The Cheesiest Tuna Melt Patties Recipe: Golden, Crispy Comfort

Crafting these delectable tuna melt patties promises a culinary adventure that breaks free from ordinary sandwich expectations.

Seafood enthusiasts will adore this innovative twist on classic comfort food.

Tender chunks of fish combine with melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Crispy edges and a golden-brown exterior hint at the deliciousness waiting inside each patty.

Simple ingredients come together with minimal effort, making this recipe perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Perfectly seasoned and expertly balanced, these patties offer a delightful blend of protein and flavor.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this irresistible dish.

Why Tuna Melt Patties Are So Comforting and Delicious

• Craft Quick Protein-Packed Meal: Perfect solution for busy individuals seeking a nutritious and satisfying dinner that comes together faster than traditional recipes.
• Transform Classic Tuna Sandwich: Elevates the standard tuna sandwich by creating crispy, cheesy patties that deliver more flavor and texture than a basic sandwich.
• Versatile Serving Options: Flexible dish that adapts to different dining styles, whether served on a toasted bun, atop a fresh salad, or enjoyed as a standalone protein option.
• Minimal Kitchen Skills Required: Beginner-friendly recipe that requires simple mixing and basic cooking techniques, making it accessible for home cooks of all experience levels.

Ingredients for Tuna Melt Patties That Impress

• Tuna: A protein-rich fish that forms the core of this hearty patty.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness to the mixture.

• Red Onion, Celery: Provide a fresh crunch and sharp flavor to the tuna mixture.
• Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the patties.
• Jalapeno: Offers an optional spicy kick to the recipe.

• Breadcrumbs: Helps to hold the patty together and adds texture.
• Mayonnaise: Creates moisture and adds a creamy tang to the mixture.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings a tangy and slightly sharp flavor to the patties.
• Lemon Juice: Provides a bright, citrusy brightness to the tuna mixture.

• Salt, Pepper: Fundamental seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the patties.

• Cheese Slice: Melts on top of the patty, adding a creamy and rich finish.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the patties and creating a golden, crispy exterior.

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties with Confidence

Step 1: Create Tuna Patty Base

• Chopped red onion
• Finely diced celery
• Beaten egg
• Breadcrumbs
• Mayonnaise
• Dijon mustard
• Fresh lemon juice
• Chopped parsley
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional diced jalapeno

Blend everything together until the mixture holds together smoothly.

Step 2: Shape Delicious Patties

Use your hands to divide the mixture into four equal portions.

Gently compact each portion into a neat, firm patty shape. Press the edges to ensure they hold together well.

Step 3: Sizzle and Brown

Warm olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place patties into the hot pan.

Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust and are heated completely through.

Step 4: Melt Cheesy Goodness

During the final minute of cooking, lay a slice of cheese on top of each patty.

Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt into gooey deliciousness.

Step 5: Plate and Enjoy

Transfer the hot patties onto toasted buns or a crisp salad.

Top with fresh greens and juicy tomato slices for extra flavor and texture.

Helpful Tips for Tuna Melt Patties Success

• Remove excess moisture completely to prevent soggy patties and ensure a crispy exterior when cooking.
• Use fresh breadcrumbs and egg as a perfect binding agent to keep patties from falling apart during cooking.
• Customize heat by adding finely chopped jalapeños or reducing them based on personal spice tolerance.
• Cover skillet with lid during last minute of cooking to create steam and help cheese melt evenly and smoothly.
• Enjoy patties on toasted bun, over fresh salad, or as protein-packed standalone dish for flexible meal planning.

Creative Spins on Tuna Melt Patties

• Gluten-Free Tuna Patties: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers for a celiac-friendly version.
• Spicy Southwest Tuna Cakes: Add diced green chiles, cumin, and swap Dijon mustard for chipotle sauce to create a zesty southwestern flavor profile.
• Mediterranean Tuna Patties: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped kalamata olives, and replace parsley with fresh dill for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
• Low-Carb Tuna Patty Lettuce Wraps: Skip the bun and serve patties wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves with a light yogurt-based sauce for a carb-conscious option.

Best Pairings for Tuna Melt Patties

Select a lightly oaked Chardonnay with bright acidity to complement the rich, savory tuna patties and cut through the melted cheese.

Create a zesty coleslaw with apple cider vinegar and a touch of honey to provide a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy, warm tuna melt.

Prepare golden potato wedges seasoned with rosemary and thyme to offer a hearty, earthy side that enhances the tuna patties’ flavors.

Craft a homemade sparkling lemonade with fresh mint to provide a bright, citrusy drink that refreshes the palate between bites of the rich tuna patty.

How to Keep Tuna Melt Patties Fresh

• Store leftover tuna melt patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each patty individually with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent flavor transfer.
• Carefully place cooled patties in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 1 month. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Warm individual patties on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds, checking halfway to ensure even heating. Add a splash of water to prevent drying out.

FAQs

• How do I know if the tuna patties are cooked properly?

The patties are done when they’re golden brown on both sides and heated through, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure food safety.

• Can I use canned tuna in water instead of oil?

Yes, you can use tuna in water. Just make sure to drain it completely before mixing with other ingredients. The texture might be slightly less rich compared to oil-packed tuna.

• Is there a way to make these patties gluten-free?

Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour, crushed gluten-free crackers, or rolled oats to make the recipe gluten-free.

Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy, melty tuna melt patties bring classic comfort to your dinner table with a delightful twist on traditional sandwich flavors. Golden-brown patties packed with cheesy goodness offer a quick and satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 cans (5 ounces each) tuna in water, drained
• 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
• 1 large egg

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 small jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Binding and Seasoning:

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Blend the tuna mixture by combining drained tuna, red onion, celery, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional jalapeno in a mixing bowl until thoroughly incorporated.
2. Gently shape the blended mixture into 4 uniform, compact patties, ensuring they hold together firmly.
3. Warm olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, approximately 350°F.
4. Carefully place patties in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until achieving a golden-brown exterior and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the final minute of cooking, lay a cheese slice atop each patty and cover the skillet with a lid to facilitate smooth melting.
6. Transfer the hot, cheese-topped tuna patties onto toasted buns or crisp salad greens, garnishing with fresh tomato slices for added texture and flavor.

Notes

• Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming patties to help them hold together better and prevent crumbling during cooking.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Consider adding finely chopped herbs like dill or chives for an extra layer of fresh flavor and brightness.
• Swap regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado for a lighter, healthier alternative that still maintains moisture in the patties.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 295 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 530 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg