Tuna Cakes are one of those dishes that somehow manage to feel both nostalgic and fresh. Growing up, my mom made these when we needed something quick, comforting, and made from pantry staples. They’re crispy, flavorful, and perfect with a dollop of aioli or sandwiched between bread for an easy tuna burger.
This modern version brings together bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and a crispy golden crust—all without breaking the bank. Let’s get frying!
🌟 Why You’ll Love These Tuna Cakes
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable pantry ingredients.
- Quick to make: Dinner in under 30 minutes.
- Great for meal prep: Reheat well and freeze beautifully.
- Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or switch up the binder.
- High in protein: A wholesome and filling main or snack.
Table of Contents
🐟 Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable) for frying
🔥 Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, breadcrumbs, onion, celery, mayonnaise, mustard, eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Form the Cakes
- Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 small patties. If too soft, chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Cook ‘Em Crispy
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook cakes for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm with lemon wedges, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- No breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers, cooked quinoa, or almond flour.
- Add spice: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño.
- Herby upgrade: Add dill, cilantro, or chives for extra freshness.
- Dairy-free: Skip cheese or dairy-based sauces.
- Low-carb: Swap breadcrumbs with almond meal or flaxseed meal.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Flash freeze on a baking sheet, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight.
- Reheat: In a skillet over low heat or air fryer for extra crispiness.
🍴 Perfect Pairings
- Dipping sauces: Lemon garlic aioli, tartar sauce, sriracha mayo.
- Sides: Roasted veggies, coleslaw, or a fresh cucumber salad.
- Buns & wraps: Make a tuna burger with lettuce and tomato or tuck into a pita with tzatziki.
Tuna Cakes
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 (Makes 8 cakes)
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Frying (or Baking)
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy, comforting, and packed with flavor—these easy Tuna Cakes are a nostalgic pantry classic perfect for quick dinners or lunches!
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 1/4 cup finely diced celery
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable) for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Base
- In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, breadcrumbs, onion, celery, mayonnaise, mustard, eggs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Form the Cakes
- Using your hands, form the mixture into 8 small patties. If too soft, chill in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Cook ‘Em Crispy
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook cakes for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve warm with lemon wedges, a side salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- No breadcrumbs? Use crushed crackers, cooked quinoa, or almond flour.
- Add spice: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño.
- Herby upgrade: Add dill, cilantro, or chives for extra freshness.
- Dairy-free: Skip cheese or dairy-based sauces.
- Low-carb: Swap breadcrumbs with almond meal or flaxseed meal.
Keywords: tuna cakes, canned tuna recipes, easy fish patties, healthy tuna patties, budget-friendly dinner, quick seafood recipe, tuna burgers, pantry meals, crispy tuna cakes, high-protein meal
❓ FAQ: Tuna Cakes
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use fresh tuna?
Sure—just cook and flake it before mixing. Canned tuna keeps things easy and accessible.
How do I keep the cakes from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture isn’t too wet, and chill before frying if it’s soft.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
🧡 Crispy Comfort in Every Bite
These Tuna Cakes are everything we love in a meal: quick, comforting, and made with love from humble ingredients. Whether you serve them up for a family dinner or pack them for lunch, they’ll bring flavor and satisfaction to every bite.
