingredients
2 cans 5 oz each tuna, drained
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper optional
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or regular mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions
Directions
- First, mix the drained tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, bell pepper if using, mayonnaise, mustard, and spices together in a medium bowl until everything is evenly combined.
- Next, scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture and shape it into a small patty, then repeat until all the mixture is used. After shaping the patties, place them on a plate and refrigerate for about 10 minutes so they stay together while cooking.Then, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it is hot.
- Once the pan is hot, place the patties in the skillet and cook them for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Finally, remove the patties from the pan and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil, and serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Drain tuna well so the patties don’t become too wet and fall apart.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan cook in batches for even browning.
- Add chopped parsley or green onions for extra freshness.
