These crispy patties are a lifesaver when you need a quick, satisfying meal using pantry staples. They come together in minutes and are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you serve them with a fresh salad or a dollop of tangy sauce, they deliver comfort food without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love These Tuna Cakes
These patties are incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients. They are budget-friendly and use canned tuna, which is a pantry staple. The texture is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Tuna Cakes
Canned tuna is the star of these tuna cakes, so choose a good quality brand packed in water or oil. You’ll also need breadcrumbs, eggs, and a few seasonings to bind everything together. For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice and some fresh parsley.
How to Make Tuna Cakes
Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the flaked tuna, breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 8 patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with a side of mixed greens or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips
- For gluten-free tuna cakes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
- These tuna cakes can be baked at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions for Tuna Cakes
Pair these tuna cakes with a simple lemon-dill yogurt sauce or a classic tartar sauce. They also work wonderfully as sliders on small buns with lettuce and tomato. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.
Final Thoughts
These tuna cakes are a versatile and delicious addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. They are quick to prepare, use common ingredients, and can be customized to your taste. Give them a try and enjoy a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. For more easy dinner ideas, check out our quick weeknight recipes. For tips on selecting sustainable tuna, visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch.
Explore a guide on our sister blog
Related reading: Explore more on this topic