12+ Crispy Tuna Patties Recipes for Easy Dinners

Some evenings, all I want is dinner that’s both easy and a little special—something crispy, comforting, and maybe good for using up a pantry staple like tuna. I remember the first time I tried frying up tuna patties on a whim after a long workday. I mixed up what I had, shaped it with my hands, and let them sizzle in my old cast iron pan. The golden crust was so satisfying, and we quickly realized this was one of those quick fixes that tastes like 10 times the effort. Since then, I’ve made a habit of trying new spins on crispy tuna patties recipes for easy dinners, because you can make them endlessly interesting with just a few tweaks, and they always disappear fast.

Crispy Classic Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

This is the tuna patty recipe you turn to on busy nights when you want the familiar—crispy outside, tender inside, perfect with just a squeeze of lemon. Kids love them, adults end up grabbing seconds, and you can whip these up with mostly pantry ingredients.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 25 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna in water, drained
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for pan-frying

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, Dijon, garlic powder, black pepper, and lemon zest.
2. Mix until the mixture just holds together; shape into 4 patties.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry patties for 3–4 minutes each side, until crisp and golden.
5. Drain on paper towels, serve warm with lemon wedges.

Optional Enhancer:

Flavor Boost: Mix in 1 tablespoon chopped capers for an extra burst of flavor.

Spicy Sriracha Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

When you’re craving something with a little heat, these patties deliver. They’re a weeknight favorite for anyone who likes classic comfort food with a spicy twist, and they pair perfectly with a fresh slaw or over rice for an easy meal.

Serving size: Serves 3.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 25 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna in water, drained
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 green onion, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Combine tuna, egg, panko, sriracha, mayo, green onion, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Shape into 3 equal patties.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high.
4. Fry patties for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy.
5. Serve warm, drizzled with extra sriracha-mayo.

Optional Enhancer:

Meal Prep Tip: Cooked patties reheat beautifully in a hot oven for 10 minutes.

Mediterranean Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

These are packed with feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs for a Greek-inspired dinner that feels bright and satisfying. We usually serve these with a big tabbouleh salad or tucked inside pita bread.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 20 minutes.

Cook Time: 12 minutes.

Total Time: 32 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna in olive oil, drained
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped dill
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl, mix tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, dill, oregano, and pepper.
2. Form into 4 patties.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Cook patties 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and aromas bloom.
5. Serve hot, with tzatziki on the side.

Optional Enhancer:

Serving Idea: Serve inside warm pita with lettuce and sliced tomatoes.

Asian-Style Crispy Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

These taste like the best parts of sushi night, but are way more practical for quick dinners. A dash of soy sauce and sesame oil gives a deep savory note, while scallions keep things fresh.

Serving size: Serves 3.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 8 minutes.

Total Time: 23 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil for frying
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl, mix tuna, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, panko, scallions, and ginger.
2. Form mixture into 3 large patties.
3. Heat oil in a skillet, medium heat.
4. Fry patties 4 minutes each side until strongly crisped.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onion to serve.

Optional Enhancer:

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a gentle heat.

Herb & Lemon Crusted Tuna Cakes

Why You’ll Love It:

This take puts lemon and herbs front and center, making the patties feel lighter and extra refreshing. They’re ideal if you love a zesty, herby flavor profile and a crunchy panko coating.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 18 minutes.

Cook Time: 12 minutes.

Total Time: 30 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

How to Make It:

1. Combine tuna, egg, mayo, 1/2 cup panko, parsley, chives, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape into 4 thick cakes, coat each with extra panko.
3. Heat oil in a skillet on medium, cook cakes about 6 minutes per side until deeply golden.
4. Plate with fresh microgreens and lemon.

Optional Enhancer:

Serving Idea: These are delicious on top of arugula salad or inside soft buns with slaw.

Southwest Black Bean & Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

Hearty and earthy from black beans, with cumin and chili bringing the Southwest vibes. These are filling enough for dinner and make a great vegetarian-friendly option using plant-based tuna.

Serving size: Serves 5.

