Best Tuna Melt Patties

First off — thank you so much for stopping by! If you’re here, it means you’re craving something savory, cheesy, and comforting that’s also incredibly easy to whip up. Well, let me just say: these Best Tuna Melt Patties deliver all that and more. We’re talking golden-brown, crispy-edged patties made with tender tuna, melty cheese, and just the right amount of zing — kind of like a tuna melt, but better (and way more versatile!).

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What Are Tuna Melt Patties?

Think of these as the perfect mashup between a classic tuna salad sandwich and a grilled cheese… but in patty form. They’re crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, packed with protein, and so satisfying. Whether you serve them with a salad, in a sandwich, or on their own with dipping sauce, these patties are an anytime win.

They’re also totally weeknight-friendly. One bowl. One pan. Done in 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love These Tuna Melt Patties

• Super quick & easy – from pantry to plate in under 30 minutes.

• Budget-friendly – uses canned tuna and everyday ingredients.

• Family-approved – even picky eaters love them!

• Versatile – perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.

What Do They Taste Like?

These patties are the ultimate comfort food. You get the savory, slightly salty flavor of tuna, creamy cheese running through the middle, a crispy golden crust from pan-frying, and a little oniony tang that mimics the flavor of a classic tuna melt. They’re soft and tender on the inside but hold together beautifully. Seriously — it’s hard to stop at just one!

Benefits of This Recipe

• High in protein and low in carbs

• Great way to use pantry staples

• Customizable to your taste (mild or bold!)

• Freezer-friendly for easy prep

Ingredients for the Best Tuna Melt Patties

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 (5 oz) cans of tuna, drained well

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 large egg

• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• ¼ cup finely chopped onion or green onion

• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter, for pan-frying

Optional Add-ins:

• A splash of hot sauce or Sriracha for heat

• A few tablespoons of chopped pickles or capers for tang

• Swap cheddar for Swiss or pepper jack cheese

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl

• Fork or spoon for mixing

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan

• Spatula for flipping

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

You know I love a recipe that can flex with what you’ve got:

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

• No mayo? Swap in plain Greek yogurt or sour cream.

• Want it spicy? Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

• No egg? Use 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water as a binder.

How to Make Tuna Melt Patties

Let’s do this — it couldn’t be easier!

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

• In a large bowl, combine tuna, shredded cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, mayo, mustard, onion, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Stir until everything is well combined and holds together. If it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

• Form the mixture into 4–6 patties, about ½ inch thick.

• You can make them smaller for sliders or appetizers, or bigger for sandwiches.

Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection

• Heat the olive oil or butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.

• Add the patties and cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.

• Don’t rush flipping — you want that crust!

Step 4: Serve Hot and Melty

• Remove from the pan and serve immediately while the cheese is still gooey and delicious.

What to Serve with Tuna Melt Patties

🥗 Fresh Green Salad

Keep it crisp and simple — the lightness of a fresh salad balances the richness of the patties perfectly.

• Try arugula with lemon vinaigrette, or a spinach salad with cucumbers and cherry tomatoes.

• Add a sprinkle of feta or a handful of croutons for crunch.

🍅 Tomato Basil Soup

A classic grilled cheese side, and it works beautifully here too!

• The acidity and sweetness of the tomato cuts through the creamy cheese and tuna like a dream.

🥔 Crispy Roasted Potatoes or Fries

Go classic diner-style with golden roasted potatoes, sweet potato fries, or even tater tots!

• A sprinkle of garlic salt or parmesan makes them extra special.

🥒 Pickles or Pickled Veggies

The tangy crunch of pickles is the perfect contrast to the soft, creamy interior of your patties.

• Dill spears, pickled onions, or even a few olives on the side work wonders.

🥖 Buttery Toast or a Toasted Bun

Want to turn your patties into sandwiches? Serve them on:

• Toasted sourdough or brioche

• English muffins or sandwich rolls

• Add a little lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of spicy mayo or tartar sauce

🧄 Garlic Green Beans or Roasted Broccoli

Add a warm veggie to the plate for a more complete meal.

