Tuna Patties

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

Tuna patties are a quick and flavorful seafood option, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The savory mixture of tuna, egg, and seasonings is pan-fried to a golden brown, offering a satisfying crunch and rich taste. Ideal for seafood lovers and those seeking an easy, protein-packed meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 can tuna, drained
  • 1 egg
  • salt
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • dash of pepper
  • 2 1/2 Tbsp flour

Instructions

  1. Mix the drained tuna, egg, salt, baking powder, pepper, and flour in a bowl until well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick.
  3. Heat a lightly greased skillet over medium heat.
  4. Fry the patties until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like parsley or dill to the tuna mixture. If you don't have flour, breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can work as a substitute. For a crispier texture, consider chilling the patties for 15-20 minutes before frying. You can also experiment with spices, such as garlic powder or paprika, to elevate the taste. These Tuna Patties are a great alternative to traditional Tuna Fish Burgers.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tuna patties with a squeeze of lemon juice and a side of mixed green salad for a refreshing meal. They pair wonderfully with a dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or a spicy mayo. For a heartier option, consider serving them on a bun with lettuce and tomato, similar to a Tuna Fish Burger, making it a perfect lunch or dinner option.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover tuna patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 30-45 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tuna Patties contains roughly 418 calories, with 7g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2505mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).

418 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.3g 15% DV
Total Fat 6.4g 8% DV
Carbs 85.1g 31% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2505.4mg 100% DV
Potassium 548mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 258.5mg 86% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 63.4mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 1.4mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 494.1mg 38% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
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! Just cook it first until it's fully cooked and flaky, then mix it with the other ingredients. Be sure to adjust the quantity to about 1 cup of cooked, flaked tuna for the best results.

What can I serve with tuna patties?

Tuna patties are versatile; they can be served with a variety of sides. Consider a fresh mixed green salad, roasted vegetables, or even sweet potato fries. They also pair nicely with a light dipping sauce like tzatziki or a spicy aioli.

Can I freeze the patties before frying?

Absolutely! You can freeze the formed patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. When ready to cook, simply fry them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

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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