Tuna Melt Patties

Tuna melt patties served on a plate with toppings

why make this recipe

Tuna Melt Patties are quick, cheap, and full of flavor. They give you protein and a melty, cheesy bite. You can make them fast for lunch or dinner. They work on bread, muffins, or with a salad.

introduction

These patties mix canned tuna with cheese, breadcrumbs, and simple seasonings. You shape them, pan-fry until golden, and get a crispy outside with a soft, cheesy center. They are easy to change to your taste and cook in one pan.

how to make Tuna Melt Patties

Ingredients :

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)

Directions :

  1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Add Cheese & Shape Patties: Stir in shredded cheese and green onions. Form the mixture into 4-5 patties.
  3. Cook the Patties: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Serve & Enjoy: Serve on toasted bread, English muffins, or alongside a fresh salad. For an extra cheesy finish, top with cheese and place under the broiler for a minute.

how to serve Tuna Melt Patties

Place a patty on toasted bread or an English muffin. Add a slice of tomato or lettuce if you like. Serve with pickles, tartar sauce, or a simple green salad. You can also eat them on their own with lemon wedges.

how to store Tuna Melt Patties

Cool the patties completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven so they stay crispy.

tips to make Tuna Melt Patties

  • Drain the tuna very well so patties are not soggy.
  • Don’t overmix; stop when ingredients are combined.
  • Chill the shaped patties 10–15 minutes so they hold shape while cooking.
  • Cook on medium heat so the inside heats without burning the outside.
  • Use a nonstick skillet or a little extra butter if needed.
  • For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.

variation (if any)

  • Keto: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
  • Spicy: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chopped jalapeño.
  • Herb version: Add chopped parsley or dill.
  • Baked: Place patties on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

FAQs

Q: Can I use tuna in water or oil?
A: Yes. Tuna in water is lighter; tuna in oil gives richer flavor. Drain well either way.

Q: Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
A: Yes. Mix and form patties, then keep them in the fridge for a day before cooking.

Q: Can I freeze before cooking?
A: Yes. Freeze shaped patties on a tray, then move to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few minutes per side.

Q: Are these gluten-free?
A: Not with regular breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free crumbs or almond flour to make them gluten-free.

Q: How do I keep them from falling apart?
A: Make sure tuna is drained and patties are chilled before cooking. Use one egg and enough crumbs to bind.

Conclusion

Try a low-carb twist with the detailed Keto Tuna Melt Patties guide at Keto Tuna Melt Patties – LowCarb Abode for almond-flour options and tips. For another simple method and more tips on tuna patties, see the Easy Tuna Patties Recipe. Enjoy your Tuna Melt Patties and make them your own!

Tuna melt patties served on a plate with toppings

Tuna Melt Patties

Quick, cheap, and flavorful tuna patties that are cheesy and crispy on the outside, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 patties
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

Tuna Mixture
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) canned tuna, drained Make sure to drain the tuna very well.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch if desired.
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss)
  • 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter For cooking.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Stir in shredded cheese and green onions. Form the mixture into 4-5 patties.
Cooking
  1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Serving
  1. Serve on toasted bread, English muffins, or alongside a fresh salad. For an extra cheesy finish, top with cheese and place under the broiler for a minute.

Notes

Chill the shaped patties 10-15 minutes so they hold shape while cooking. Use a nonstick skillet or a little extra butter if needed. Options for variations include using almond flour for a keto version, adding spice with sriracha or jalapeño, or baking instead of frying.

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