Crispy Tuna Melt Patties
These golden, pan-seared patties upgrade the classic comfort food into a cheesy, portable delight with a perfectly crunchy exterior and a rich, savory center.
Ingredients & Info
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Servings: 2 (Makes 4 patties)
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Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 10 mins
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Ingredients: 1 can (5 oz) drained tuna, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (divided), 1 beaten egg, 2 tbsp mayo, 1 tbsp minced celery, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and oil for frying. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Instructions
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Mix: In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, mayo, mustard, celery, cheese, and 1/4 cup of the breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper.
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Shape: Divide the mixture and form into 4 thick, compact patties.
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Coat: Dredge the exterior of each patty in the remaining 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs for maximum crunch.
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Fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and the cheese inside is melted. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes & Tips
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Drain thoroughly: Ensure the canned tuna is squeezed completely dry to prevent the patties from breaking apart in the pan.
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Chill out: If the mixture feels too loose to shape easily, pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes before frying to help it set.
Nutritional Info & Benefits
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Calories: ~290 kcal per serving (2 patties)
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Macros: Protein: 24g | Fat: 16g | Net Carbs: 11g
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Benefit: A fantastic high-protein, budget-friendly meal rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart and brain health.
Q&A
Q: Can I bake or air-fry these instead of pan-frying?
A: Absolutely! Spritz them generously with cooking spray and air-fry at 200°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until crisp.