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Tuna Patties Recipe

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3.9 from 44 reviews

These Tuna Patties are a quick and delicious way to enjoy canned tuna transformed into flavorful, crispy patties. Made with simple ingredients like panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and fresh herbs, they offer a moist interior and a perfectly golden exterior cooked on the stovetop. Ideal for a light lunch or dinner, they can be served plain or with a variety of tasty spreads.

Ingredients

Tuna Patty Mixture

  • 2 (5 oz each) chunk tuna in water, well drained to 3.5 oz tuna each
  • 1/3 cup (25g) panko bread crumbs (or quick oats, or gluten free bread crumbs)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp minced green onion
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Cooking

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, use a fork to stir together the well-drained tuna, panko breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced green onion, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until evenly combined to form the tuna patty mixture.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl and transfer it to the refrigerator to rest for 30 minutes, or up to 1 day. This resting helps the mixture firm up, making shaping patties easier.
  3. Shape Patties: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Shape the tuna mixture into 4 patties, about 3 to 3 1/2 inches each. If the mixture feels runny, add a little more panko breadcrumbs to help it hold together while ensuring a moist interior.
  4. Cook Patties: Use a thin metal spatula to carefully transfer the patties into the hot skillet. Press each patty down gently to ensure even contact with the skillet surface. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Add more olive oil if needed for the second side.
  5. Serve: Serve the tuna patties plain, with lemon wedges, or alongside spreads such as tzatziki, aioli, hollandaise, or a seasoned mayonnaise for added flavor.

Notes

  • If the tuna mixture is too wet, add additional panko breadcrumbs gradually until it holds well but remains moist.
  • Use a thin metal spatula to flip patties gently to prevent them from breaking apart.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute panko bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or quick oats.
  • These patties can be made ahead and refrigerated up to one day before cooking.
  • Serve with fresh lemon wedges or your favorite sauce for enhanced flavor.