There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy dish that combines the savory flavors of tuna and melty cheese into a delightful package. Tuna Melt Patties are just that! They are a fantastic, quick option for lunch or dinner and are perfect for using up those pantry staples you might have on hand. This recipe transforms a classic tuna melt into patty form, making it easy to serve in a fun and crispy way. Plus, they’re great for kid-approved meals, satisfying both adults and little ones alike.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Tuna Melt Patties so appealing? For starters, they are highly adaptable and budget-friendly, allowing you to whip up a meal without breaking the bank. They’re packed with protein, making them a nutritious choice that can be ready in just about 30 minutes. Perfectly crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these patties are ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Serve them with a nice salad or in a bun for a heartier meal—either way, you can’t go wrong!
"These Tuna Melt Patties are a family favorite! Easy to prepare, and the kids love how cheesy they are!" — A Happy Cook
The cooking process explained
Making Tuna Melt Patties is straightforward and fun! The process begins by mixing all the core ingredients in a large bowl, forming them into patties, and cooking them until golden brown. You’ll find that this simple sequence keeps things organized, making it easy to get from prep to plate quickly.
What you’ll need
Before diving into the cooking, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
Feel free to adjust or substitute ingredients to fit your taste or dietary requirements. For example, swapping out the cheddar for your favorite cheese or adding in some herbs for added flavor can change the game!
Directions to follow
Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to prepare your Tuna Melt Patties:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the tuna, garlic powder, green onions, onion powder, egg, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, black pepper, salt, and breadcrumbs. Mix it all together until combined.
- Gently fold in the cheddar cheese to the mixture.
- Form the blend into patties—aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted.
- Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve them warm, optionally topping with additional cheese.
Best ways to enjoy it
Tuna Melt Patties are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal with some creative serving ideas. Consider placing them on a toasted bun for a delightful sandwich experience, or serve them over a bed of fresh greens with a squeeze of lemon for a lighter option. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing coleslaw. The possibilities are endless!
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though it’s hard to imagine that!), you can store the patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in a skillet until warmed through and crispy.
Helpful cooking tips
For extra crispy patties, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the tuna cakes. If you want to save time, you can mix the tuna mixture and shape the patties ahead of time, keeping them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This dish is a great way to use up leftover tuna from previous meals too!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider:
- Add different mix-ins like diced bell peppers or corn for a sweet crunch.
- Try using different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a little heat or feta for a Mediterranean flair.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with ground oats or almond flour.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make Tuna Melt Patties?
On average, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish to whip up these delicious patties.
Can I substitute the tuna for something else?
Absolutely! You can use canned salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian alternative, keeping the other flavors in the recipe intact.
How do I know when the patties are done?
Look for a golden-brown crust on both sides, which indicates they are cooked and crispy. The cheese should be melted for that delightful gooeyness!
Can I make Tuna Melt Patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them in advance by mixing the ingredients and forming patties, then refrigerating them until you are ready to cook.
Print
Tuna Melt Patties
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Delicious and crispy Tuna Melt Patties that combine savory tuna and melty cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients (tuna, garlic powder, green onions, onion powder, egg, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, black pepper, salt, breadcrumbs) in a large bowl until combined.
- Fold in the cheddar cheese gently.
- Form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted.
- Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, optionally topping with additional cheese.
Notes
For extra crispy patties, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the tuna cakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American