Tuna Patties – Simple and Easy

Tuna Patties are a quick, delicious, and healthy meal made with flaky canned tuna, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and a touch of seasoning, these patties are pan-fried to golden perfection. Serve them with a side of crisp salad or a dollop of your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Tuna Patties

Use Quality Tuna: Opt for good-quality canned tuna for the best taste. Tuna packed in water is typically preferred as it’s lighter and less oily, but tuna packed in oil can add more richness.

Binders Are Key: The breadcrumbs and egg act as binders in this recipe, holding the patties together. If you’re using gluten-free breadcrumbs, you may need to adjust the quantity to get the right consistency.

Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overwork the tuna mixture. Mixing it too much can make the patties tough, so gently stir the ingredients together.

Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or chives can elevate the flavor and give the patties a lovely herby freshness.

Frying: For a healthier option, you can bake the tuna patties in the oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method eliminates the need for frying while still creating a crispy texture.

Variations of Tuna Patties

Spicy Tuna Patties: Add a little heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture.

Cheesy Tuna Patties: Add shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan) to the patty mixture for a cheesy twist.

Mediterranean Tuna Patties: For a Mediterranean flavor, add finely chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.

Vegan Option: Substitute the tuna with mashed chickpeas and use flaxseed meal or chickpea flour as a binder. Swap the egg with a vegan egg substitute for a plant-based patty.

Crispy Coating: Instead of breadcrumbs, you can coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.

How to Serve Tuna Patties

Tuna patties can be served in many ways, making them a versatile dish for any occasion:

1. Tuna Patty Sandwiches: Serve the patties in a bun with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of mayo or tartar sauce for a delicious sandwich.
2. Tuna Patty Salad: Add the patties to a bed of mixed greens, cucumber, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy salad option.
3. Tuna Patties and Fries: For a classic pairing, serve your patties alongside crispy French fries or sweet potato fries.
4. Tuna Patty Wraps: Wrap the patties in a tortilla with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce for an easy wrap-style meal.

How to Store Tuna Patties

Tuna patties store well in the refrigerator, making them a great make-ahead meal. Here’s how to store them:

• In the Fridge: Place leftover tuna patties in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply heat them in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
• In the Freezer: Tuna patties freeze beautifully. To freeze, arrange the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Just make sure to cook it first, then flake it into small pieces before adding it to the mixture.

Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I use if I don’t have breadcrumbs?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, panko, or oats. Gluten-free options include rice flour or almond flour.

Are these tuna patties gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check all other ingredients, these tuna patties can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tuna patty mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying or baking.

Conclusion

Tuna patties are a quick, tasty, and healthy option for a meal, and this recipe provides a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re preparing a light dinner or serving them at your next gathering, these tuna patties are sure to be a hit with everyone. With endless variations, you can tailor this dish to suit your tastes, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Try these other tuna recipes:

• Spicy Tuna
• Tuna Salad Sandwich
• Tuna Poke Bowl