Dinner

Crispy & Cheesy Tuna Melt Patties Recipe

Name: Crispy & Cheesy Tuna Melt Patties Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup finely diced celery; 1/4 cup finely diced onion; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

BySana Jeannette March 12, 2026March 12, 2026

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Introduction

Crispy & Cheesy Tuna Melt Patties are a delicious and easy way to enjoy tuna with a satisfying crunch and melty cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these patties come together fast and cook to golden perfection.

The image shows three thick crab cakes stacked on a wooden board, with the front crab cake broken in half to reveal its moist inside. The cakes have a crispy, dark golden brown crust with specks of green herbs on top and scattered throughout the soft, light beige filling. The background includes a small white bowl of light tan sauce, all set against a white marbled surface. The crab cakes look juicy and flavorful with a finely textured mix of crab meat and greens. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cans (5 oz) tuna, drained
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg

1/4 cup finely diced celery
1/4 cup finely diced onion

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (+ extra for coating)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, egg, celery, onion, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the mixture into 6 evenly sized patties. Lightly coat each patty in extra breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 4: Carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Remove from heat and serve the patties hot, either with your favorite sauce or tucked into a sandwich.

Tips & Variations

Substitute cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.

Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh twist.
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular for an extra crunchy texture.
Serve with a spicy mayo or tartar sauce for added zest.

Storage

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispiness, or warm in the oven. Avoid microwaving directly to keep the coating crunchy.

How to Serve

The image shows a stack of three thick, round golden-brown crab cakes on a white plate with a white marbled background. The top crab cake is cut open, revealing a creamy, melted cheese center mixed with finely chopped green herbs. The crab cakes are speckled with small green herb pieces throughout, giving a fresh look. The crispy crust is nicely browned and textured, contrasting with the soft, moist interior. There are some scattered green herb leaves on the plate around the crab cakes, adding color and detail. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh tuna, but it should be flaked and cooled before mixing with the other ingredients. The texture will be different but still delicious.

Can I bake these patties instead of frying?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a greased baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.