Crispy Tuna Patties (20-Minute Recipe) | CookOS

Crispy Tuna Patties

Name: Crispy Tuna Patties (20-Minute Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (5 oz) cans flaked light tuna, drained; 1 lemon, juiced; 1/4 cup red onion, diced; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes; salt, to taste; black pepper, to taste; 1 tsp paprika; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp light mayonnaise; 1 tsp sriracha or other hot sauce; 2 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying

Crispy tuna patties are a quick 20-minute recipe made from canned tuna, breadcrumbs, eggs, and bright lemon juice. They're golden and crispy on the outside with a tender, flavorful center, versatile enough to serve plain, over rice, or nestled in a sandwich.

🌍American 🏷️Tuna patties 🏷️Tuna burger 🏷️Canned tuna 🏷️Sandwich 20-minute meal

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Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$26–$43

Recipe Source

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Ingredients

2 (5 oz) cans flaked light tuna, drained
1 lemon, juiced
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
2 large eggs
1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes
salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste
1 tsp paprika
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
2 tbsp light mayonnaise
1 tsp sriracha or other hot sauceoptional
2 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying

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Instructions

1
In a large bowl, add the drained flaked tuna.
2
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the tuna to cut the fishy taste.
3
Add the diced red onion and chopped green onions.
4
Crack in two eggs to act as a binder.
5
Add breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for crispiness and structure.
6
Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
7
Add minced garlic and chopped cilantro.
8
Add light mayonnaise for creaminess and hot sauce for a spicy kick.
9
Mix all ingredients until well combined.
10
Form the mixture into 6 evenly-sized patties.
11
Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in the pan.
12
Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
13
Serve warm, either on their own or in a sandwich.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Drain the canned tuna very thoroughly—excess liquid will make the patties soggy and harder to bind.
Zest the lemon before juicing it and fold the zest into the mixture for brighter, more complex lemon flavor.
Don't overmix once you combine the ingredients; stir just until the tuna, breadcrumbs, and eggs come together to keep patties light.
Cook over medium (not high) heat for 2–3 minutes per side to allow the center to cook through before the outside burns.

Substitutions

Red onion → white onion or shallots (note: milder flavor, slightly sweeter)
Lemon juice → lime juice or white wine vinegar (note: same brightness, different flavor profile)
Eggs → 3 tbsp mayonnaise + 1 tbsp water (note: richer, binds well without eggs)
Paprika → cayenne or smoked paprika (note: adds heat or smokiness; use half the amount for cayenne)

Storage & make-ahead

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes until warmed through.

Common Questions

Can I make tuna patties ahead of time?

Yes. Form patties and refrigerate on a parchment-lined tray for up to 4 hours before cooking, or freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from chilled or frozen, adding 2–3 minutes if frozen.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed cornflakes (already in the recipe), panko, crushed crackers, or finely minced fresh bread work well. All provide structure and crispiness.

How do I know when the patties are cooked through?

They should be golden brown on both sides (2–3 minutes per side over medium heat). A meat thermometer should read 160°F internally, though the eggs binding the mixture reach safety at that point.