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Easy Pantry Tuna Patties

These Easy Pantry Tuna Patties are a fast and simple weeknight hero made with pantry staples. Ready in under 20 minutes, they are perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or casual burger alternative.
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Cook Time 10 minutes

Equipment

  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Large non-stick skillet

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 3 5-oz cans Tuna drained
  • 2 large Eggs whisked
  • 0.33 cup Grated parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tbsp Lemon zest
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 0.25 tsp Sea salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper freshly ground if possible
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil or other oil like vegetable or canola

Instructions
 

  • Drain your tuna really well and flake it into a medium-sized bowl.
  • Add the whisked eggs, grated parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh parsley, lemon zest, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper to the bowl with the tuna.
  • Gently mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • Scoop out portions of the mixture (about a 1/4 cup measure) and gently shape them into patties, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  • Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
  • Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
  • Serve hot!

Notes

Substitutions: Parmesan -> cheddar, Monterey Jack, feta; Mayonnaise -> plain Greek yogurt (texture/richness differs); Parsley -> dill or chives; Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for spice; Add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for firmer patty (optional); Add finely minced onion, bell pepper, or celery (very finely chopped).
Tips: Drain tuna well; Don't overmix; Cook over medium heat; Handle patties gently before cooking; Mixture can be prepped a day ahead and stored in fridge.
Storage: Store cooked patties in airtight container in fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently in skillet or microwave. Freeze cooked patties wrapped individually for 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating.
FAQs: Can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 mins, flipping halfway. Serve with side salad, roasted vegetables, on a bun, or with dipping sauce (tartar, remoulade, ketchup). Recipe is naturally gluten-free.