Pin Recipe Crispy on the outside, melty and flavorful on the inside: Tuna Melt Patties are a perfect twist on the classic tuna melt. Made with pantry staples like canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and cheddar cheese, this recipe is quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Enjoy them on toasted bread, in a sandwich, or with a fresh salad for a delicious meal in under 20 minutes.
I first made these Tuna Melt Patties as a way to use up extra cans of tuna in my pantry. They became an instant hit & have been requested for lunch ever since!
Ingredients
- Tuna: 2 cans (5 oz each), drained
- Bread crumbs: ½ cup
- Mayonnaise: ¼ cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Dijon mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Cheddar cheese (or Swiss): ½ cup, shredded
- Green onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Butter (for cooking): 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add Cheese & Shape Patties:
- Stir in shredded cheese and green onions. Form the mixture into 4-5 patties.
- 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.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve on toasted bread, English muffins, or alongside a fresh salad. For an extra cheesy finish, top with cheese and place under the broiler for a minute.
Pin Recipe My parents love these patties with a side of salad for a light dinner, & it is so easy to whip up when family visits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tuna melt patties on toasted bread, English muffins, or tucked into a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and extra cheese.
Variations
Try switching up the cheese for Swiss, mozzarella, or Pepper Jack for unique flavor. Add diced pickles or capers for tang.
Storage
Store cooled patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Pin Recipe Enjoy your melty tuna patties fresh & hot for the best taste. They are sure to become a new favorite!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent patties from falling apart?
Be sure the tuna is well drained; if mixture seems too wet, add more breadcrumbs until firm. Avoid overmixing.
- → Which cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but Swiss, mozzarella, or Pepper Jack add unique flavors and melt well.
- → Can I make patties ahead of time?
Shape and chill patties up to a day in advance; cook just before serving for best texture and flavor.
- → What is the ideal way to serve patties?
Serve on toasted bread, in sandwiches, or alongside a crisp salad. Optional: broil extra cheese on top.
- → Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to easily adapt this dish for gluten-free diets.