There’s something utterly comforting about the savory aroma of frying tuna patties wafting through the kitchen. It’s a simple dish that never fails to impress, blending the bold flavor of tuna with a hint of sweetness from sugar and a creamy touch thanks to mayonnaise. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful addition to your next gathering, these trending tuna patties are the answer.
I discovered this recipe one rainy afternoon when takeout just felt too uninspired. After rummaging through my pantry, I found a can of tuna and some fresh ingredients I had on hand. What started as a search for a meal turned into a culinary adventure that resulted in these perfectly crispy patties.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility—you can serve them on bread with cheese for a heartwarming sandwich or as bite-sized appetizers at your next party. Let’s dive into this uncomplicated recipe that’s bound to add some excitement back into your dinner routine.
Why will you love Trending Tuna Pie?
Simplicity at Its Best: The ease of this recipe makes it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Flavors that Sing: Each bite bursts with savory tuna, complemented by sweet and creamy elements.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on bread with cheese or as stand-alone snacks for your guests.
Quick and Satisfying: This dish transforms pantry staples into a mouthwatering meal in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Your family and friends will rave about these tasty patties at every gathering!
Trending Tuna Pie Ingredients
For the Patties
• Tuna Flakes – 180 grams of tender tuna brings a savory richness to your patties.
• Onion – 1 piece, finely chopped, adds a wonderful crunch and flavor depth.
• Mayonnaise – 1 ½ Tbsp provides creaminess and keeps the patties moist.
• Sugar – 1 tsp balances the savory notes, enhancing the overall taste.
• Salt – A pinch helps to bring all the flavors together.
• Black Pepper – A dash adds a subtle warmth and completes the seasoning.
• Egg – 1 piece acts as a binder, ensuring your patties hold their shape.
• Breadcrumbs – ½ cup for that crispy exterior everyone loves.
For Cooking
• Cooking Oil – 1 cup is essential for frying until golden, creating that irresistible crunch.
For Serving
• Bread – Use your favorite type to create a delightful sandwich with the patties.
• Cheese – Adds a melty, creamy layer that elevates each bite of your trending tuna pie!
How to Make Trending Tuna Pie
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Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine 180 grams of tuna flakes, finely chopped onion, 1½ tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 egg. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy.
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Season and Combine: Add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper to the mixture. Then, sprinkle in ½ cup of breadcrumbs and mix thoroughly until a thick patty mixture forms, ready for frying.
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Form Patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties that are about 1 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and maintain their shape during frying.
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Heat Oil: In a large skillet, pour in 1 cup of cooking oil and heat over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, indicating it’s ready for frying.
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Fry Patties: Carefully place the formed patties in the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. This adds a delightful crunch!
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the pan and place them on bread with cheese. Enjoy the melty goodness and savory flavors of your delicious trending tuna pie!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Trending Tuna Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this recipe to your liking with these delicious twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a delightful heat. Just a touch will elevate every bite!
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Herb Fusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or parsley for a burst of freshness and a gourmet touch. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
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Cheese Lovers: Mix in shredded cheese, like cheddar or feta, for an oozy delight within the patties. This twist boosts flavor and adds a creamy texture!
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Zucchini Boost: Grate and squeeze excess moisture from zucchini before adding it to the mix, adding health benefits and a delightful texture. A wonderful way to sneak in more veggies!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish accessible for everyone without sacrificing flavor. You won’t miss the regular ones!
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Mediterranean Style: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives for an exciting Mediterranean twist, taking your taste buds on a flavorful journey. These ingredients offer a vibrant taste explosion!
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Crispy Panko Coating: Swap regular breadcrumbs for panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crunch that your family will love! They create an irresistible crunch on the outside.
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Sautéed Spinach: Mix in a handful of sautéed spinach into your patties, adding nutrients and a rich depth of flavor to each bite. It’s an easy way to boost the nutritional value too!
What to Serve with Trending Tuna Pie?
Looking to create a memorable meal that complements your crispy, savory patties?
