Tuna patties are the culinary equivalent of finding a twenty-dollar bill in your winter coat: unexpected, delightful, and oh-so-satisfying. Imagine sinking your teeth into golden-brown patties that crackle with a crispy exterior while the tender tuna inside bursts with flavor. baked lentil meatballs with tzatziki The aroma wafts through the kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around. These little wonders are not just meals; they’re savory hugs on a plate, perfect for any occasion from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this Tuna Melt Patties recipe.
Speaking of gatherings, I remember the first time I made tuna patties for my friends. Everyone was skeptical at first—who would want to eat fish in patty form? But as soon as those crispy morsels hit the table, they vanished faster than you can say “where’s the ketchup?” These tuna patties are more than just a dish; they’re an experience that brings people together, making them perfect for family dinners or last-minute get-togethers. crispy baked fish recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] Tuna patties are quick and easy to prepare, making lunch or dinner a breeze. They offer a delicious flavor profile thanks to spices and fresh ingredients. Visually appealing with their golden-brown crust, they look fantastic on any plate. Versatile enough to be served as appetizers or main dishes, they fit perfectly into any meal plan. [/info_box]
I vividly recall one particularly lively dinner party where we all took turns attempting to flip the patties without them breaking apart. Spoiler alert: it was chaos! But laughter filled the room as we enjoyed every bite of those crispy treats.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful tuna patties:
Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water or oil for maximum flavor and moisture retention.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to give the patties structure and crunch.
Eggs: Two large eggs will bind everything together beautifully—make sure they’re fresh!
Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a burst of freshness and mild onion flavor.
Mayonnaise: A couple of tablespoons provide creaminess and enhance flavor; don’t skimp on this!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances richness.
Salt and Pepper: Basic but essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste.
Oil for Frying: Use vegetable or olive oil for frying until golden brown; keep it hot!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Classic Coleslaw recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Tuna Mixture: Begin by draining the canned tuna thoroughly to avoid soggy patties. In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna with breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, eggs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix It Up!: Using a fork or your hands (clean ones!), mix until fully combined but don’t overmix; you want some texture from the tuna.
Scoop and Shape Patties: Take about 1/4 cup of the mixture and form it into a patty shape. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick so they cook evenly. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Heat That Oil!: In a large skillet over medium heat, add enough oil to cover the bottom generously. Heat until shimmering but not smoking—this is crucial for that crispy outer layer!
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully add your shaped patties to the hot skillet without crowding. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy; resist flipping too soon!
Dishing It Out!: Once golden brown on both sides, transfer the patties onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges or your favorite dipping sauce—tartar sauce works wonders!
Now you have scrumptious tuna patties ready to impress! Enjoy them fresh out of the pan or save some for later (if they last that long).
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Tuna patties are a delightful way to elevate your canned tuna game. They create a crispy outside and tender inside that’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table. Plus, they can be served with various dips for an added twist. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing all ingredients before forming patties. Then, heat oil in a non-stick pan and cook until golden brown on each side. This sequence ensures even cooking and flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap canned tuna for salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Add spices like paprika or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile of your tuna patties.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tuna patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat for optimal crispiness without losing texture.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use fresh breadcrumbs instead of store-bought for better texture and flavor. Make sure the oil is hot before adding patties to avoid greasiness. Let the mixture rest for ten minutes; it helps the flavors meld beautifully. [/info_box]
Sharing my first experience making tuna patties brings back fond memories of friends raving about them at a casual gathering, proving that simple recipes can create lasting impressions. ultimate steakhouse burger.
FAQ
How do I make tuna patties crispy?
Add breadcrumbs and ensure your oil is hot before cooking for perfect crispiness.
Can I freeze tuna patties?
Yes, freeze cooked patties in an airtight container for up to three months.
What can I serve with tuna patties?
Pair them with tartar sauce, avocado dip, or fresh salad for a complete meal experience. halloumi avocado toast.

Tuna Patties
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Tuna patties are a delightful twist on a classic dish, offering a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior that will have everyone coming back for more. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these easy-to-make patties bring friends and family together over delicious bites. With high-quality ingredients and versatile serving options, they can be enjoyed as appetizers or main dishes. Get ready to impress your guests with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) can of high-quality tuna, drained
- 1 cup plain or seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (vegetable or olive oil)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, eggs, mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain texture.
- Shape the mixture into patties about 1/2 inch thick and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Fry the patties in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy; do not overcrowd the pan.
- Transfer cooked patties to paper towels to drain excess oil and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (60g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 55mg