Time for a glow-up: Tuna Patties that are actually delicious
Like tuna noodle casserole, tuna patties have historically gotten a bad rap. Mid-century American home cooks would often slap these economical meals together as a way to feed a family; the result was often a ho-hum, mushy meal without much flavor. Not super appetizing! However, just like other underrated dishes (think meatloaf, chicken and rice, or pot roast), if you do them right, they’re golden.
So how do you make tuna patties so they are less ho-hum and more of a hit at the dinner table? Use high-quality, flavor-packed ingredients like albacore tuna, good Parmesan cheese, and seasoned bread crumbs. Even picky eaters will enjoy these crispy patties, especially when they squeeze fresh lemon on them.
When done right, tuna patties are a great family meal that’s easy to throw together. Plus, canned tuna is an inexpensive source of protein and the other ingredients, even when high-quality, won’t break the bank.
FAQs & Tips
HOW DO I STORE LEFTOVERS?
Once cooled, store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them. For best results, you will want to place the cooled patties on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Then, place them in a resealable bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
USE A COOKIE SCOOP
While tuna is not the first thing that comes to mind when grabbing your cookie scoop, it’s a really useful tool in this recipe. A cookie scoop is the perfect size to portion out the patties and ensure they’re the same size.
PREVENT YOUR PATTIES FROM FALLING APART
If you notice your tuna patties tend to fall apart when cooking or flipping, give them time in the fridge to firm up. Once you form the patties in Step 3, place them on a plate, and set them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. A quick chill helps them stay together in the skillet. Additionally, make sure you dice the celery and onion very small; a uniform texture helps the patties stay intact.
Serving Suggestions
Condiments come to mind when thinking about what to serve with tuna patties. Tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, or a sriracha mayo are all lovely options. And don’t forget some extra lemon wedges!
As for sides, consider Microwave Mashed Potatoes or Seasoned Potato Wedges. If the weather is hot, try this Pasta Salad with Mayo for a cool bite.
Tuna Patties
Ingredients Â
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2/3 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated
- 15 ounces canned tuna in water drained
- 1/4 cup onion small diced
- 3 tablespoons celery small diced
- Crushed red pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- Preferred sauce for serving
InstructionsÂ
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and lemon juice together. Stir in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese until the mixture becomes pasty.
- Fold in the drained tuna, onion, celery, crushed red pepper, and black pepper.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch thick patties.
- Add the vegetable oil to a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the patties for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Work in batches if needed.
- Serve with fresh chopped parsley as a garnish and any desired sauce.
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