Prep Time: 20 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 30 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 can tuna, drained
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup corn kernels
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

How to Make It:

1. Mash beans in a bowl, add tuna, corn, egg, breadcrumbs, spices, onion, and salt.
2. Mix, then form 5 patties.
3. Heat oil in skillet and fry patties 3–4 minutes per side.
4. Serve with salsa and lime.

Optional Enhancer:

Swap This With That: Sub plant-based tuna to make this fully vegetarian.

Potato-Tuna Croquettes

Why You’ll Love It:

Mash potato gives these patties a pillowy inside, making them super kid-friendly and hearty. Perfect for using up leftover mashed potatoes and serving with your favorite gravy or dip.

Serving size: Serves 6.

Prep Time: 25 minutes.

Cook Time: 12 minutes.

Total Time: 37 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup additional breadcrumbs (for coating)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. In a big bowl, combine tuna, mashed potatoes, egg, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Shape into 6 small oblong croquettes.
3. Roll in flour, then in breadcrumbs to coat.
4. Heat oil in skillet on medium, fry in batches 4–5 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels, serve warm.

Optional Enhancer:

Common Mistake to Avoid: If the mixture feels too sticky, add a bit more breadcrumbs before shaping.

Tuna & Zucchini Fritter Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

Here’s how I sneak extra veg in without anyone noticing. Grated zucchini makes these light and moist, perfect for a summer dinner when zucchini is everywhere.

Serving size: Serves 5.

Prep Time: 20 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 30 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 medium zucchini, grated and squeezed dry
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons chopped dill
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix tuna, zucchini, egg, flour, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Form into 5 fritter-style patties.
3. Heat olive oil, fry each patty for 4–5 minutes per side.
4. Serve warm with yogurt dip.

Optional Enhancer:

Budget-Friendly Tip: Zucchini stretches the tuna, making more patties for less.

Panko-Crusted Tuna Patties with Wasabi Aioli

Why You’ll Love It:

Crunchy on the outside thanks to panko, these patties are made for dipping in the tangy, spicy wasabi aioli. If you like the flavors of sushi but want something cooked, this one’s a winner.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 25 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus more for coating
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 tablespoons canola oil for frying
• For wasabi aioli: 1/3 cup mayo, 1 teaspoon wasabi paste, 1 teaspoon lemon juice

How to Make It:

1. Mix tuna, egg, mayo, 1 cup panko, soy sauce, ginger, and white pepper.
2. Shape into 4 patties, coat each with more panko.
3. Heat oil, fry 5 minutes per side until deeply golden.
4. Mix ingredients for wasabi aioli. Serve patties topped with aioli and lime wedges.

Optional Enhancer:

Best Pairings: Serve with seaweed salad or steamed edamame.

Cheesy Tuna Melt Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

Everything you love about a tuna melt, only crispier. Melted cheddar oozes out in each bite, and these go down well with all ages. We love these on soft buns or even on their own with tomato soup.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 12 minutes.

Total Time: 27 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix tuna, mayo, egg, breadcrumbs, chives, garlic, and salt.
2. Divide into 4, flatten each and tuck cheddar inside, sealing edges.
3. Heat butter in a skillet, cook each patty 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
4. Sprinkle chives before serving.

Optional Enhancer:

Serving Idea: Slide into buns with lettuce and tomato for a tuna melt burger.

Crispy Tuna Patties with Corn & Scallion

Why You’ll Love It:

Corn brings pops of sweetness and juicy bites throughout, while scallions add a savory note. This is a great way to use a can of corn and make dinner stretch further.

Serving size: Serves 5.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 25 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1/2 cup canned corn, drained
• 2 scallions, finely sliced
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons canola oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. In a bowl, combine all ingredients except oil, mixing gently but thoroughly.
2. Shape into 5 equal patties.
3. Heat oil, fry each patty 5 minutes per side until brown and crisp.
4. Serve with fresh greens and lime.

Optional Enhancer:

Personal Note: My kids always pick out the corn first—these never last the night.

