Tuna Patties
Whip up these easy & flavorful tuna patties for a satisfying meal! This classic recipe is a family favorite.
Tuna patties (also called tuna cakes or tuna burgers) are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. This simple recipe uses pantry staples to create flavorful patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re a busy mom or just looking for a delicious and budget-friendly meal, this tuna patties recipe is a great option. You can customize them with your favorite herbs and spices, and they’re delicious served with a variety of sides. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
- Recipe Ingredients
- Ingredient Notes
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Recipe Tips & Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Nutrition Facts
- Recipe Reviews
Recipe Ingredients
- 2 – 5 oz. cans of tuna fish, drained
- 1 teaspoon dry minced onion
- 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 Tablespoons sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: chili flakes, aioli, and/or lemon wedges for serving
Ingredient Notes
- Canned Tuna: Use your favorite type of canned tuna, such as albacore or skipjack. Be sure to drain the cans of tuna well before using. You can use tuna packed in water or oil, depending on your preference.
- Dry Minced Onion: Adds a subtle onion flavor without the harshness of raw onion. If you don’t have dry minced onion, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh onion.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness and freshness to the tuna cakes. You can substitute with or use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley or other fresh herbs like dill, chives, or finely chopped green onions.
- Lemon Juice: Adds a touch of acidity and balances the richness of the tuna fish. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Black Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor. Use freshly ground black pepper for the best taste.
- Sour Cream: Adds moisture and richness. You can substitute with plain yogurt or mayonnaise, if desired.
- Large Egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps the patties hold their shape.
- Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and help the cakes crisp up when cooked. Use plain or panko for a crispier texture.
- Olive Oil: Use a good quality oil for pan-frying. It adds a subtle flavor and helps create a crispy exterior. You can substitute with another oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado or vegetable oil, but olive oil is recommended for its flavor.
Optional Ingredients:
- Chili Flakes: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat.
- Aioli or Tartar Sauce: Aioli and tartar sauce are delicious dipping sauces. You can use store-bought or make your own.
- Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for an extra burst of fresh flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a bowl combine tuna, onion, parsley, lemon juice and black pepper.
2. Stir in sour cream, egg and breadcrumbs.
3. Shape into 4 patties.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook patties about 4 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned, turning gently. Or you can preheat your oven to 350°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake for 10 minutes until warmed through.
4. Serve topped with optional chili flakes and with your favorite dip or with some rice and roasted veggies.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Get Creative with Flavor:
- Add a kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture for a spicy twist. You can also add two teaspoons of minced fresh garlic or ½ to 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Zesty boost: Include a teaspoon of lemon zest for a brighter, more pronounced lemon flavor.
- Fresh herbs: Experiment with different fresh herbs like dill, chives, or oregano for a unique flavor profile.
Texture Tweaks:
- Extra crispy: Use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crispier exterior.
- Chunky texture: Add a small handful of chopped celery or bell peppers for a satisfying crunch.
Make it a Meal:
- Tuna patties benedict: Top with a poached egg and hollandaise sauce for a decadent brunch.
- Tuna patty melts: Serve on toasted bread with melted cheese and your favorite burger toppings.
- Tuna patty salad: Crumble cooked tuna cakes over a bed of greens and your favorite salad ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Keto-friendly: Substitute almond flour for breadcrumbs to reduce carbohydrates.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
- Skillet: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
- Oven: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Air fryer: Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 ingredient tuna patties?
The 4 essential ingredients for tuna patties are canned tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, and mayonnaise. These ingredients bind together to create a flavorful and moist patty that holds its shape when cooked.
How do you keep tuna patties from falling apart?
To prevent tuna patties from falling apart, ensure the tuna is well-drained and use enough breadcrumbs to bind the mixture. Refrigerating the mixture for 30 minutes before cooking also helps them firm up.
Why do my tuna patties fall apart?
Tuna patties may fall apart if the mixture is too wet or if there aren’t enough binding agents. Make sure the tuna is drained thoroughly and add more breadcrumbs if needed.
What’s good to mix with canned tuna?
Canned tuna is versatile and pairs well with many ingredients. Some popular additions include mayonnaise, celery, onion, relish, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs.
What do you eat with tuna patties for dinner?
Tuna patties are delicious served with a variety of sides. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, green beans, salad, or rice pilaf.
How do I make tuna patties?
To make tuna patties, simply combine drained canned tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, and your favorite seasonings. Shape the mixture into patties and cook them in a skillet until golden brown and cooked through.
How do you cook canned tuna?
Canned tuna is pre-cooked, so it doesn’t need to be cooked further. You can use it straight from the can or heat it gently in a pan with a little olive oil or butter.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 171 kcal | Carbohydrates: 6 g | Protein: 16 g | Fat: 9.6 g | Sodium: 232 mg | Fiber: 0 g | Sugar: 1 g | Cholesterol: 74 mg | Vitamin D: 7% | Calcium: 4% | Iron: 10% | Potassium: 4%% | Iron: 7% | Potassium: 7%