Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
All the classic comfort of a tuna melt—reimagined in crispy, cheesy patty form! These easy-to-make tuna melt patties are packed with protein, flavor, and melty goodness. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or low-carb lunches. Ready in under 30 minutes using pantry staples.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Cheese grater
- Measuring spoons & cup or scoop
- Spatula
- Frying pan, baking sheet, or air fryer
- Parchment paper (if baking)
Ingredients
- 2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup shredded cheddar (or cheese of choice)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (optional, for moisture)
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for keto/gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or spray for cooking
- Optional: extra cheese for topping
Instructions
- Drain and Flake Tuna: Open and drain tuna thoroughly. Flake into a mixing bowl.
- Mix: Add egg, shredded cheese, mayo (if using), breadcrumbs, mustard, green onions, herbs, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape: Use a ¼-cup scoop or hands to form 6–8 uniform patties.
- Chill (Optional): For firmer patties, refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before cooking.
Cook:
- Pan-Fry: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet and bake patties 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fry: Set to 375°F (190°C) and cook 8–10 minutes, flipping once.
- Optional Cheese Topping: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover briefly to melt.
- Serve: Let rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Make-Ahead: Patties can be prepped and chilled up to 1 day before cooking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze raw or cooked patties. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture.
- No Egg? Sub with 1 tbsp mayo + 1 tbsp ground flax mixed with 2 tbsp water.
- Customize It: Add hot sauce, chopped veggies, or alternate cheeses to suit your taste.