Tuna Fish Cakes

Prep: 10 min Cook: 24 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Tuna fish cakes are crispy, flavorful patties perfect for quick meals or snacks, pairing well with noodles and salads for a complete, savory dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 (6 1/8 oz.) can dark tuna fish, not drained
  • 1/4 package broken crackers
  • 1 stalk celery, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 onion, chopped
  • pepper, powdered

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the tuna (undrained), broken crackers, chopped celery, beaten egg, chopped onion, and powdered pepper.
  2. Shape the mixture into individual cakes.
  3. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
  4. Brown the cakes in oil, about 12 minutes on each side, until golden and cooked through.
  5. Serve the tuna fish cakes with buttered noodles and green salad.

Tips & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the broken crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. You can also add herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños. Ensure the tuna is well-drained if you prefer a firmer cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the tuna fish cakes with buttered noodles and a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. They also pair beautifully with a side of tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon. For a more substantial dish, consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup like Broccoli And Crab Bisque.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover tuna fish cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through, or bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tuna Fish Cakes contains roughly 361 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 30g fat.

361 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 30.2g 39% DV
Carbs 20.8g 8% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 0.8g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 154.7mg 7% DV
Potassium 115.2mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 33.7mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 50.6mg 4% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Fish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna. Cook the fresh tuna beforehand, then flake it and combine it with the other ingredients. Just ensure it is fully cooked before forming the cakes.

What can I serve with tuna fish cakes?

Tuna fish cakes pair well with various sides such as buttered noodles, a crisp green salad, or even mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce like tartar sauce or a spicy aioli for added flavor.

How do I make the cakes crispier?

To achieve a crispier texture, consider adding a bit of flour or cornstarch to the mixture. Additionally, ensure your frying oil is hot enough before adding the cakes, and avoid overcrowding the pan to allow for even browning.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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