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Crispy & Cheesy Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

4.7 from 95 reviews

These Crispy & Cheesy Tuna Melt Patties are a delicious, easy-to-make dish perfect for lunch or dinner. Made with canned tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, and a blend of flavorful ingredients, these patties are coated in breadcrumbs and pan-fried to golden perfection. Serve them hot on their own, with a dipping sauce, or in a sandwich for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup finely diced celery
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • Extra breadcrumbs for coating
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, egg, finely diced celery and onion, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed and form a cohesive mixture.
  2. Form Patties: Divide the tuna mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Lightly coat each patty with the extra breadcrumbs to give them a crispy crust when fried.
  3. Heat Oil: Pour the olive oil into a skillet and heat it over medium heat until warm but not smoking, ensuring even frying without burning.
  4. Cook Patties: Place the coated patties in the hot skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown color and crispy texture. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the patties.
  5. Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and drain on paper towels if desired. Serve immediately while hot, either with your favorite sauce, salad, or inside a sandwich for a hearty meal.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
  • You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • These patties freeze well; cook then freeze individually to reheat later.
  • If you prefer baking over frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Keywords: tuna melt patties, tuna patties, seafood patties, crispy tuna, cheesy tuna melts, easy tuna recipe