Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option that the whole family will love, then this Tuna Melt Patties Recipe is just what you need! These little gems are crispy on the outside and packed with melty goodness on the inside. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, they can be whipped up in less than 20 minutes. Plus, they use simple pantry staples, making them an easy go-to meal when you’re short on time or ingredients.

What makes these tuna melt patties so special is their versatile nature. You can serve them as a hearty sandwich, on toasted bread, or alongside a crisp salad. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy flavor and crispy texture of these patties.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare the mixture ahead of time and cook them when you’re ready to eat.
• Budget-Friendly: Made from affordable ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tuna, cheese, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Gather these pantry staples and get ready to create something delicious.

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

This Tuna Melt Patties Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Swap the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some finely chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the binder: Use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to heat things up!

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 well ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully. This step is crucial because it sets the foundation for your patties’ taste.

Step 2: Add Cheese & Shape Patties

Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped green onions next. These ingredients not only add flavor but also help bind everything together. Form the mixture into 4-5 patties. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they’ll still turn out delicious!

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted. Carefully place each patty in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they become golden brown and crispy. Cooking them this way gives that delightful crunch we all love!

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your tuna melt patties warm on toasted bread or English muffins, or simply enjoy them alongside a fresh salad. For an extra cheesy finish, top with additional cheese and pop them under the broiler for just one minute. You’re going to love every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

These tips will help you create the best Tuna Melt Patties that are not only delicious but also easy to make!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh green onions and quality canned tuna make a significant difference in flavor. This ensures your patties are vibrant and full of taste.

• Chill the mixture: If you’re having trouble shaping the patties, refrigerate the mixture for about 15 minutes before forming them. Chilling helps it hold together better when cooking.

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking in batches allows each patty to achieve that perfect golden crisp. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of frying, resulting in soggy patties.

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar is fantastic, feel free to swap it out with mozzarella or pepper jack for added creaminess and a little kick. Different cheeses can bring unique flavors to your patties.

• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve these patties right after cooking. They are crispiest when enjoyed fresh off the skillet!

How to Serve Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Serving your Tuna Melt Patties creatively can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this scrumptious dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill on top of your patties for a burst of color and freshness.
• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices on the side or on top of your patty for extra richness.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances out the rich flavors of the cheese and tuna.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the patties, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness while keeping things fun and casual—perfect for dipping!
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers pair beautifully with the patties, adding color and nutrition to your plate.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have an impressive meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy your culinary adventure with these Tuna Melt Patties!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tuna Melt Patties are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for quick meals throughout the week, making dinner a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of patties to prevent sticking.
• Reheat in a skillet or microwave as needed.

Freezing

• To freeze, place uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer patties to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat thawed patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but they may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Have questions about the Tuna Melt Patties Recipe? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use canned fish other than tuna for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute canned salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version, just adjust the seasoning to your taste.

What do I serve with Tuna Melt Patties?

These patties are versatile! Serve them with toasted bread, in a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad. They also pair well with dipping sauces like tartar sauce or aioli.

How do I customize the Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to the mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or feta!

How long does it take to make Tuna Melt Patties?

This recipe is quick and easy—prep and cook time combined takes just about 18 minutes!

Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make your Tuna Melt Patties Recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Tuna Melt Patties as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for busy days. Remember, cooking is all about love and creativity—so feel free to put your own spin on this recipe. Happy cooking!