Name: Crispy Tuna Patties Recipe
Prep time: 8 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (5 oz) can tuna in water, drained very well; 1 (12 oz) can tuna in water, drained very well; 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (plus an additional 2 tbsp plus 1/4-1/2 cups for coating); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chopped red onions; 3 tsp minced garlic; 2 tsp dried parsley; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 1/4 tsp dried dill; 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; 1/2 tsp celery seeds; 2 tsp ground black pepper; 1 1/4 tsp salt; 3 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tsp lemon zest; 3 tsp fresh lemon juice; 3 eggs, lightly beaten; 6 tbsp vegetable oil (plus more as needed for frying)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 7 reviews

If you’re craving something that’s crunchy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside, then you absolutely have to try this Crispy Tuna Patties Recipe. Combining flaky tuna with a mix of aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and a perfectly crisp panko crust, these patties are a delightful treat that come together quickly and easily. Whether you’re whipping them up for a weeknight dinner or serving them as a snack at your next gathering, these tuna patties are sure to become a beloved favorite that’s packed with taste and texture in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A grey bowl sits on a white marbled surface, containing separate layers of ingredients arranged around the bowl's sides, leaving some space in the middle. On the left edge, there is a bright yellow mix of egg yolks, next to a small pile of finely chopped purple onions. Nearby, there is a mound of chopped salmon with a light pink-orange color. At the top right, there is a pale orange creamy layer, beside piles of light beige breadcrumbs, white sauce, and different green and brown herbs and spices. Each ingredient is distinct, with small piles laid neatly without mixing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are a beautiful balance of pantry staples and fresh flavors that work together to create the perfect crispy tuna patties. From the umami richness of Parmesan to the bright zing of lemon zest, each element plays an essential role.

1 (5 oz) tuna in water (drained very well): Adds flaky texture and protein to the patties.
1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water (drained very well): Boosts the tuna flavor and keeps the patties moist.
1/4 cup panko (plus an additional 2 tbsp): Provides the crucial crispy exterior texture.
1/2 cup Parmesan: Brings a savory depth and slight nuttiness.
1/2 cup chopped red onions: Adds a sweet and sharp crunch.
3 tsp minced garlic: Infuses irresistible aromatic savoriness.
2 tsp dried parsley: A touch of earthiness and color.
1/4 tsp onion powder: Amplifies the onion flavor with mellow sweetness.
1/4 tsp dried dill: Introduces a fresh, herbal note that pairs well with fish.
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper: A tiny kick of heat to keep things interesting.
1/2 tsp celery seeds: Adds subtle warmth and complexity.
2 tsp pepper: Freshly ground for bright spiciness.
1 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
3 tbsp mayonnaise: Helps bind the ingredients and lends creamy richness.
2 tsp lemon zest: Provides a lively citrus aroma that wakes up the palate.
3 tsp lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to cut through the richness.
3 eggs (lightly beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the patties together perfectly.
1/4 – 1/2 cups panko: For coating the patties a second time, ensuring extra crispiness.
6 tbsp vegetable oil (add more as needed): For frying the patties to golden, crispy perfection.

How to Make Crispy Tuna Patties Recipe

Step 1: Mix All Ingredients

Start by combining both cans of drained tuna in a large bowl along with the panko, Parmesan, red onions, garlic, herbs, spices, mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, and the lightly beaten eggs. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything gently until just combined. You want a homogenous mixture without overworking it, so your patties stay light and tender inside.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Using a 1/4 cup measuring scoop makes portioning super easy and creates uniform patties that cook evenly. Scoop out the mixture and gently shape each into a slightly flattened patty about 1/8 inch thick. This thickness strikes the perfect balance for crispiness on the outside and moistness inside.

Step 3: Coat with Panko

Pour the additional 1/4 cup panko into a shallow dish. Lightly press each patty onto the panko, coating both sides evenly. If the coating feels light, dip the patties a second time to build up a crunchy crust that will hold together beautifully during frying.

Step 4: Fry the Patties

Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add 4 to 5 patties at once without crowding the pan. Press gently with a spatula to maintain that 1/8 inch thickness and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown color. Carefully flip to avoid breaking the patties, then transfer cooked patties onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat the process with the remaining patties, adding more oil as necessary.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the patties cool for a few minutes on the plate before serving. This rest period allows the juices to settle and the coating to firm up just a bit. Now, you’re ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor!

How to Serve Crispy Tuna Patties Recipe

The image shows three golden brown crab cakes stacked on a white plate, with the top crab cake slightly overlapping the others. Each crab cake has a crispy, textured surface with small herbs sprinkled on top, adding green highlights. To the right of the crab cakes, there is a bright yellow lemon wedge showing its juicy interior. In the background on the left side, some fresh green leafy garnish is visible. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance the Tuna Patties with bright garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or dill sprigs, thin slices of lemon, or a dollop of tangy tartar sauce. These little touches add eye-catching color and an extra burst of flavor that complements the crispy, savory patties perfectly.

Side Dishes

When it comes to sides, keep it fresh and simple: a crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette, some steamed green beans, or even a light quinoa pilaf all make fantastic companions. You could also serve them on a soft bun with lettuce and tomato for a delightful tuna patty sandwich experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling adventurous? Try serving these crispy tuna patties atop a bed of creamy avocado mash or alongside a zesty mango salsa. For an appetizer setup, slice them into smaller bites for easy dipping with aioli or your favorite spicy mayo. Presentation is a fun way to elevate this familiar favorite and surprise your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, place the cooled patties in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining their flavor and texture quite well.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen patties keep their quality for up to 2 months and make a great quick meal option.

Reheating

Reheat your crispy tuna patties in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to regain that original crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the coating soggy. A toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes also works wonders!

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, fresh cooked tuna can be used, but make sure it’s flaked finely and cooled. Keep in mind fresh tuna may have a different moisture content, so you might need to adjust the amount of panko for binding.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the recipe?

If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works nicely as a binder and adds a pleasant tang. You could also try a vegan mayo if you’re avoiding eggs or dairy.

Is it possible to bake the tuna patties instead of frying?

Absolutely! Bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden and crisp. This is a healthier alternative that still delivers great texture.

How can I make these patties gluten-free?

Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The patties will still hold together nicely and have a wonderful crunch.

Can I add other vegetables to the patties?

Yes! Finely diced bell peppers, grated carrot, or chopped spinach can be folded in to boost nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful to keep added moisture low to maintain the right texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into these golden, crunchy bundles of tuna goodness that makes the effort totally worthwhile. This Crispy Tuna Patties Recipe is a flavorful, no-fuss way to enjoy tuna that brings comfort and excitement to the table at once. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to in your kitchen that friends and family will keep asking for again and again.