Quick & Easy Tuna Patties: Your Go-To Recipe for Delicious Weeknight Meals

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare wholesome and satisfying meals can be a challenge. That’s why simple, quick, and delicious recipes that rely on ingredients you already have on hand are invaluable. This recipe for Quick Tuna Patties is a perfect example, designed to be a lifesaver on even the most hectic weeknights. With minimal prep, mixing, and cleanup – think just about ten minutes – these flavorful patties are ready to be pan-fried into a hot, comforting meal for your family.

Beyond their speed, these tuna patties offer fantastic flexibility. If you have a few extra minutes the night before or earlier in the day, you can easily prepare them ahead of time. Simply shape the patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, separated by wax paper, ready to be cooked within a day. This makes them an ideal option for meal prepping and ensures a fresh, homemade dinner is always just a quick fry away.

Canned Albacore Tuna for quick tuna patties — High-quality canned Albacore Tuna, a key ingredient for delicious tuna patties.

The Magic of Pantry Staples: A Foundation for Easy Cooking

The beauty of this quick tuna patty recipe lies in its reliance on common pantry staples. These are the ingredients that are always there when you need them, making spontaneous meal creation a breeze. Let’s explore why two of our star ingredients, tuna and breadcrumbs, are essential for any well-stocked kitchen.

Tuna: A Versatile Protein Powerhouse

Canned tuna is a true culinary hero. We always make sure to keep a generous supply in our pantry, and for good reason. It’s not only an incredibly tasty and affordable protein source but also remarkably versatile. Tuna provides essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet.

To maximize savings, I often purchase tuna by the case – ten or twelve cans at a time – from bulk stores. However, you can frequently find great deals and sales on individual cans at your local supermarket as well. Canned goods are known for their impressive shelf-life, with expiration dates typically giving you at least two years to enjoy them. This long usability, coupled with its nutritional benefits and affordability, makes canned tuna an undeniable must-have for your cupboard. If you haven’t made it a habit to stock up on a few cans, now is the perfect time to start.

When selecting tuna, you’ll find varieties like albacore (white tuna) or skipjack (light tuna). While both work, we generally recommend using tuna packed in water rather than oil for these patties, as it provides a lighter texture and allows other flavors to shine through more easily. Always remember to drain your tuna thoroughly before mixing to prevent soggy patties.

Breadcrumbs: The Unsung Hero of Binding and Flavor

Dry breadcrumbs are another non-negotiable item in my kitchen. They play a crucial role in binding the patty ingredients together and adding a pleasant texture. I personally gravitate towards the larger canisters found at bulk stores, but the convenience of smaller containers from the grocery store is also appealing, as they ensure I use them up before they ever have a chance to go stale.

My go-to choice is Italian-flavored breadcrumbs. I find their blend of herbs and spices – typically including oregano, basil, and garlic – imparts a wonderful earthy, aromatic, and slightly savory note to any dish, including these tuna patties. This is a personal preference, of course, and if you prefer to use plain breadcrumbs, that’s perfectly fine! The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Plain breadcrumbs allow you to customize the seasoning entirely to your liking. Tuna pairs exceptionally well with a wide range of flavors, from the zesty kick of Old Bay seasoning to the fresh aroma of dill. So, feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to truly make this recipe your own.

Quick Tuna Patties

3.7 from 199 votes

Ingredients

3 5 oz. cans tuna
2 eggs
10 tablespoons Italian bread crumbs
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 tablespoons white or yellow onion, finely diced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon dry parsley
1 pinch black pepper

Directions

Drain tuna thoroughly after opening cans.
In a mixing bowl, beat eggs. Add Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, lemon juice, garlic salt, and black pepper to create a well-combined paste. Gently mix in the drained tuna, finely diced onion, and dry parsley. Shape the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick. This recipe yields approximately 8 patties.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-low to medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Pan-fry the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and heated through.

Notes and Customization Tips

Garlic Salt Substitute: If you don’t have garlic salt, simply use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and add two pinches of regular salt to taste.
Italian Breadcrumb Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, use plain breadcrumbs and add 1 teaspoon of a dried Italian seasoning herb blend, or combine 1/2 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano.
Cheese Swaps: Aged Asiago, Grana Padano, or Pecorino Romano make excellent substitutes for Parmesan cheese, each offering its own distinct savory depth.
Onion Variations: For a milder, slightly sweeter onion flavor, finely diced shallots are a fantastic alternative to white or yellow onions.
Tuna Type: While you can use your favorite variety of tuna, we highly recommend using tuna packed in water over oil. It results in lighter, less greasy patties.
Make-Ahead & Freezing: Prepare patties as directed, but do not cook. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Transfer to an airtight freezer bag or container, separated by wax paper. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frying.
Baking Option: For a lighter version, bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.
Air Frying Option: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray patties with cooking oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Serving Your Delicious Tuna Patties: Creative Pairings and More

The versatility of these quick tuna patties extends well beyond their easy preparation. They can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways, making them a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these patties deliver on flavor and adaptability.

Classic Pairings and Creative Ideas

For a classic American comfort meal, simply pop them into a toasted hamburger bun with your favorite toppings, creating a hearty and satisfying tuna burger. Alternatively, they make an excellent filling for a sandwich, nestled between two slices of bread with lettuce, tomato, and a smear of sauce. If you’re aiming for a lighter option, serve them as a savory patty alongside a fresh, crisp salad or any steamed or roasted vegetable side dish.

When you have a bit more time, consider serving your tuna patties over a bowl of fluffy rice or quinoa, perhaps topped with some sautéed veggies for a complete and nutritious meal. They can also be made into smaller, bite-sized “tuna bites” for appetizers or served with a fried egg for a protein-packed breakfast or brunch. No matter how we choose to enjoy them – as sandwiches, part of a plated meal, or even straight from the pan – they are always best when accompanied by a generous dollop of creamy tartar sauce.

Homemade tartar sauce for tuna patties — Homemade tartar sauce: the perfect creamy condiment for tuna patties.

The Perfect Accompaniment: Homemade Tartar Sauce

While store-bought tartar sauce is an option, making your own at home is incredibly simple and yields a fresher, more vibrant flavor. If you don’t typically keep it on hand, you can whip up a fantastic batch in minutes with just a few ingredients.

Simple Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe: Combine 1/2 cup of good quality mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of finely diced dill pickle, 1 tablespoon of dill pickle brine (taken directly from the pickle jar for an extra tangy kick), 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill. Mix everything thoroughly and chill for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The result is a creamy, tangy, and herbaceous sauce that beautifully complements the savory tuna patties.

Feel free to customize your tartar sauce further. You can add finely chopped capers for a briny pop, a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat, or fresh chives or parsley for added freshness. Some people enjoy a touch of Dijon mustard or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. The beauty of homemade is that you control every element to match your preference.

Why Tuna Patties Are a Weeknight Winner

Quick tuna patties are more than just a recipe; they’re a solution for busy households. They embody convenience, affordability, and deliciousness in one simple package. They transform humble pantry ingredients into a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy, proving that healthy and tasty food doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

So, next time you’re staring into your pantry, wondering what to make for dinner, remember these quick and easy tuna patties. They’re a testament to the fact that with a little creativity and a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s both fuss-free and utterly delightful. Give this recipe a try, experiment with your favorite seasonings, and discover your new go-to weeknight hero!