If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Tuna Melt Patties Recipe is one of my absolute favorites. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The crispy exterior and cheesy interior make these patties irresistible, whether served on toasted bread or alongside a fresh salad.

What makes this recipe extra special is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for casual family dinners, impress guests at gatherings, or even make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches. Trust me; once you try these Tuna Melt Patties, they will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and only 8 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 20 minutes!
Budget-friendly: Using simple pantry staples like canned tuna and breadcrumbs means you can enjoy a tasty dish without breaking the bank.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will love these cheesy patties! They are kid-approved and perfect for everyone.
Easy to customize: Feel free to switch up the cheese or add veggies based on what you have on hand.
Make-ahead convenience: These patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for an easy meal later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Tuna Melt Patties is super easy with just a few wholesome ingredients. Let’s gather what you need to get started!

For the Patties:

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 egg
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Swiss)
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)

Variations

This Tuna Melt Patties Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to suit your taste:

Swap the cheese: Try using feta or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Add some heat: Mix in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
Make it veggie-packed: Add finely chopped bell peppers or spinach into the mixture for extra nutrition.
Try different proteins: Substitute canned salmon or chickpeas for tuna if you’re looking for something new.

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

In a large bowl, combine your drained tuna with breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mixing these ingredients well is key; it ensures every bite is packed with flavor and holds together nicely when shaping the patties.

Step 2: Add Cheese & Shape Patties

Now it’s time to stir in your shredded cheese and green onions. Mixing these in not only adds flavor but also that delightful melty texture we all love! Once combined, form the mixture into 4-5 patties. Don’t worry about making them perfect—just aim for uniform size so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place each patty in the pan. Cooking them for about 3-4 minutes on each side gives them that golden-brown crispiness while keeping the insides gooey and delicious. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Serve your tasty tuna melt patties on toasted bread or English muffins. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad on the side. If you’re feeling indulgent, top them with extra cheese and pop them under the broiler for just a minute until bubbly! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Creating the perfect Tuna Melt Patties is a breeze with these helpful tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time!

Choose Quality Tuna: Opt for solid white tuna packed in water for a firmer texture and milder flavor. This makes your patties more robust and easier to shape.
Adjust Breadcrumbs: If you prefer a lighter patty, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. Panko will give your patties an extra crispy exterior that everyone will love.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients without overmixing. This helps maintain a tender and flaky texture rather than a dense patty.
Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to substitute cheddar with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a gooey melt. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor profile.
Make Ahead & Freeze: Prepare extra patties and freeze them uncooked. You can cook them directly from frozen, making weeknight dinners even easier!

How to Serve Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

These Tuna Melt Patties are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just want something quick, here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious dish.

Garnishes

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices alongside the patties for richness that balances the flavors beautifully.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens up the dish and enhances its taste.

Side Dishes

Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with your favorite greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette pairs perfectly, providing balance to the rich patties.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory patties and are always a crowd-pleaser.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds texture and freshness to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the patties beautifully while adding vibrant colors to your plate.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your flavorful Tuna Melt Patties in style! Whether it’s just you or you’re sharing with family and friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tuna Melt Patties are a fantastic option for meal prep! They can easily be made ahead of time, stored, and enjoyed throughout the week. Here’s how to make sure they stay fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the patties to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
They should last for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the uncooked or cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

For refrigerated patties, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until heated through.
If frozen, cook from frozen in the skillet for about 6-8 minutes per side, or you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Do you have questions about this Tuna Melt Patties Recipe? Here are some common inquiries that might help!

Can I use canned tuna in water for this Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

Yes! Canned tuna in water works perfectly fine. Just make sure to drain it well before mixing it into your recipe.

What can I substitute for cheddar cheese in the Tuna Melt Patties Recipe?

You can easily substitute cheddar cheese with shredded Swiss cheese or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for a non-dairy option.

How do I know when the patties are done cooking?

The patties are done when they are golden brown on both sides and crispy on the outside—typically around 3-4 minutes per side.

Can I add vegetables to my Tuna Melt Patties?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some finely chopped bell peppers, celery, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Tuna Melt Patties as much as I do! They are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re having them as a light lunch or dinner paired with a fresh salad, I’m sure they’ll become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or any personal twists you add—happy cooking!