Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, this Tuna Melt Patties Recipe is just what you need! These patties bring together the comforting flavors of a classic tuna melt with a fun twist that makes them perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up crispy, cheesy goodness in under 20 minutes!
What makes this recipe special is its versatility. Whether you serve them on toasted bread, stuff them into a sandwich, or pair them with a fresh salad, they are sure to impress. Plus, they’re an easy way to get some protein into your meal without any fuss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these patties ready in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and crispy texture.
- Budget-Friendly: Using canned tuna and simple ingredients means you won’t break the bank.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Mix the patties ahead of time and cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cheese and seasonings makes every bite irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that these ingredients are simple and wholesome. Most of them are likely already in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to create these tasty Tuna Melt Patties.
Ingredients:
– 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
One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Swap the cheese: Use different types like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist!
- Add veggies: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Go gluten-free: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
How to Make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mixing well ensures that all flavors blend together harmoniously. You’re creating a flavor base that will make your patties taste fantastic!
Step 2: Add Cheese & Shape Patties
Stir in shredded cheese and green onions. Then, form the mixture into 4-5 patties. Shaping them evenly helps ensure they cook uniformly while giving each patty that deliciously crispy exterior everyone loves.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial because it creates that lovely crunch while keeping the inside melty and warm—just like any good tuna melt should be!
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Serve your delightful patties on toasted bread, English muffins, or alongside a fresh salad. For an extra cheesy finish, feel free to top with more cheese and place under the broiler for a minute! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Tuna Melt Patties!
Pro Tips for Making Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
These Tuna Melt Patties are not just easy to make; with a few tips, you can elevate them to perfection!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green onions and high-quality canned tuna can significantly enhance the flavor of your patties.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. Adding some paprika or cayenne pepper can give a nice kick!
- Chill before cooking: If you have time, let the formed patties rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking.
- Cook in batches: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the patties in batches. This ensures even cooking and keeps them crispy.
- Experiment with cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, try using pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
How to Serve Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
Serving these Tuna Melt Patties is all about creativity! You can enjoy them in various ways that suit any occasion.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill adds a burst of freshness and color to your patties.
- Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that complements the crispy patties perfectly.
- Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before eating brightens up the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers tossed in a vinaigrette pairs wonderfully, balancing out the richness of the patties.
- Sweet potato fries: Baked or air-fried sweet potato fries are a nutritious and tasty side that adds sweetness and crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy patties.
- Steamed vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition without overshadowing the main dish.
Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to dive into this delightful dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Make Ahead and Storage
These Tuna Melt Patties are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, store them for later, or even freeze them for future meals.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cooked patties to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
- To freeze, place uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- For refrigerated patties, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through.
- For frozen patties, cook from frozen in a skillet, increasing the cooking time to about 6-7 minutes per side.
- You can also reheat patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!
Can I use canned tuna in water for this Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned tuna packed in water works perfectly. Just make sure to drain it well so the mixture isn’t too watery.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in the Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?
You can use crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even ground oats as alternatives. Each will give a unique texture while still holding everything together.
How long does it take to prepare Tuna Melt Patties?
This recipe takes about 18 minutes from start to finish, making it an easy option for busy weeknights!
Can I add other ingredients to my Tuna Melt Patties?
Yes! Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers, jalapeños, or different types of cheese based on your preferences!
Are these Tuna Melt Patties suitable for freezing?
Definitely! They freeze well both before and after cooking. Just follow the freezing instructions provided earlier!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Tuna Melt Patties! They’re not just quick and easy; they’re also packed with flavor and perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or as part of a hearty sandwich, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out—happy cooking!
Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
If you’re in search of a quick and delectable meal that the whole family will adore, look no further than this Tuna Melt Patties Recipe! These patties combine the classic flavors of a tuna melt with a fun twist that makes them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can prepare crispy and cheesy patties in under 20 minutes! Serve them on toasted bread, stuff them into sandwiches, or pair them with a fresh salad for an effortless yet impressive dish. Enjoy the simplicity and satisfaction of these protein-packed delights!
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stir in shredded cheese and green onions. Shape the mixture into 4-5 evenly sized patties.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm on toasted bread or alongside a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
