Healthy Tuna Patties (Tuna Cutlets)

Looking for a quick and delicious dinner option? Look no further than these Tuna Patties! This versatile dish is perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re strapped for time. To make them, simply combine canned tuna, bread, eggs, and your favorite seasonings. Shape the mixture into patties, bread them, and then cook them. Want to go the healthy route? Bake them in the oven. Or, for something slightly more indulgent, the patties can also be fried. The result is a crispy exterior with a tender and flavorful interior. Whether you prefer baked or fried, these tuna patties are sure to satisfy your cravings.

What Are Tuna Cutlets?

Tuna cutlets are a delicious and satisfying dish made by combining canned tuna with bread, eggs, and seasonings to form patties. They are then breaded and cooked in a skillet or oven. The result is a crispy exterior with a tender and flavorful interior.

While the exact origin of tuna cutlets is unclear, the dish likely developed in a region with access to both canned tuna and bread. The combination of these ingredients would have made for a hearty and convenient meal, especially during times when fresh meat was scarce.

Tuna cutlets can be served with a variety of sides, including salads, vegetables, and pasta. It’s a simple dish to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. You can add your favorite seasonings and ingredients to tuna cutlets to create your own unique flavor.

Tips

• Use high-quality canned tuna. Opt for tuna packed in olive oil for a richer flavor, or drain the tuna and add your own favorite seasonings.
• Experiment with different breading options. Try using panko breadcrumbs for a crispier exterior, or add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the tuna mixture, such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper.
• Bake the cutlets until they are cooked through and golden brown, or fry them until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Serve with your favorite sides. Tuna cutlets pair well with a variety of sides, including salads, vegetables, and pasta.

What Is the Best Type of Tuna to Use for Tuna Cutlets?

Canned tuna in oil is often preferred for its richer flavor. However, you can also use tuna packed in water and add your own oil or seasonings.

Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned Tuna?

Yes, and it'll offer a richer flavor and firmer texture. To prepare, cook the fresh tuna fillets thoroughly by grilling, baking, or searing them until fully cooked and opaque. Once cooled, flake the tuna into small pieces, breaking it apart with a fork or by hand. Use these flakes in place of the canned tuna, following the same steps in the original recipe.

How Do I Prevent the Tuna Cutlets from Falling Apart?

Ensure that the bread and eggs are well combined with the tuna mixture. Also, be careful not to over handle the cutlets when shaping them.

What Can I Serve with Tuna Cutlets?

Tuna cutlets pair well with a variety of sides, including salads, vegetables, and pasta.

Can I Make Tuna Cutlets Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the tuna mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it is best to bread and cook the cutlets shortly before serving.

What Are Some Variations for Tuna Cutlets?

You can add different seasonings, herbs, or vegetables to the tuna mixture to create unique flavors. You can also experiment with different breading options, such as panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I Make These in The Air Fryer?

Of course! Preheat it to 180°C (350°F), arrange the cutlets in a single layer, and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until crispy and golden. This method reduces oil use while maintaining a crispy texture.

More Tuna Recipes You'll Love

Tuna Salad

Tuna Melt Sandwich

Avocado Tuna Melt Bites

Tuna Spinach Patties

Tuna Stuffed Zucchini

How to Store Tuna Cutlets

Tuna cutlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days after cooking. Allow the cooked tuna cutlets to cool to room temperature before storing.

To reheat the cutlets, you can place the cutlet on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

How To Make Tuna Cutlets

In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, drained tuna, beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Moisten your hands with a little water. Take portions of the mixture and shape them into cutlet-like patties.

Dredge each cutlet in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

To bake: Place the breaded cutlets on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Drizzle with olive oil. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 25 minutes, or until cooked through.

To fry: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the breaded cutlets and cook until golden brown on both sides.

Arrange the cooked cutlets on a serving dish and enjoy!