The other day, while rummaging through my pantry, I unearthed a couple of cans of tuna that had been hiding in the back for far too long. In a moment of inspiration, I decided to reinvent this misunderstood pantry staple into something delicious. That’s when I whipped up these Tuna Patties!
With each crispy bite, you’ll discover a delightful combination of flavors—savory garlic, tangy Dijon, and a burst of freshness from parsley. Plus, these may just be the quickest weeknight dinner solution you’ve been searching for. In just 30 minutes, you can impress your family or wow your guests with a dish that not only tastes great but is also a breeze to make.
Perfect for those tired of fast food and seeking a homemade meal, these patties are versatile enough to serve with a side salad, in a burger bun, or even on their own as a snack. So, let’s dive in and elevate your dinner table with this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Why are Tuna Patties so popular?
Quick and easy: These Tuna Patties come together in just 30 minutes, making them a fantastic solution for busy weeknights.
Savory and satisfying: Packed with garlic and Dijon mustard, each bite bursts with flavor, sure to win over everyone at the table.
Versatile dining: Serve them on a bed of fresh greens, in a soft bun, or as an appetizer—these patties can do it all!
Healthy choice: With lean protein and fresh ingredients, they provide a nutritious alternative to fast food, keeping your meals wholesome.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, these Tuna Patties are a guaranteed hit that everyone will love!
If you’re looking for more quick dinner inspirations, check out my full list of easy and delicious weeknight meals.
Tuna Patties Ingredients
• Dive into the goodness of these Tuna Patties!
For the Patties
- Tuna – 2 (5-ounce) cans, drained – A pantry essential that adds a punch of protein and flavor.
- Mayonnaise – 2 tablespoons – This creamy ingredient keeps the patties moist and adds richness.
- Dijon Mustard – 2 tablespoons – A zesty twist that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
- Fresh Garlic – 2 teaspoons, minced – Brings a savory depth that makes these patties irresistible.
- Large Eggs – 2 – Acts as a binder, ensuring your patties hold together while cooking.
- Kosher Salt – ¼ teaspoon – Enhances all the other flavors and brings balance to the dish.
- Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon – A subtle spice that rounds out the flavor, making each bite delightful.
- Fresh Parsley – ½ cup, chopped – Adds a touch of color and freshness for a flavorful finish.
- Olive Oil – 4 tablespoons – Perfect for frying, it gives the patties a golden, crispy exterior.
These Tuna Patties are a delectable solution to spice up your home-cooked dinner and say goodbye to fast food!
How to Make Tuna Patties
-
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to the “keep warm” setting at 170°F. This will keep your delicious patties warm while you fry the second batch!
-
Drain the tuna: Open the cans of tuna and drain them thoroughly. Place the tuna in a medium bowl and flake it gently with a fork until it’s nice and crumbly—no big chunks allowed!
-
Combine ingredients: Add in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, eggs, kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly chopped parsley. Mix everything together until well combined, creating a delightful, creamy tuna mixture.
-
Heat the skillet: Place a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for frying.
-
Form the patties: Using a 4-tablespoon scoop or measuring cup, scoop out portions of the tuna mixture and drop them into the hot oil. Gently flatten each mound with the back of a fork to form patties.
-
Fry to golden perfection: Cook the patties for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep the cooked patties warm in the oven while you repeat with the remaining mixture.
-
Serve and enjoy: Once all the patties are cooked, take them out of the oven and serve them immediately, bursting with flavor and ready to impress!
Optional: Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Tuna Patties
Fridge: Store leftover Tuna Patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties in single layers separated by parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for quick meals on busy nights!
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen patties on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crisp. Enjoy the same great flavors!
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep Tuna Patties at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety while guests enjoy their meal.
What to Serve with Tuna Patties?
Creating the perfect meal to accompany these crispy tuna delights can transform your dinner into an exciting feast.
-
Crispy Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes tossed with a lemon vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the hearty patties. The crunch of fresh veggies elevates this dish, offering a balance of textures.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool creaminess of coleslaw pairs beautifully with the warm, crispy patties. Its tangy flavor complements the savory aspects of the tuna, creating a satisfying bite every time.
-
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and an aromatic touch to your meal. Slather with herb-infused butter for an indulgent complement that everyone will adore.
-
Steamed Asparagus: A side of tender steamed asparagus offers a vibrant green touch and nutritional boost. Lightly seasoned, its earthy flavor enhances the patty’s taste without overshadowing it.
-
Lemonade Spritzers: A refreshing drink, like lemonade spritzers, balances the savory richness of the tuna patties. A hint of citrus brightens your entire meal, making it feel effortless and joyful.
-
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs add comforting warmth to the table, perfectly matching the tuna’s flavors. Their golden, crispy edges invite hearty bites next to your patties.
-
Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese not only offers a delightful texture but also mingles flavors that blend harmoniously with the Tuna Patties.
These delightful pairings will surely enhance your dinner experience, making your Tuna Patties the star of the show!
Tuna Patties Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Tuna Patties your own with these delightful twists!
-
Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for an exciting heat that will tantalize your taste buds. Spice it up and turn those patties into a flavor fiesta!
-
Crispy Coating: Roll patties in panko breadcrumbs before frying for an extra crunchy exterior. The added texture will elevate your patties, giving each bite a satisfying crunch.
-
Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh dill or cilantro to impart a fresh dimension of flavor. Each bite bursts with herbaceous goodness, perfect for brightening your dish.
-
Cheesy Delight: Fold in ½ cup of shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for extra richness. Melty cheese in your patties creates a delightful surprise that will keep everyone coming back for more.
-
Vegetarian Option: Substitute tuna with chickpeas or mashed beans for a plant-based alternative. Add extra spices like cumin or paprika for a flavorful twist that even meat lovers will enjoy!
-
Zucchini Boost: Grate ½ cup of zucchini into the mixture for added moisture and nutrition. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it sneaks in some veggies for added health benefits.
-
Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate ¼ cup of chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean vibe. These ingredients infuse a savory, briny taste that will transport your taste buds to sunny shores.
-
Coconut Crunch: For a tropical twist, mix in unsweetened shredded coconut. It adds a delightful texture and a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory tuna.
Dive into these variations and enjoy the endless possibilities of flavor while making your Tuna Patties even more enjoyable!
Expert Tips for Tuna Patties
-
Tuna Drainage: Thoroughly drain the tuna to prevent excess moisture, which can make your patties soggy. Aim for a dry consistency for perfect texture.
-
Egg Binding: Use large eggs as a binder to help the mixture hold together. If the patties are crumbling, consider adding an extra egg for stability.
-
Oil Temperature: Ensure your olive oil is hot enough before adding the patties; a shimmering surface indicates readiness. Otherwise, the patties may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
-
Cooking Time: Resist the urge to flip the patties too soon; allow them to crisp up for about 3 minutes on each side before turning. This results in a beautifully golden crust.
-
Serving Suggestions: Pair your Tuna Patties with a fresh salad, or pop them in a burger bun with your favorite toppings for a delightful meal that’s versatile and satisfying!
Make Ahead Options
These Tuna Patties are perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights much easier! You can prepare the tuna mixture—combining the drained tuna, mayo, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, eggs, kosher salt, black pepper, and parsley—up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to ensure freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the olive oil and scoop out the mixture to form patties as directed. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious, crispy texture and flavor with minimal effort on busy nights, ensuring your homemade meal is just as tasty!
Tuna Patties Recipe FAQs
What kind of tuna should I use for Tuna Patties?
Absolutely! I recommend using canned tuna in water for a lighter taste and texture. Always check for options with no added salt for a healthier choice, and if you prefer, you can also use canned tuna in olive oil for added flavor.
How should I store leftover Tuna Patties?
For storing in the fridge, place leftover Tuna Patties in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Allow the patties to cool completely before sealing to ensure they retain their delightful crispness.
Can I freeze Tuna Patties? How do I do it?
Very! You can freeze your Tuna Patties for up to 2 months. To do this, lay them flat on a lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen!
What should I do if my patties are falling apart?
If you’re experiencing crumbling patties, don’t worry! It might be because your tuna was too wet; try draining it more thoroughly next time. Alternatively, to provide better binding, you can add an extra egg or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the mixture before frying. This helps them hold together beautifully!
Can pets eat Tuna Patties?
While a small amount of plain tuna can be safe for pets, it’s important that you skip the spices, mayo, and other seasonings before sharing. Always consult your vet before adding new foods to your pet’s diet, especially anything with garlic or onions, as these can be harmful to animals.
Are Tuna Patties gluten-free?
Yes, Tuna Patties are naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any condiments you use, like Dijon mustard, are certified gluten-free. If you’re serving them on a bun, look for gluten-free bread options to keep the meal safe and delicious for everyone.
Crispy Tuna Patties That Will Elevate Your Dinner Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to the 'keep warm' setting at 170°F.
- Open the cans of tuna and drain them thoroughly. Flake the tuna in a bowl.
- Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, eggs, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix well.
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop out portions of the tuna mixture into the hot oil and flatten with a fork.
- Cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm and enjoy!