Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to come together and easy to cook, these patties deliver tender tuna paired with parmesan and Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. They’re flavorful, versatile, and can be served in a variety of ways from atop a salad to nestled in a bun.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 10 tablespoons Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
- 3 tablespoons diced onion
- A pinch of ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and lemon juice until well combined.
- Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, drained tuna, diced onion, and a pinch of black pepper. Gently mix until just combined avoid overworking the mixture to keep the patties tender.
- Form the mixture into patties about 6 even patties works nicely depending on your preferred size.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently place the patties in the skillet, ensuring they have some space between them.
- Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to flip them carefully to maintain their shape.
- Remove from skillet and let rest for a minute before serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 6 tuna patties
- Timing:
- Prep Time: Around 10 minutes
- Cook Time: About 8 minutes (roughly 4 minutes per side)
- Total Time: Approximately 18 minutes
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place under a broiler or in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through; this helps keep them crisp. Patties can also be frozen flash-freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use plain breadcrumbs instead?
Yes plain breadcrumbs work fine. Season with a little extra Italian seasoning or herbs to boost flavor.
2. What can I substitute for Parmesan?
You can swap with grated Pecorino Romano or a sprinkle of cheddar just be mindful of the flavor impact.
3. Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely. Bake in a preheated oven at 400 °F (200 °C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead.
5. Is lemon juice necessary?
It brightens the flavor, but you can substitute with a dash of white wine vinegar or omit it if unavailable.
6. Can I add other seasonings?
Definitely try mixing in garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chopped herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
7. How do I prevent patties from falling apart?
Ensure the tuna is well-drained and press the mixture gently into patties. If mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
8. Are these kid-friendly?
Yes they are mild and mild-flavored, making them a great option for kids. Serve with ketchup, tartar sauce, or mayo if desired.
9. Can I add vegetables?
Sure finely diced bell pepper or shredded carrot could be mixed into the patty mixture for added color and crunch.
10. What are good serving suggestions?
Serve over a green salad, in a soft bun as a sandwich, atop toasted bread, or alongside roasted vegetables or a simple slaw.
Conclusion
Quick, flavorful, and fuss-free, these tuna patties are a delicious solution for busy mealtimes they offer protein, ease, and versatility all in one bite. Whether pan-fried or baked, they’re sure to become a pantry favorite. Let me know if you’d like tips on sauces or garnishes to pair with them!
Print
Easy Tuna Patties
Quick, crispy-on-the-outside and tender-on-the-inside tuna patties made with pantry staples—perfect for an easy lunch or dinner.
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 6 patties
Ingredients
2 eggs
2 teaspoons lemon juice
10 tablespoons Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
3 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained
3 tablespoons diced onion
A pinch of ground black pepper
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and lemon juice until well combined.
- Add breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, tuna, diced onion, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form mixture into about 6 patties.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place patties in skillet, leaving space between them.
- Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove and let rest for 1 minute before serving.
Notes
Use plain breadcrumbs with added Italian seasoning if preferred.
Swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or cheddar for a different flavor.
For baking, cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Make gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs or crushed GF crackers.
Add extra seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or herbs for variety.
To prevent falling apart, ensure tuna is well-drained and adjust breadcrumb amount if mixture is too wet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
