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Close-up of tuna cakes stacked on a wooden board, garnished with parsley.

Tuna Cakes

  • Author: Emily
  • 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