Tuna Patties: 1 Incredible Way to Make Them

Name: Tuna Patties: 1 Incredible Way to Make Them
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans tuna, 5 oz/142 g each, drained very well (about 10 oz total); 1/2 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup (60 g) mayonnaise; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp finely chopped green onion; 2 tbsp finely chopped celery; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1/2 tsp lemon zest; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 2–3 tbsp olive oil or neutral oil, for frying; Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

by Manar Jota

August 25, 2025

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Easy tuna patties have been a lifesaver in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when dinner needs to be quick and delicious. I remember the first time I tried making them from scratch, using simple ingredients from my pantry. The aroma of them sizzling in the pan, creating a beautiful golden crust, was just heavenly! These aren’t just any tuna patties; they’re hands-down the best tuna patties recipe I’ve ever discovered, transforming humble canned tuna into something truly special. If you’ve ever wondered how to make tuna patties that are perfectly moist inside and delightfully crisp outside, you’re in the right place. These are truly some of the best canned tuna recipes out there. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Tuna Patties

These tuna patties are a kitchen superstar for so many reasons! They’re incredibly satisfying with a perfect balance of crispy exterior and tender interior. You’ll adore them because they come together in a flash, making them ideal for busy nights. Plus, they’re a fantastic budget-friendly meal, turning pantry staples into a delicious dish. These little flavor bombs are also surprisingly healthy, offering good protein without breaking the bank. They’re a hit with the whole family, making them a great option for picky eaters. Think of them as delightful tuna cakes or even mini tuna burgers – always a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients for Delicious Tuna Patties

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making amazing tuna patties. You’ll need two cans of tuna, about 5 oz each, which you’ll want to drain really well and then flake with a fork. This is key to getting the right texture for your tuna cakes. For binding and moisture, we’ll use 1/2 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs – these are fantastic for creating that perfectly crisp exterior, making these tuna patties with breadcrumbs extra special. You’ll also need 1 large egg, which helps hold everything together beautifully. A little bit of 1/4 cup (60 g) mayonnaise adds richness and moisture. We’ll also add 2 tbsp finely chopped green onion, 2 tbsp finely chopped celery for a bit of crunch, and 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for freshness. A little zing comes from 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 tsp lemon zest. Finally, a dash of flavor from 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/4 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper will make these the best tuna patties recipe.

How to Make Tuna Patties

Making these delicious tuna patties is super straightforward! You’ll be amazed at how easily these canned tuna recipes come together.

Step 1: Start by draining your tuna thoroughly. I like to press out as much liquid as possible using the lid or a fork. Add the flaked tuna to a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Now, let’s add the flavor! Toss in the mayonnaise, egg, finely chopped green onion, celery, fresh parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice and zest, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine everything.
Step 3: Fold in the panko breadcrumbs until the mixture is evenly moistened. Scoop about 1/4 cup of the mixture for each patty, then gently press them into 1/2-inch-thick rounds. For the best results, chill these patties in the fridge for about 10 minutes; this really helps them hold their shape.
Step 4: To get those perfect pan-fried tuna patties, heat about 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat. Carefully add half of the chilled patties to the hot skillet. Cook them for about 3–4 minutes per side, until they’re a deep golden brown and heated all the way through. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a lovely crisp exterior. Repeat this process with the remaining oil and patties.
Step 5: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place your formed patties on a lightly oiled, parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping them halfway through (around the 8-minute mark), until they look beautifully golden.
Step 6: For a quick and crispy finish, try the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Lightly mist the air fryer basket and the patties with oil. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, flipping them at the 5-minute mark, until they are wonderfully crisp and heated through. These tuna patties air fryer are fantastic!

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Pro Tips for the Best Tuna Patties

Want to elevate your tuna patty game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve that guarantee delicious results every time. These simple tips will help you make perfect tuna patties that are flavorful and hold together beautifully.

Always drain your canned tuna extremely well. Press out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy patties.
Don’t overmix the ingredients once the breadcrumbs are added. Gentle folding ensures a tender texture.
Chill the formed patties for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This step is crucial for helping them hold their shape.
For the crispiest exterior, make sure your pan or air fryer is properly preheated and avoid overcrowding.

What’s the secret to perfect tuna patties?

The absolute key to perfect tuna patties is chilling them before cooking! It firms up the mixture, preventing them from falling apart. If your tuna patties are falling apart, it’s usually because they weren’t chilled enough or the ratio of wet to dry ingredients was off. For more recipe inspiration, check out our recipes section.

Can I make tuna patties ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can make the tuna patty mixture ahead of time. You can even form the patties and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This is a great way to prep for a quick meal later! If you’re looking for other quick meal ideas, you might enjoy our Chinese-style Mango Chicken Stir-Fry.

How do I avoid common mistakes with tuna patties?

A common pitfall is a mixture that’s too wet, leading to patties that won’t hold their shape. If your mixture seems too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs or a touch more mayonnaise. For a lighter option, you can try making tuna patties without egg by using a bit more mayonnaise or a flax egg. You can learn more about making flax eggs from resources like Healthline.

Best Ways to Serve Tuna Patties

These versatile tuna patties are fantastic served in so many ways! For a quick and easy lunch or dinner, I love serving them as classic tuna burgers on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli. They also make great sliders, perfect for appetizers or a fun family meal. If you’re looking for a lighter option, enjoy them atop a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. For a bit of variety, you can even shape them into smaller, bite-sized portions, almost like tuna croquettes, and serve them with a dipping sauce. For other family-friendly meals, consider our Ground Beef Zucchini Casserole.

Nutrition Facts for Tuna Patties

Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown for these delicious tuna patties, per serving (this recipe makes 8 patties):

Calories: 210
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 350mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutrition, you can consult the MyFitnessPal database.

How to Store and Reheat Tuna Patties

Once your delicious tuna patties are cooked, proper storage is key to enjoying them later. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation inside your containers, which can make them soggy. I like to store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking them. You can keep them in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option! Wrap individual cooled patties tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. For other great make-ahead meals, try our Coconut Chicken Meatballs.

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored tuna patties, reheating is simple. For the best results, I recommend reheating them in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of oil, just like how to cook tuna patties the first time, until they’re heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in the oven at around 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. The air fryer is also a quick option, just a few minutes at 350°F until hot! If you’re interested in air fryer cooking, check out our Peruvian Chicken and Rice with Green Sauce which can also be adapted for air frying.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Patties

What are tuna patties made of?

At their core, tuna patties are made from canned tuna, combined with a binder like egg and breadcrumbs, and seasoned with various herbs and spices. My recipe includes mayonnaise for moisture, green onion and celery for a fresh crunch, and a hint of Dijon mustard for tang. They’re a fantastic way to use up pantry staples and create a satisfying meal. For more about pantry staples, you can visit our About Me page for insights into my kitchen philosophy.

Are these tuna patties good for kids?

Absolutely! These tuna patties are a huge hit with kids. They have a mild flavor that most children enjoy, and the crispy texture is always a winner. You can even make them smaller, like mini tuna burgers, to make them more appealing. They’re a much healthier alternative to fried chicken nuggets or fish sticks, and a great way to introduce them to more seafood.

Can I make tuna patties without eggs?

Yes, you can definitely make tuna patties without eggs! If you need to avoid eggs or just ran out, you can substitute the egg with a little extra mayonnaise or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). Some people also find that adding a bit more breadcrumbs or even some mashed potato can help bind the mixture if you’re making tuna patties without egg.

Why are my tuna patties falling apart?

The most common reason tuna patties fall apart is that the mixture is too wet, or they haven’t been chilled long enough. Make sure you drain your tuna extremely well, pressing out all excess liquid. Chilling the formed patties for at least 10 minutes before cooking is crucial; it helps them firm up. If the mixture still seems too loose, try adding a tablespoon or two more breadcrumbs.

Variations of Tuna Patties You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic tuna patties, you’ll want to experiment with all sorts of delicious twists! These variations are a great way to keep things exciting and cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Think of them as delicious cousins to classic fish cakes or even salmon patties. For another flavorful variation, consider our Indian Butter Chicken Recipe.

Gluten-Free Tuna Patties: For a gluten-free option, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or even almond flour. If your mixture seems a bit wet, a little extra almond flour can help bind them perfectly.
Spicy Tuna Patties: If you love a little heat, try adding 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the mixture. You can also finely dice a jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) for an extra kick.
Mediterranean Tuna Patties: Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your plate by adding 1 tablespoon of chopped capers, a few pitted and chopped Kalamata olives, and a teaspoon of dried oregano to the mix.
Tuna Croquettes: For a finer texture, similar to tuna croquettes, you can pulse the drained tuna a few times in a food processor before mixing with the other ingredients. This creates a smoother, more refined patty.

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