What Are Tuna & Potato Patties?
Tuna and potato patties are pan-fried savory cakes made by combining:
- Flaked tuna
- Mashed potatoes
- Vegetables (peas, carrots, onions)
- Eggs and breadcrumbs
They are shaped into thick rounds and fried until crispy on the outside while remaining moist and soft inside.
They can be served as:
- A main dish
- A sandwich filling
- A snack
- A lunchbox meal
- A party appetizer
Why This Recipe Works So Well
✔ Potatoes keep patties moist
✔ Tuna provides protein and flavor
✔ Vegetables add color and texture
✔ Pan-frying creates a crispy crust
✔ No oven required
✔ Freezer-friendly
Ingredients (Makes 12–14 Patties)
Main Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes (about 500 g), boiled and mashed
- 2 cans tuna (160–200 g each), drained very well
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely grated
- ½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or green onion
Binders & Seasoning
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional but excellent)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Frying pan
- Spatula
- Plate with paper towels
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
Drain very well and mash until smooth.
Important Tip
Potatoes must be dry, not watery. Excess moisture will make patties fall apart.
Let mashed potatoes cool slightly before mixing.
Step 2: Prepare the Tuna
Drain tuna thoroughly. Press it gently with a spoon to remove all excess liquid.
Flake it lightly using a fork.
Why This Matters
Too much moisture from tuna is the #1 reason patties break while frying.
Step 3: Combine the Base
In a large bowl, add:
- Mashed potatoes
- Tuna
- Onion
- Grated carrot
- Green peas
- Parsley
Mix gently until evenly combined.
Step 4: Add Egg & Seasoning
Add:
- Egg
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Cumin
Mix until well incorporated.
Step 5: Add Breadcrumbs
Add breadcrumbs gradually.
The mixture should be:
- Soft but firm
- Not sticky
- Easy to shape
If it feels wet, add a little more breadcrumbs.
Step 6: Rest the Mixture
Cover and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.
This step:
- Firms the mixture
- Improves texture
- Makes shaping easier
Step 7: Shape the Patties
Using your hands:
- Take about 2 tablespoons of mixture
- Roll into a ball
- Flatten gently into a thick disc
Aim for even size for uniform cooking.
Step 8: Pan-Fry the Patties
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add patties carefully (do not overcrowd).
Cook for:
- 3–4 minutes per side
- Until golden brown and crispy
Flip gently using a spatula.
Step 9: Drain & Rest
Remove patties and place on paper towels.
Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
This helps them set and stay crispy.
Texture & Flavor Profile
- Outside: Golden, crispy, lightly crunchy
- Inside: Soft, fluffy, moist
- Flavor: Savory, mild, comforting
- Aroma: Warm spices, herbs, and tuna
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Watery potatoes
❌ Not draining tuna properly
❌ Frying on high heat
❌ Overcrowding the pan
❌ Flipping too early
Delicious Variations
Cheesy Tuna Patties
Add grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella).
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or chopped chili.
No-Egg Version
Replace egg with extra mashed potato.
Oven-Baked Option
Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Green salad 🥗
- Yogurt sauce or garlic mayo
- Rice or couscous
- In a sandwich or burger bun
Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: 3 days
- Freezer (uncooked): up to 2 months
Cook directly from frozen — no thawing needed.
Why Families Love This Recipe
✔ Budget-friendly
✔ Kid-approved
✔ Nutritious
✔ Easy to customize
✔ Meal-prep friendly
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Tuna & Potato Patties are comforting, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them hot for dinner or cold in a lunchbox, they always deliver great flavor and texture.