tuna patty recipe

The Best tuna patty recipe

Classic Tuna Patty with Crispy Dough

4.8 from 1794 votes

A delightful fusion of tuna and flaky bread dough, creating a savory patty perfect for sandwiches or as a standalone dish. Light, crispy, and packed with flavor!

🖨️ Print Recipe📌 Pin Recipe❤️ Add to Collection

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time60 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Tuna Patty

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp finely chopped celery
• 1 tbsp finely chopped green onions
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

For the Crispy Dough

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

For Serving

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2
   In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, celery, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Set aside.
3. 3
   In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Add egg and melted butter, mixing until a dough forms. Stir in parsley if using.
4. 4
   Roll the dough into a thin rectangle (about 1/8-inch thick) and cut into 4 equal patties. Place patties on the prepared baking sheet.
5. 5
   Bake for 10 minutes. Flip patties and brush lightly with olive oil. Bake for another 10 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. 6
   While patties bake, mix lemon juice and chopped dill (if using) in a small bowl. Once done, let patties cool slightly, then brush with the lemon-dill mixture.
7. 7
   Serve warm with your favorite sandwich bread or as a standalone appetizer.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Cooking spray

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 100🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 35🥦Dietary Fiber: 2🍬Sugars: 3🥩Protein: 25

📝Notes

Tips

• For extra crispiness, press the patties lightly with a fork before baking.
• Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
• Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for added flavor.

Storage: {“fridge”:”Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.”,”freezer”:”Freeze cooked patties for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.”}

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Patty with Crispy Dough

What is the best way to prepare tuna patties for optimal texture and flavor?

The best way to prepare tuna patties involves using fresh, high-quality tuna fillets (preferably canned in water or oil for better texture). Mix the tuna with finely chopped onions, celery, and a bit of Dijon mustard or soy sauce for flavor. Add a beaten egg for binding, and season with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Pound the mixture to an even thickness (about ½ inch) to ensure even cooking. Pan-fry in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides—about 4-5 minutes per side—rather than deep-frying to maintain a tender texture.

—

Can I use frozen tuna fillets in tuna patties, and if so, how do I adjust the recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen tuna fillets, but you’ll need to thaw them first in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy patty. For best results, mix the thawed tuna with a slightly larger quantity of binding agents (like breadcrumbs, egg, or flaxseed meal) to compensate for any moisture. If the patty feels too wet, add 1-2 tbsp of finely chopped breadcrumbs or cornstarch to absorb excess liquid. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense texture.

—

What are some great side dishes to pair with tuna patties?

Tuna patties pair well with a variety of sides. For a classic combo, serve them with cool cucumber salad (diced cucumbers, red onion, lemon juice, and olive oil) or creamy coleslaw (shredded cabbage, carrots, mayo, and vinegar). A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette or a warm potato salad (with a touch of mustard and mayo) balances the richness. For something heartier, try mashed sweet potatoes or steamed green beans with almonds. A simple pickled red onion or avocado slices also add a refreshing contrast.

—

How do I prevent tuna patties from falling apart while cooking?

To keep tuna patties intact, follow these key steps: 1) Use a binding agent like an egg, breadcrumbs, or a mix of flaxseed meal and water (for a vegan option). 2) Press the mixture gently but firmly into the pan to form an even patty without overworking it. 3) Cook over medium heat—too high heat can cause the patty to dry out and fall apart. 4) Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook patties in batches if needed to ensure even browning. If the patty starts to break apart, try lowering the heat slightly or adding a bit more binding agent to the mixture.

—

Can I make tuna patties ahead of time and reheat them safely?

Yes, you can prep tuna patties in advance, but handle them carefully to avoid spoilage. Make-ahead tip: Shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours (they’ll firm up slightly). To reheat, pan-fry again for 2-3 minutes per side until warm and lightly crispy, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes on a lined baking sheet. Avoid microwaving raw patties, as they can become rubbery or develop a slimy texture. If storing, keep them in an airtight container with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.