Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, then you’ve come to the right place! My Tuna Melt Patties Recipe is a cherished favorite in our home. They are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside. These patties are not just easy to whip up, but they’re also incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that can be made in under 20 minutes?

What makes these Tuna Melt Patties even more special is how versatile they are. You can serve them in a sandwich, alongside a fresh salad, or even as an appetizer at your next get-together. No matter the occasion, they’re sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 18 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness and crispy texture of these patties.
• Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients like canned tuna and breadcrumbs, this dish won’t break the bank.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on toasted bread, in a wrap, or with a side of veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the mixture ahead of time and cook them when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Tuna Melt Patties! You might already have most of these in your pantry, which makes prepping this meal even easier.

For the Patties

• 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
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter, for cooking

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the cheese: Try using different types of cheese like pepper jack for a bit of spice or feta for a tangy twist.
• Add some veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the patty mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives for a suitable option.
• Change up the protein: If you’re not in the mood for tuna, use canned salmon or chickpeas for a vegetarian version!

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna with breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients well is essential because it ensures that each patty is packed with flavor. The combination of mayo and mustard gives it that classic tuna melt taste we all love!

Step 2: Add Cheese & Shape Patties

Next, stir in the shredded cheese and chopped green onions into your mixture. This step adds creaminess from the cheese and freshness from the green onions. Now it’s time to form your mixture into 4-5 patties. Make sure they’re not too thick so they cook evenly!

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place each patty into the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial because it creates that delightful crunch while keeping everything inside warm and melty.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Finally, serve your Tuna Melt Patties on toasted bread or English muffins. You could even pair them with a fresh salad for a lighter option! For an extra cheesy finish, consider topping them with more cheese and placing them under the broiler for just a minute—yum!

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Tuna Melt Patties! They’re sure to become a new favorite in your household. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Creating the perfect Tuna Melt Patties is easy with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and high-quality canned tuna can elevate the flavor of your patties, making them more vibrant and tasty.
• Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more mayonnaise or an extra egg. This will help keep your patties moist and bind them well.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combining the ingredients prevents the patties from becoming tough. A light touch ensures a tender and flaky texture.
• Heat Your Pan Properly: Make sure your skillet is pre-heated before adding the patties. This helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside melty.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to swap cheddar for other cheeses like pepper jack or feta. Different cheeses can add unique flavors that complement the tuna beautifully.

How to Serve Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Serving these Tuna Melt Patties is as fun as making them! Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or as part of a larger meal, there are plenty of ways to present this tasty dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or dill can brighten up your plate and add a burst of freshness.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the overall taste, cutting through richness and adding brightness.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the rich flavors of the patties while adding crunch.
• Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet, crispy contrast to the savory patties. Baked or fried, they make for a delightful pairing.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers freshness and crunch, balancing out the richness of the tuna melt patties perfectly.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients to your meal without overwhelming the flavors of the main dish.

Now that you have all these serving suggestions and pro tips, it’s time to enjoy making and sharing these delightful Tuna Melt Patties with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tuna Melt Patties are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or quick lunches.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cooked patties to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Before cooking, you can freeze uncooked patties.
• Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen patties, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Alternatively, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar and Swiss work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for added flavor.

How long does it take to cook the Tuna Melt Patties?

This Tuna Melt Patties Recipe takes just about 18 minutes from start to finish—10 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cooking!

Can I make these patties without an egg?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water). This will help bind the ingredients together just like an egg would.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Tuna Melt Patties! They’re a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re serving them on their own or as part of a delicious sandwich, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. So why not give it a try? Happy cooking!