Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, these Tuna Melt Patties Recipe are a delightful twist on the classic tuna melt. Perfect for lunch or dinner, they are quick to prepare and budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples like canned tuna and breadcrumbs, this recipe will satisfy your cravings in under 20 minutes. Whether served on toasted bread, as a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, these patties are sure to impress at any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 18 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using affordable ingredients like canned tuna means you can whip up a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the cheese or add vegetables to make these patties your own!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, in a sandwich, or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy goodness and crispy texture of these patties!

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious Tuna Melt Patties, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients evenly. It allows you to easily mix everything together without making a mess.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures that your patties cook evenly and don’t stick while frying.
• Spatula: Use a spatula to flip the patties gently without breaking them apart, ensuring they stay intact while cooking.

Ingredients

For the Tuna Mixture

• 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

For the Cheese and Garnish

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon butter, for cooking

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Add Cheese & Shape Patties

Stir in the shredded cheese and chopped green onions until evenly distributed. Form the mixture into 4-5 equal-sized patties.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Tuna Melt Patties on toasted bread or English muffins. For an extra cheesy finish, top with additional cheese and place under the broiler for one minute before serving. Enjoy with a fresh salad or as part of a tasty sandwich!

How to Serve Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

These Tuna Melt Patties are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them in a sandwich or with sides, there are plenty of options to enhance your meal experience.

On Toasted Bread

• Serve the patties on your choice of toasted bread for a classic sandwich experience. You can add lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.

With English Muffins

• Place the patties on split English muffins to create a delicious open-faced sandwich. This adds a unique twist and is great for brunch.

Side Salad

• Pair the patties with a fresh garden salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers complements the flavors perfectly.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, top each patty with additional shredded cheese and broil for a minute. This creates an irresistible cheesy crust.

As Appetizers

• Cut the patties into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at parties or gatherings. They’re easy to grab and enjoy!

How to Perfect Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

To make the best Tuna Melt Patties, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your patties turn out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh green onions and high-quality canned tuna to elevate the flavor of your patties.

• Chill Mixture: If time allows, chill the tuna mixture for 15-30 minutes before shaping into patties. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to maintain texture in your patties. Overmixing can lead to a dense result.

• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak spices like garlic powder or onion powder based on your taste preferences for a customized flavor.

• Cook at Right Temperature: Ensure your skillet is preheated properly for even cooking and that each side gets that perfect golden-brown color.

Best Side Dishes for Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Tuna Melt Patties can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options:

1. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the warm patties. You can make it quickly using shredded cabbage, carrots, and your favorite dressing.

2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness that complements the savory patties well. Bake or fry them for a delightful crunch.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate. Simply season with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a hearty side that pairs nicely with the lightness of tuna patties.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers healthy grains alongside your meal, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.

6. Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the patties, making them an ideal accomplice on the plate.

7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and crunch, creating a wonderful texture contrast next to the tuna melt patties.

8. Macaroni Salad: A creamy macaroni salad balances out flavors well while being easy to prepare ahead of time for stress-free serving!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuna Melt Patties can be simple, but small oversights can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Skipping the Drainage: Failing to drain the tuna properly can lead to soggy patties. Always ensure your canned tuna is well-drained before mixing it with other ingredients.

• Not Mixing Well: A poorly mixed batter may result in uneven texture and flavor. Take your time to mix all ingredients thoroughly for a consistent taste.

• Overcooking Patties: Cooking patties too long can make them dry. Monitor them closely and remove from heat once they are golden brown on both sides.

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Cheaper cheeses may not melt well or provide enough flavor. Opt for high-quality cheddar or Swiss cheese for the best results.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: If you skip tasting the mixture before cooking, you may miss out on enhancing flavors. Adjust seasonings according to your preference for a tastier patty.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

• Place cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a little butter, and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best type of tuna for Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

Chunk light tuna is often recommended because it has a milder flavor and is easy to work with. However, you can use albacore for a firmer texture if preferred.

Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Tuna Melt Patties.

How long does it take to make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 8 minutes of cooking, totaling around 18 minutes from start to finish.

Can I customize my Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs, spices, or vegetables like bell peppers or corn to enhance flavors and textures according to your taste.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

While this recipe focuses on tuna, you could substitute the tuna with mashed chickpeas or lentils combined with similar seasoning for a vegetarian version that still delivers great taste.

Final Thoughts

These Tuna Melt Patties are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. They can be served in various ways—on bread, alongside salads, or even as standalone snacks. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients or spices; the possibilities are endless!