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Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that adds a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of tuna, making every bite extraordinary. It’s a perfect palette cleanser!
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, toasty goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully, providing a crunchy texture that enhances the meal with every bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: A simple, vibrant salad brings freshness and lightness to your plate, balancing the richness of the patties with bright flavors of lemon and herbs.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and savory fries add a delightful twist, complementing the tuna with their natural sweetness and extra crunch. They’re an irresistible combo!
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Dilled Potato Salad: Creamy potatoes with a hint of dill marry perfectly with the patties, enhancing their flavor while adding a heartiness that can’t be beaten.
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Chilled Cucumber Soup: Light and refreshing, this soup cools the palate, providing a delightful contrast next to your warm, crispy tuna creation.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea can elevate your dining experience, adding a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
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Apple Crisp: Finish off with a warm apple crisp; its sweet and tart flavors serve as a delightful contrast to the savory tuna, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.
Expert Tips for Trending Tuna Pie
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh tuna if possible; it enhances flavor and texture compared to canned alternatives, taking your trending tuna pie to the next level.
• Egg Perfectly: Ensure your egg is well beaten before adding it to the mixture. This helps bind the patties properly and keeps them from falling apart while frying.
• Chill Before Frying: If time allows, refrigerate the formed patties for 20-30 minutes before frying. This helps them set, reducing the risk of them breaking apart in the hot oil.
• Oil Temperature: To avoid soggy patties, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil isn’t hot, the patties will absorb too much oil!
• Breadcrumb Coating: For an even crispier texture, double coat your patties. Dredge them in flour before the egg mixture, then roll them in breadcrumbs again for an extra crunch.
• Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, are wonderful toppings. They’ll add both flavor and visual appeal to your trending tuna pie!
How to Store and Freeze Trending Tuna Pie
Fridge: Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months without losing quality.
Reheating: Reheat frozen patties directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring they are heated through. Enjoy your delicious trending tuna pie anytime!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving patties at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness and safety.
Make Ahead Options
These trending tuna pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts wanting to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the tuna mixture (tuna flakes, chopped onion, mayonnaise, sugar, egg, salt, and black pepper) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you want to take it a step further, you can also form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days—simply layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the oil in a pan and fry the patties until they’re golden brown and crispy. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade trending tuna pies with minimal effort!
Trending Tuna Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of tuna is best for the patties?
I recommend using high-quality tuna flakes for the best flavor and texture. Canned tuna is convenient, but fresh tuna can elevate your trending tuna pie considerably. If using canned, opt for tuna packed in water or olive oil for a richer taste.
How do I know when my patties are ready to fry?
Once you’ve shaped the patties, they should feel firm and hold their shape. If your mixture seems too loose, consider adding a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it better. It’s also a good idea to let them chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before frying to avoid any breakage.
How should I store leftovers of my trending tuna pie?
Keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer to store them longer, freezing is a great option! Just wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag—this way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Can I reheat frozen patties?
Absolutely! To reheat your frozen patties, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place patties directly on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy. This is a fantastic way to enjoy your trending tuna pie at any time!
Are these patties suitable for people with gluten allergies?
You can easily make these patties gluten-free! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. This way, those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy your delicious trending tuna pie without worry.
What are some popular dips to serve alongside?
I love serving these patties with a zesty tartar sauce or a creamy garlic mayo. A squeeze of lemon on top can brighten the flavors beautifully too! Explore different dipping sauces to see what you and your guests enjoy the most.
Delicious Trending Tuna Pie That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine 180 grams of tuna flakes, finely chopped onion, 1½ tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 egg. Stir until well blended.
- Add a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper to the mixture. Sprinkle in ½ cup of breadcrumbs and mix thoroughly until a thick patty mixture forms.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into patties about 1 inch thick.
- In a large skillet, pour in 1 cup of cooking oil and heat over medium heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place the formed patties in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove patties from the pan and place them on bread with cheese. Enjoy!