Description
This Irresistibly Easy Tuna Melt Patties recipe is perfect for quick dinners, combining tender tuna with cheddar cheese, savory seasonings, and a crispy golden exterior. These patties are pan-fried to perfection and topped with melty cheese slices, served with your favorite fresh greens or light sauces for a satisfying and flavorful meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 can Canned Tuna (water-packed and dolphin-safe)
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for a twist)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (or Pepper Jack for a spicy version)
- 1 large Egg (essential for binding)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (or lemon juice for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for frying)
- 4 slices Cheese Slices (Swiss, Mozzarella, or Cheddar)
Toppings
- Fresh greens
- Light sauce or any preferred toppings
Instructions
- Prepare the tuna mixture: Drain the canned tuna thoroughly, then transfer it into a mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything well until all ingredients are fully combined and hold together when shaped.
- Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty approximately 1/2 inch thick, ensuring they are compact to prevent falling apart during cooking.
- Heat the oil: Place a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat up but not smoke, ensuring an even cooking surface for the patties.
- Cook the patties: Carefully add the tuna patties to the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy. Flip the patties gently and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the other side is also golden and the patties are cooked through.
- Add cheese slices: Place a slice of your preferred cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover the pan briefly to allow the cheese to melt nicely over the patties.
- Serve: Remove the patties from the pan and place them on serving plates. Top with fresh greens, drizzle with light sauces or your favorite toppings. Serve hot as a delicious main dish perfect for a speedy dinner.
Notes
- Use water-packed tuna to avoid excess oiliness and ensure a cleaner flavor.
- To make it lighter, substitute mayonnaise with fresh lemon juice or Greek yogurt.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with crushed crackers or panko for varied texture.
- For a spicy twist, use Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar, or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Be gentle when flipping patties to keep them intact.
- Serve with a side salad or in a sandwich bun for a different serving option.