Curried Tuna & Sweet Potato Cakes

Why You’ll Love It:

If you’re a fan of subtle spice and a touch of sweetness, these are the patties to try. They’re nutritious and filling, great for make-ahead lunches or dinners.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 20 minutes.

Cook Time: 12 minutes.

Total Time: 32 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 cup cooked, mashed sweet potato
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Blend tuna, sweet potato, egg, breadcrumbs, curry powder, cilantro, and salt.
2. Divide into 4, shape into flat cakes.
3. Fry in a skillet, 6 minutes per side on medium.
4. Top with cilantro and serve with chutney.

Optional Enhancer:

Meal Prep Tip: These freeze well—just reheat in a hot oven.

Sesame-Crusted Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

Toasty sesame seeds make the crust incredibly crunchy, adding a nutty aroma and flavor. These are a hit for anyone who loves Asian-inspired food and they’re especially good with a quick pickled veggie salad.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 25 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (plus more for coating)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix tuna, egg, mayo, breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp sesame seeds, soy, and scallions.
2. Shape into 4 patties and press more sesame seeds onto outside.
3. Heat oil and fry, 5 minutes per side.
4. Serve with dipping sauce and extra scallions.

Optional Enhancer:

Best Pairings: Try with seaweed salad or miso soup.

Italian-Inspired Tuna & Parmesan Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

Parmesan and Italian herbs bring a savory, cheesy depth to simple tuna. I often bring these to the table with a side of marinara and a crisp Caesar salad—always a hit.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 18 minutes.

Cook Time: 10 minutes.

Total Time: 28 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Combine all ingredients (except oil) in a bowl.
2. Shape into 4 thick patties.
3. Heat oil, fry 5 minutes per side until cheese bubbles and edges crisp.
4. Serve with marinara and basil.

Optional Enhancer:

Swap This With That: Try pecorino cheese in place of parmesan for a saltier kick.

Buffalo Tuna Patties

Why You’ll Love It:

This one’s for the hot sauce fans. Everything you love about spicy buffalo flavor, with crispy edges and a creamy, cool ranch or blue cheese dip on the side. Great for game night or party-style dinners.

Serving size: Serves 4.

Prep Time: 15 minutes.

Cook Time: 12 minutes.

Total Time: 27 minutes.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cans tuna, drained
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons hot Buffalo sauce, plus more for drizzling
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying

How to Make It:

1. Mix tuna, egg, mayo, breadcrumbs, Buffalo sauce, chives, garlic, and salt.
2. Divide into 4 patties.
3. Heat oil, fry 6 minutes per side until cooked through.
4. Drizzle with more Buffalo sauce and serve with ranch or blue cheese dip.

Optional Enhancer:

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t over-handle the mix or the patties may fall apart in the pan.

FAQ

Are tuna patties good for meal prep?

Absolutely. Most of these patties can be cooled, wrapped, and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To serve, reheat gently on a skillet, in the oven, or even in the air fryer so they stay crispy.

Which type of tuna works best?

Chunk light or solid albacore tuna both work. Tuna packed in water gives a firmer patty; tuna in oil gives richer flavor. Drain well before mixing to avoid soggy patties.

How do I keep tuna patties from falling apart?

Make sure your mixture isn’t too loose—use enough binding (egg, mayo, or breadcrumbs). If too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a little more mayo or a splash of reserved tuna water.

Can you freeze tuna patties?

Yes, freeze cooked patties in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer from frozen until hot and crisp.

Conclusion

Tuna patties are one of those dinner secrets everyone should have up their sleeve—quick, endlessly adaptable, and equally suited to a solo lunch or a family table. The recipes here prove you don’t need complicated ingredients to serve something golden and crave-worthy on a weeknight. Whether you stick with a classic or try your hand at a curried, cheesy, or spiced-up version, crispy tuna patties work for any mood or craving. The next time the pantry stares back at you, remember how much you can do with just a can (or two) of tuna and a few basics. Keep having fun and don’t be afraid to riff with your favorite flavors or leftovers—your skillet is ready.