Description
These Tuna Melt Patties are a delightful twist on the classic tuna melt sandwich. The patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, loaded with savory tuna, herbs, and seasonings. Topped with melted cheese, they make a perfect quick lunch or light dinner served on a bun or over a salad.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (adjust for desired texture)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped red onion, celery, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper (and jalapeño if using). Mix until well combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form each into a compact patty.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and heated through.
- Add Cheese: Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking, covering the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt.
- Serve: Serve the tuna melt patties hot. They can be enjoyed on a toasted bun with fresh greens and tomato slices or as a protein-packed topping over a salad.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use whole wheat breadcrumbs and low-fat mayonnaise.
- Serve with a squeeze of extra lemon juice or tartar sauce on the side.
- These patties can be refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: ~300 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg