Tuna melt patties are a fantastic twist on the classic tuna melt sandwich. These savory little cakes combine the flavors of tuna, cheese, and breadcrumbs for a delightful and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a tasty dinner, or a party appetizer, tuna melt patties are sure to hit the spot.
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The Versatility of Tuna Melt Patties
Tuna is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic tuna salad to innovative recipes like these tuna melt patties. The combination of canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and melted cheese creates a delicious and satisfying patty that can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Serve them on toasted bread or English muffins for a classic tuna melt sandwich, or enjoy them on their own as a tasty appetizer or main course.
Ingredients for Tuna Melt Patties
To make these delectable tuna melt patties, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) canned tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp butter (for frying)
The canned tuna is the star of the show, providing a flavorful base for the patties. The breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together, while the mayonnaise and egg add moisture and richness. The Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder bring a savory depth of flavor, and the cheddar cheese and green onions add a delightful cheesy and herbal touch.
How to Make Tuna Melt Patties
Preparing these tuna melt patties is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and green onions until well combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty.
- Cook Patties: Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Enjoy the tuna melt patties as is, or serve them on toasted bread or English muffins for a delicious tuna melt sandwich.

Serving Suggestions and Variations
The beauty of tuna melt patties is their versatility. Serve them on a variety of breads, such as toasted sourdough, rye, or whole wheat, for a classic tuna melt sandwich. Top them with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, or a dollop of tangy pickle relish for added flavor and texture.
For a twist on the classic, try substituting the cheddar cheese with other melty varieties like Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as dried herbs, spicy paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper, to suit your taste preferences.
Serve the tuna melt patties as a main course with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. They also make an excellent appetizer, perfect for entertaining or game day snacking.
Nutritional Information
One serving of these tuna melt patties (1 patty) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. By using canned tuna, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits of this versatile fish without the hassle of fresh preparation. To make the dish even healthier, you can use low-fat or reduced-fat mayonnaise and opt for whole grain breadcrumbs.
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FAQ
What is the secret to a good tuna melt?
The secret to a delicious tuna melt is all about the balance of flavors and textures. The key is to use high-quality canned tuna that is well-drained, mix it with the right amount of mayonnaise (not too much or too little), and pair it with a melty, gooey cheese like cheddar or Swiss. Toasting the bread or English muffin also helps create a satisfying crunch.
How to make tasty tuna patties?
To make tasty tuna patties, the key is to add the right mix of ingredients to the canned tuna. Breadcrumbs help bind the patties together, while mayonnaise, egg, and seasonings like Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the flavor. Shredded cheese and chopped green onions also add a delightful cheesy and herbal touch to the patties.
What’s the best oil to cook tuna melt patties in?
For cooking tuna melt patties, the best oil to use is butter. The rich, nutty flavor of butter complements the tuna and helps create a beautifully crispy exterior on the patties. You can also use a combination of butter and a small amount of olive oil or canola oil, which can help raise the smoke point and prevent the butter from burning.
What kind of tuna is best for patties?
The best type of tuna for making tuna melt patties is canned tuna. Canned tuna is already cooked and flaked, making it the perfect base for forming into patties. You can use either water-packed or oil-packed tuna, depending on your personal preference. Water-packed tuna tends to be a bit drier, while oil-packed tuna is more moist and flavorful.
Conclusion
Tuna melt patties are a delightful twist on the classic tuna melt sandwich. With their savory flavors, crispy exteriors, and melty cheese, these patties are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish, a quick lunch, or a tasty appetizer, tuna melt patties are a versatile and satisfying culinary creation. Give this recipe a try and experience the magic of this unique and delicious dish!
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Enjoy Flavorful Tuna Melt Patties for a Quick Meal Delight
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 patties 1x
Description
Tuna melt patties are a delightful twist on the classic tuna melt sandwich. With their savory flavors, crispy exteriors, and melty cheese, these patties are sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish, a quick lunch, or a tasty appetizer, tuna melt patties are a versatile and satisfying culinary creation.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 ounce each) canned tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
Instructions
1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, and green onions until well combined.
2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty.
3. Cook Patties: Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve: Enjoy the tuna melt patties as is, or serve them on toasted bread or English muffins for a delicious tuna melt sandwich.
Notes
One serving of these tuna melt patties (1 patty) contains approximately:
Calories: 250
Protein: 19g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 12g
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 250
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Unsaturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Protein: 19
- Cholesterol: 70