Delicious Tuna Burger Recipe made with canned tuna, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices. An easy, healthy, and quick dinner idea without any alcohol or pork ingredients.
Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, these Tuna Burger Recipe are for you! They are made with simple pantry ingredients like canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and spices, then cooked until crispy. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Best of all, there’s no alcohol or pork involved—just pure, healthy ingredients that make it suitable for everyone in the family.
You might also like our Crab Cake Egg Rolls.
Key Ingredients
- Canned Tuna (15 oz): Drained well.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, plus more for cooking): Adds healthy fats and moisture.
- Panko Bread Crumbs (¾ cup): Provides a crispy texture.
- Dried Parsley (1 tablespoon): For seasoning.
- Fresh Chives (2 teaspoons, minced): Adds freshness to the patties.
- Garlic (1 tablespoon, minced): Enhances the aromatic flavor.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): To taste.
- Pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a bit of heat.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds smokiness to the flavor.
- Egg (1 large, beaten): Helps bind the patties.
- Whole Wheat Burger Buns: Used for serving.
Substitutions: You can replace the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative if needed.
Equipment Needed
- Large Bowl: For mixing the tuna mixture.
- Large Skillet: For cooking the tuna patties.
- Tongs: To flip the patties while cooking.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Prepare the Tuna Mixture
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together the drained tuna, olive oil, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, chives, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and beaten egg until evenly combined.
- Form the Patties:
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Use your hands to form each portion into a patty.
Cooking the Patties
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Patties:
- Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Serve the tuna patties on whole wheat buns with your preferred toppings, such as lettuce, tomato slices, and red onion.
Chef’s Secrets
- Use Well-Drained Tuna: Make sure the tuna is properly drained to avoid a soggy mixture.
- Chill the Patties: Chill the patties for 10-15 minutes before cooking if they seem too soft. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.
- Crispy Texture: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
Alternative Versions or Modifications
- Spicy Tuna Burgers: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace tuna with mashed chickpeas for a plant-based version.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining Tuna Properly: If the tuna is not drained well, the patties will be too wet and fall apart.
- Overcooking the Patties: Be sure not to overcook; the patties should be golden brown on the outside and still moist inside.
- Not Using Enough Binding: Make sure to use the beaten egg fully to keep the patties from falling apart.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Your Favorite Toppings: Top the burger with avocado, pickles, or sliced onions for more flavor.
- Serve with a Side Salad: These Tuna Burger Recipe pair well with a light mixed greens salad for a complete meal.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 290 kcal per serving
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
A healthy, high-protein meal that is perfect for those on a budget.
FAQs
- Q: Can I bake the tuna patties instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. - Q: What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
A: You can use oats or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free alternative. - Q: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Just cook and flake the fresh tuna before mixing it with the other ingredients. - Q: Can these burgers be frozen?
A: Yes, shape the patties and freeze them before cooking. When ready to use, thaw and cook as directed. - Q: How can I make the burgers more flavorful?
A: Add a bit of lemon zest or Dijon mustard to the tuna mixture for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Sweet Potato Fries: Serve these burgers with a side of baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
- As a Salad Topper: Instead of a bun, serve the patty over a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette.
- With Tartar Sauce: Add a dollop of homemade tartar sauce to enhance the flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freeze: Uncooked patties can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before cooking.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Conclusion
These Tuna Burger Recipe are not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make. They’re a great alternative to beef burgers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light summer lunch. Whether served on a bun or over a bed of greens, these tuna burgers Recipe are sure to become a family favorite. For more seafood-inspired meals, don’t forget to check out our Crab Cake Egg Rolls.
