Savoring every bite of these Tuna Melt Patties feels like wrapping comfort food in a perfectly golden-brown hug. Tender flakes of tuna mingle with creamy mayonnaise and a zing of Dijon mustard, making each patty a harmonious blend of flavors. As you press them gently into shape, you can already sense the savory promise that awaits. The addition of garlic and onion powders, coupled with a touch of black pepper and salt, ensures each mouthful has just the right amount of warmth and depth—enough to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior looking for a fuss-free dinner or a home cook wanting to impress without hours in the kitchen, these patties deliver big on taste with minimal effort.
What makes these patties truly shine is the vibrant crunch of finely chopped celery and red onion, plus the bright pop of fresh parsley that cuts through the richness. A beaten egg and shredded cheddar cheese bind everything together, creating patties that are tender inside and perfectly crisp on the outside. With a total preparation time of about 15 minutes, cooking time of 8 minutes, and a short 5-minute rest, you’ll be plating up a delicious dish in no time. At just around 350 calories per serving, they make an ideal main course for lunch or dinner, and they’re accessible even if you’re new to the kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that make these Tuna Melt Patties a standout in any home cook’s repertoire!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN TUNA MELT PATTIES
Every great recipe starts with great ingredients. In this section, we’ll explore each component that brings our Tuna Melt Patties to life, highlighting the role they play in flavor, texture, and overall deliciousness.
- Tuna
Flaky and mild, canned tuna in water creates the hearty base of these patties. Draining well ensures the mixture isn’t watery and allows the other flavors to shine.
- Mayonnaise
Adds luscious creaminess and helps bind the tuna together. It also provides a smooth mouthfeel that balances the tang of mustard.
- Dijon mustard
Brings a zesty kick with a hint of spice, lifting the overall flavor profile and preventing the patties from tasting too rich.
- Garlic powder
Offers a subtle, savory undertone without the sharpness of fresh garlic. It melds seamlessly into the mixture for consistent flavor.
- Onion powder
Enhances the savory depth and echoes the fresh onion without adding extra moisture, maintaining the patties’ structure.
- Black pepper
Delivers a gentle heat and complexity, rounding out the flavors with aromatic bite.
- Salt
Vital for elevating all the other flavors, ensuring the patties taste balanced and delicious.
- Celery
Provides crisp texture and a mild, refreshing flavor. The finely chopped stalk adds a pleasant crunch in every bite.
- Red onion
Injects sharpness and color. Its finely chopped pieces create bursts of savory sweetness throughout the patties.
- Fresh parsley
Contributes bright, herby notes that cut through the richness, offering a fresh contrast and visual appeal.
- Egg
Acts as a natural binder, helping the patties hold their shape during cooking and adding a tender bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Melts into pockets of gooey goodness, lending a tangy, comforting dimension and rich color.
- Breadcrumbs
Absorb excess moisture and provide structure, ensuring the patties hold together while frying to a perfect crisp.
- Olive oil
Used for frying, it creates a golden-brown crust and adds a hint of fruitiness that complements the tuna mixture.
HOW TO MAKE TUNA MELT PATTIES
Now that you know the building blocks, it’s time to bring everything together and transform these ingredients into mouthwatering Tuna Melt Patties. Follow these steps to achieve tender, golden patties that hold their shape and burst with flavor.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Stir well until every flake of tuna is coated in the creamy mixture, ensuring a uniform base for the patties.
2. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine thoroughly, allowing the spices to distribute evenly and layer the flavors.
3. Gently fold in the finely chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley, making sure the crunchy vegetables and fresh herbs are dispersed throughout the tuna mixture.
4. Add the beaten egg and shredded cheddar cheese, then stir until the cheese begins to meld with the tuna, creating a cohesive, sticky mixture.
5. Gradually incorporate the breadcrumbs, stirring until the mixture holds together when pressed into a ball. The breadcrumbs will absorb any extra moisture and provide structure.
6. Form the tuna mixture into 6 evenly sized patties, pressing gently to ensure they maintain their shape and thickness.
7. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, gently place the patties into the skillet, leaving space between each.
8. Cook the patties for about 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and heated through. Resist the temptation to flip them too soon to ensure a perfect crust.
9. Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel–lined plate to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crisp.
10. Serve warm, garnishing with extra parsley if desired, and enjoy these delicious Tuna Melt Patties at their best.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR TUNA MELT PATTIES
Tuna Melt Patties are delightfully versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or packing a satisfying lunch, these suggestions will help you serve them in style.
- Classic Sandwich Style
Layer a warm patty on toasted bread with a slice of melty mozzarella or Swiss cheese, fresh lettuce, and tomato. Spread a thin coat of mustard aioli for extra tang and enjoy a handheld comfort meal.
- Salad Topper
Place a patty atop a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and avocado. Drizzle with a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness and make a protein-packed, refreshing lunch.
- Mini Slider Appetizers
Cut slider buns in half and top each with a bite-sized patty, a dab of tartar sauce, and pickle slices. Secure with a toothpick for a fun, crowd-pleasing starter.
- Open-Faced Platter
Serve each patty on a slice of crusty baguette with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of mixed olives or pickles. This elegant presentation is perfect for casual entertaining.
HOW TO STORE TUNA MELT PATTIES
Proper storage is key to keeping your patties as delicious as the day you made them. Whether you have leftovers to enjoy later or want to meal prep for the week, these tips will help maintain their flavor and texture.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Place cooled patties in a single layer or separated by parchment paper. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.
- Freeze for Longer Storage
Flash-freeze patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep up to 2 months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
- Reheat with Care
Warm refrigerated or thawed patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or in a skillet over low heat. This preserves the crisp exterior without drying out the interior.
- Label and Date
Always label containers or bags with the date, so you can track freshness and enjoy your patties while they’re at their best.
CONCLUSION
Thank you for joining me on this flavorful journey through the world of Tuna Melt Patties. We’ve covered everything from selecting and prepping your key ingredients to shaping and cooking each patty until it’s golden and fragrant. Throughout this article, you’ve seen how pantry staples like tuna, mayonnaise, and breadcrumbs transform into a comforting, protein-packed meal in under half an hour. Whether you’re a beginner home cook or a seasoned kitchen enthusiast, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and ease—making it a go-to for lunches, dinners, or snack-time cravings. Feel free to print this article or save it for later reference in your recipe binder, so you can recreate these patties whenever the mood strikes.
Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to answer common questions, from tweaking spice levels to customizing serving sizes. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your feedback, or ask any questions you might have about the process. Your experiences and tips can help fellow home cooks perfect their patties and enjoy every savory, cheesy bite. Happy cooking, and I look forward to hearing from you!
Tuna Melt Patties
Description
These tuna melt patties pack a delightful combination of tender tuna, creamy cheese, and seasonings, all perfectly pan-fried for a golden-brown finish. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Stir well to ensure the tuna is evenly coated.
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Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Stir to combine.
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Fold in the finely chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley. Ensure all ingredients are well-mixed.
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Add the beaten egg and shredded cheddar cheese to the tuna mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.
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Gradually add the breadcrumbs to the mixture, stirring until the mixture holds together when formed into a ball.
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Form the tuna mixture into 6 evenly sized patties.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, gently place the patties into the skillet.
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Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
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Remove from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
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Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Note
- Using whole grain mustard instead of Dijon can give these patties an extra tangy taste.
- For a more indulgent version, you can add a slice of mozzarella or Swiss cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of frying.
- These patties are perfect as a main dish, in a sandwich, or as a topping for a fresh salad.
- Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
