Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Crispy on the outside, melty and flavorful on the inside—these Tuna Melt Patties Recipe are a perfect twist on the classic tuna melt. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a hearty snack, this dish is quick to prepare and satisfies your cravings. Made with simple ingredients, these patties offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: With pantry staples like canned tuna and breadcrumbs, this meal won’t break the bank.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them on toasted bread, in a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of tuna, cheese, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor that will please even picky eaters.
• Healthy Protein Source: Each patty is packed with protein and essential nutrients to keep you energized throughout the day.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting. The right equipment can make all the difference in preparing your Tuna Melt Patties.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking without sticking, which is essential for achieving that perfect golden crust.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Tuna Mixture

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese & Garnish

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon butter, for cooking

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 2: Add Cheese & Shape Patties

Stir in shredded cheese and green onions until mixed. Form the mixture into 4-5 patties of even size.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve on toasted bread or English muffins. For an extra cheesy finish, top with additional cheese and broil for about one minute until melted. Enjoy your delicious Tuna Melt Patties!

How to Serve Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Tuna Melt Patties are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them as a sandwich or on their own, these patties make for a delightful meal any time of the day.

On Toasted Bread

• Enjoy the patties on your favorite toasted bread for a classic sandwich experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy patties.

In a Wrap

• Place the patties in a wrap with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce for an easy lunch option.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, add an extra layer of cheese on top of each patty and broil for a minute to melt.

As Appetizers

• Cut the patties into smaller pieces and serve them with dipping sauces for a perfect appetizer at parties.

How to Perfect Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture with your Tuna Melt Patties, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and quality canned tuna enhance flavor significantly.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the ingredients to keep the patties tender rather than tough.

• Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the shaped patties for 15-30 minutes helps them hold together better during cooking.

• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices like adding cayenne pepper or herbs for added flavor.

• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches so each patty can brown evenly.

Best Side Dishes for Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

These side dishes complement Tuna Melt Patties perfectly, enhancing your meal experience.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and sweet, they provide a great contrast to the savory patties. Bake or fry until golden.

2. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of the tuna patties.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is nutritious and provides a nice color contrast on your plate.

4. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad is filling and can be made with various vegetables for added texture.

5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers roasted with olive oil bring sweetness and depth alongside.

6. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges baked until crispy make for a hearty side that everyone loves.

7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with tuna.

8. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh fruit adds sweetness and balances out the savory flavors of the patties beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuna Melt Patties, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Avoiding these errors will lead to better results.

• Skipping the Drainage: Failing to thoroughly drain the tuna can lead to soggy patties. Make sure to press out excess liquid for a firmer texture.
• Overmixing the Ingredients: Mixing too much can make your patties tough. Combine the ingredients just until they are blended for a lighter texture.
• Inconsistent Patty Sizes: Making uneven patties can result in uneven cooking. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly and perfectly.
• Not Preheating the Skillet: Placing patties in an unheated skillet can cause sticking and poor browning. Always preheat your skillet before cooking.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking patties too long or not long enough affects their crispiness. Keep an eye on them, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.
• They will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes per side until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Tuna Melt Patties Recipe that can help you with your preparation.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes! You can use fresh tuna, but be sure to cook it thoroughly and flake it before mixing with other ingredients.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or avocado as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise while still keeping creaminess.

How do I make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables to my Tuna Melt Patties?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers or spinach can be great additions for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

These Tuna Melt Patties are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize them with various spices or vegetables. Whether served on toast or alongside a salad, they make for a satisfying meal that’s quick and easy. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors!