Tuna Melt Patties
Tuna Melt Patties are a fun twist on the classic tuna melt sandwich you might already love. These patties are packed with tuna, melty cheese, and a mix of flavorful…
Tip: save now, cook later.Tuna Melt Patties are a fun twist on the classic tuna melt sandwich you might already love. These patties are packed with tuna, melty cheese, and a mix of flavorful seasonings all shaped into easy-to-handle rounds. They get crispy on the outside while staying soft and cheesy inside, making every bite super satisfying.
I love making these patties because they’re perfect for when I want something quick but still filling. Plus, they’re great for feeding a small crowd or just keeping in the fridge for a tasty snack later on. A little tip: cook them slowly on medium heat so the cheese melts perfectly without burning the outside.
My favorite way to enjoy Tuna Melt Patties is topped with a bit of your favorite sauce or tucked into a sandwich bun with fresh lettuce and tomato. They bring all the flavors of a traditional tuna melt, but with a crispy twist that’s fun to eat. These patties always bring a little extra joy to lunch or dinner at my house.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Canned tuna in water works best here for a mild flavor and less fat. You could use tuna in oil for richer taste, but drain it well to avoid greasy patties.
Cheese: Cheddar adds nice meltiness and sharp flavor. Feel free to swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites for different tastes.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties and create a crispy crust. You can use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Eggs & Mayo: Eggs help keep the patties together, and mayo adds moisture and creaminess. For dairy-free, try a vegan mayo or flax egg substitute.
Onion & Parsley: Fresh chopped onion brings a little bite while parsley adds freshness. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried herbs or chives can work fine.
How Do I Get Crispy, Well-formed Tuna Patties?
Making patties that hold together and get crispy can be tricky, but here’s how I do it:
- Drain the tuna very well. Excess moisture makes patties fall apart.
- Use enough breadcrumbs to soak up moisture and help bind the mix.
- Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Shape patties firmly but don’t overwork the mixture to keep them tender.
- Lightly coat patties with breadcrumbs before frying for a crisp crust.
- Cook in a hot skillet over medium heat. Don’t rush or cook on too high heat or patties might burn before heating through.
- Flip carefully and only once if possible to keep patties intact.
Following these tips will give you perfectly crispy patties with gooey cheese inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – helps get a crispy crust without the patties sticking.
- Spatula – perfect for flipping the patties gently without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, especially breadcrumbs and seasonings.
- Plate lined with paper towels – handy to drain excess oil after frying.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap tuna for canned salmon or cooked shredded chicken for different protein options.
- Mix in diced bell peppers or grated zucchini to add freshness and extra veggies.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for some subtle heat.
- Use pepper jack or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar for a new cheesy flavor.
How to Make Tuna Melt Patties
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for frying
To Serve:
- Lemon wedges
- Your choice of dipping sauce or spread (e.g., spicy mayo or tartar sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook, so you can have tasty Tuna Melt Patties ready in about 20 minutes total.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patty Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup breadcrumbs. Then add the eggs, mayonnaise, chopped onion, parsley, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and sticky enough to hold its shape.
2. Shape and Coat the Patties:
Divide the mixture and form into patties about 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Lightly coat each patty with some extra breadcrumbs to help create a crispy crust when cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown on the outside and cooked through. Be gentle when flipping to keep the patties intact.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the cooked patties on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing. These patties are great on their own with your favorite dipping sauce or served inside sandwich buns with lettuce and tomato.
Can I Use Frozen Tuna for These Patties?
It’s best to use canned tuna for this recipe because it’s already cooked and drained. If you want to use frozen tuna, make sure it’s fully thawed, drained well, and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients.
How Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?
Simply swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will keep the patties crispy without compromising flavor.
Can I Make Tuna Melt Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Make sure to cover them tightly. Cook just before serving for the best texture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.