If you want a simple canned tuna recipe, these paleo tuna patties use just a few common ingredients you likely already have. They’re fast, economical and great for meal prep.
Why You Will Love These Tuna Patties
- These patties are far from bland. Canned tuna is brightened with lemon juice and zest, fresh parsley, red onion, Dijon mustard and scallions for bold flavor. They’re crisp and golden outside, moist inside.
- Perfect for meal prep: make a big batch and reheat throughout the week to enjoy on salads, in wraps, or on their own.
- A pantry-friendly, budget-conscious recipe that requires only a couple of cans of tuna and a handful of staples.
- Family-friendly — even kids tend to enjoy these. They’ve become a household favourite for many families.
- These tuna patties are Paleo, Keto, Whole30, grain-free, gluten-free and dairy-free.
How To Make Tuna Patties
This recipe is straightforward: mix the ingredients, form patties, chill briefly, and pan-fry until golden. Combine canned tuna (reserve a tablespoon of the can liquid), almond flour, parsley, lemon juice and zest, grated red onion, chopped scallions, Dijon mustard, an egg, salt and pepper. Stir to combine, form into six patties about 2 inches wide, then chill for 20 minutes to help them firm up. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook patties 4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Serve warm.
What To Look For When Buying Canned Tuna
Choose quality tuna by considering these factors:
- Type: Albacore, Yellowfin or chunk light each have different textures and flavors — pick based on preference.
- Sustainability: Look for sustainably caught labels when possible.
- Salt: Compare sodium levels across brands if you watch your salt intake.
- Packed in oil or water: Oil-packed is richer, water-packed is lighter and lower calorie.
- Brand and price: Reputable brands often provide better flavor and consistency.
Tips For Ensuring These Tuna Patties Hold Together
- Make smaller patties (about golf-ball sized) so they hold together easier.
- Don’t move them around while frying — let one side form a crust before flipping once.
- Use a large nonstick or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking.
- Chill patties for 20 minutes (or freeze 5 minutes if short on time) to firm them up before cooking.
What To Serve With Tuna Patties
These patties are versatile. Try these serving ideas:
- Serve with lemon wedges or a squeeze of lemon and a dollop of your favorite sauce.
- Top a romaine or butter lettuce salad with patties, cucumber and tomato for a light, satisfying meal.
- Use in a wrap or pita, or in a lettuce wrap for a paleo/Whole30 option with pickles and mayo.
Can I Make Tuna Patties In Advance?
Yes. Form patties and refrigerate up to 1 day before cooking. For best texture, cook just before serving. You can also cook them up to 3 days ahead and reheat briefly in a hot pan with oil to restore crispness.
How To Store Leftover Tuna Patties
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium-high with a splash of oil for 4–5 minutes, in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F for around 5 minutes.
Can I Freeze Tuna Patties?
Yes — freeze only after cooking. Freeze patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags or an airtight container. Thaw at room temperature for an hour before reheating in a pan, oven or air fryer.
If you enjoy canned tuna recipes, try other dishes that highlight pantry staples and bold flavors.
Easy Tuna Patties Recipe (Summary)
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Yields: 6 patties
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna (5 oz cans), drain and reserve 1 tbsp liquid
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp grated red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Drain the tuna, reserving 1 tablespoon of the can liquid. Add tuna and reserved liquid to a bowl and break up with a fork.
- Mix in almond flour, parsley, lemon juice and zest, red onion, scallions, mustard, egg, salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Form into six patties and place on parchment-lined plate. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties about 4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
- Serve with lemon wedges and your preferred sauce or salad.
Nutrition (per patty, approximate)
Calories: 135 kcal | Carbohydrates: 3 g | Protein: 14 g | Fat: 8 g | Sodium: 249 mg | Sugar: 1 g
Nutrition information is an approximation.
If you make this recipe, leave a comment or share a photo — it’s always great to see how yours turn out!