Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tuna patties are simple to make, and they deliver a big punch of flavor. The crispy outside contrasts perfectly with the soft and savory interior, making them irresistible. They’re versatile, too! Whether you dip them in ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce or serve them as a sandwich, these tuna patties are always a hit. Plus, they come together in just 25 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy days.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 10 tablespoons Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 3 tablespoons diced onion
- 1 pinch ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
directions
- Gather all ingredients.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and lemon juice together. Stir in the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese to form a paste.
- Fold in the drained tuna and diced onion until well combined. Season with black pepper.
- Use your hands to shape the tuna mixture into 8 patties, each about 1 inch thick.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in the hot oil for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy!
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños to the tuna mixture for some heat.
- Herb-infused: Add fresh or dried herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme for extra flavor.
- Cheese lovers: Mix in more cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a gooey twist.
- Vegetable boost: Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
storage/reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze patties for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop in a skillet with a little oil to crisp them back up.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Make sure to cook and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. How do I make the patties more flavorful?
Adding seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a squeeze of hot sauce can elevate the flavor.
4. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the Italian-seasoned bread crumbs if you have dietary restrictions.
5. Can I add vegetables to the tuna patties?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach would work well in the mixture.
6. How thick should the patties be?
Aim for patties that are about 1 inch thick. This ensures they cook through while still developing a crispy outer layer.
7. Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
8. What can I serve with tuna patties?
Tuna patties pair well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or served in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato.
9. Can I use a different oil to fry the patties?
Yes, you can use olive oil, canola oil, or avocado oil if you prefer.
10. Are tuna patties a good meal prep option?
Yes, they’re perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for later.
Conclusion
These Easy Tuna Patties are a simple, quick, and delicious way to turn a can of tuna into a flavorful, satisfying meal. Whether served as a snack, sandwich, or with your favorite sides, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, they’re customizable and can be made in just 25 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy days or last-minute meals.
Easy Tuna Patties
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Quick and flavorful, these Easy Tuna Patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A perfect meal for busy days or a light lunch.
Ingredients
2 eggs
2 teaspoons lemon juice
10 tablespoons Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
3 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
3 tablespoons diced onion
1 pinch ground black pepper
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs and lemon juice together. Stir in the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese to form a paste.
- Fold in the drained tuna and diced onion until well combined. Season with black pepper.
- Use your hands to shape the tuna mixture into 8 patties, each about 1 inch thick.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties in the hot oil for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Mix in fresh or dried herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme for extra flavor.
Use mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a gooey twist.
Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