• Roasted or sautéed green beans, broccoli, or even zucchini bring balance and color.

🥚 Deviled Eggs or Egg Salad

For a picnic-style meal or brunch twist, these creamy sides pair wonderfully with tuna.

🥣 Coleslaw or Cabbage Slaw

Crisp, crunchy, and refreshing — slaw adds great texture.

• Try a tangy vinegar-based slaw or go classic with creamy coleslaw.

🍋 A Squeeze of Fresh Lemon or Dipping Sauce

Sometimes, all you need is a zippy little sidekick:

• Fresh lemon wedges to brighten the patties

• Garlic aioli, spicy mayo, ranch, or even sriracha ketchup for dipping

Tips for Tuna Melt Patty Perfection

• 🧂 1. Drain That Tuna Well

  • Water-packed tuna holds more moisture than you’d think.

  • After opening the can, press the tuna gently in a fine mesh strainer or squeeze it dry with paper towels.

  Too much moisture = mushy patties that won’t hold their shape.

  🧀 2. Shred Your Own Cheese

  • Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect how well it melts.

  • Use freshly shredded cheddar (or whatever cheese you’re using) for that perfect gooey pull and creamy bite.

  🥚 3. Use the Right Binder Balance

  • The egg and breadcrumbs are key to holding everything together.

  • If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs at a time until it’s firm enough to shape into patties.

  ❄️ 4. Chill the Patties Before Cooking

  • If you have time, refrigerate your patties for 10–15 minutes before pan-frying.

  • This helps them firm up and makes them easier to flip without falling apart.

  🔥 5. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

  • Give each patty enough room to breathe so they brown evenly.

  • Cook in batches if needed — trust me, it’s worth the extra couple minutes!

  🧈 6. Use the Right Pan & Oil

  • A good nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron pan is ideal for a crispy, golden crust.

  • Use olive oil, butter, or a combo for best flavor and browning.

  ⏲️ 7. Flip Gently, Once

  • Let the patties cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes before flipping.

  • Use a thin spatula and flip only once to keep the crust intact.

  🌿 8. Add a Flavor Twist

  Want to level up your patties?

  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice, hot sauce, or chopped pickles to the mix.

  • A little fresh dill or parsley adds brightness and cuts the richness beautifully.

  🔄 9. Make Them Ahead

  • Mix and form the patties ahead of time, then store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

  • Great for meal prep or prepping dinner before the evening rush.

  🍽️ 10. Serve Them Fresh and Hot

  • Tuna Melt Patties are best right off the skillet — warm, crispy, and melty.

  • If you need to reheat, use a skillet or air fryer to bring back the texture (the microwave makes them soft).

How to Store Tuna Melt Patties

🧊 In the Fridge

• Store cooled patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in a skillet or air fryer to crisp them back up.

❄️ In the Freezer

• Let patties cool completely.

• Wrap individually in plastic or parchment, then freeze in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

• Reheat straight from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 12–15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes! Just make sure it’s cooked and flaked before mixing in.

What kind of cheese is best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but feel free to use mozzarella, Swiss, pepper jack, or a mix!

Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Are these keto or low-carb?

To make them lower in carbs, just swap the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

In Conclusion

These Best Tuna Melt Patties are a cozy, craveable, and ridiculously easy meal that hits all the right notes — crispy, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you serve them as a quick weeknight dinner, a lunchbox favorite, or an appetizer at your next get-together, they’re sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

Looking for more comfort food that’s easy on your wallet and your schedule? You’ll love:

• Crispy Salmon Cakes with Lemon Herb Aioli

• Cheesy Zucchini Fritters

• Creamy Tuna Pasta Bake with Peas

Share the Melt-y Goodness!

Did you make these Tuna Melt Patties? I’d love to see! Snap a photo, tag me on Pinterest, and leave a review to let others know how they turned out.

Nutritional Info (per patty, approx. based on 6 patties)

• Calories: 195

• Protein: 17g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Sugar: 0g

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