After a long day spent juggling work and family, I often find myself staring into the fridge, hoping for a culinary miracle. That’s when I discovered the joy of Easy Tinned Tuna Burgers—a delightful solution that transforms humble canned tuna into a savory sensation in no time! The moment I mix in herbs, a hint of lemon, and a sprinkle of parmesan, a burst of flavor fills the kitchen, making dinner feel special even on the busiest nights.
These tuna burgers are not just quick; they’re versatile and nutritious, making them perfect for an effortless lunch or a satisfying dinner. Whether you choose to fry them to a golden crisp or bake them for a lighter option, you’ll find these burgers are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table, all while staying under 20 minutes. So, let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe, and reclaim mealtime with a burst of flavor!
Why are Tinned Tuna Burgers a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: Whip up these burgers in under 20 minutes, making meal prep a breeze after a long day.
Nutritious Twist: Packed with protein and healthy ingredients, they are a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Options: Fry or bake them to your liking, or mix in extra veggies for added flavor.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, satisfying even the pickiest eaters!
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing canned tuna makes this dish easy on the wallet without compromising on taste.
Feel free to explore more delicious ideas, like serving them with a refreshing salad or cooking them to perfection.
Tinned Tuna Burger Ingredients
For the Burger Mixture
- Egg – Binds the mixture together; substitute with an additional tablespoon of mayo for a no-egg option.
- Parmesan – Adds richness and depth; can be replaced with any hard cheese of choice.
- Spring Onions – Provides fresh flavor; substitute with finely diced brown onion if unavailable.
- Breadcrumbs – Offers texture; use panko for extra crunch or make your own from stale bread.
- Mixed Herbs – Enhances flavor; use your favorite herb blend or fresh herbs for a brighter taste.
- Lemon – Adds brightness; use zest and juice for best results.
- Low Fat Mayo – Adds moisture; replace with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.
- Garlic Puree – Imparts strong garlic flavor; use minced fresh garlic as an alternative.
- Tinned Tuna – Acts as the protein base; ensure it’s drained well. Opt for tuna in spring water for a lighter burger.
- Olive Oil – Necessary for frying to achieve a crispy crust; can substitute with any neutral oil.
For the Optional Spicy Mayo Sauce
- Low-Fat Mayo – Provides a creamy base; blend with sweet chili sauce for flavor.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a sweet and spicy kick; adjust to taste for your preferred heat level.
- Honey – Sweetens the sauce; feel free to omit for a lower sugar option.
- Chili Puree – For extra heat; add according to preference.
These Tinned Tuna Burgers won’t just satisfy your hunger, they’ll excite your taste buds too!
How to Make Tinned Tuna Burgers
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Combine: In a large mixing bowl, crack in the egg, add parmesan, spring onions, breadcrumbs, mixed herbs, lemon zest and juice, mayo, garlic puree, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined, making sure to blend the flavors well.
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Fold: Gently fold in the drained tinned tuna, being careful not to overmix the mixture. You want the tuna to stay chunky, which adds texture to your burgers!
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Shape: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Using your hands, shape each portion into palm-sized burgers, ensuring they’re compact but not too dense.
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For Shallow Frying: Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Once hot, carefully place the burgers in the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
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For Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 170°C (375°F). Place the shaped burgers on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
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Serve: Once cooked, serve your delicious tinned tuna burgers hot with your favorite sides. They’re great in a bun with lettuce and tomato or beside a fresh salad!
Optional: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the burgers for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Tinned Tuna Burgers
- Avoid Overmixing: Keep the texture intact by gently folding in the tuna to avoid a dense burger.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the burgers when frying to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy crust.
- Bake for Health: Opt for baking instead of frying for a lighter meal—just as flavorful and easier on the waistline!
- Storage Strategy: Uncooked tinned tuna burgers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months; perfect for quick meals later!
Tinned Tuna Burgers Variations & Substitutions
Get creative in the kitchen and tailor your tinned tuna burgers to your taste buds.
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Veggie Boost: Add diced bell pepper or grated carrot for a nutrient-packed punch and a touch of sweetness.
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Different Fish: Swap the tuna for canned salmon or mackerel to change up the flavor and texture.
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Chickpea Delight: For a vegetarian twist, replace the tuna with mashed chickpeas or black beans for a hearty alternative.
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Cheesy Flavor: Experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for a unique, savory profile.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat to the party!
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Herb Variations: Try fresh dill or parsley instead of mixed herbs for a refreshing lift and vibrant color.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats as an alternative to standard breadcrumbs for a gluten-friendly burger.
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Zesty Lime: Replace lemon with lime juice and zest for a tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the fish.
With these delightful tweaks, your tinned tuna burgers can surprise and please every palate at the table!
Storage Tips for Tinned Tuna Burgers
Fridge: Store uncooked tinned tuna burgers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them well-covered to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months, keeping their delightful flavor intact.
Reheating: Cooked burgers can be reheated in a pan over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side or in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the delightful taste of your tinned tuna burgers anytime!
Serving: For best results, serve your reheated burgers with fresh sides like a crisp salad or your favorite condiments.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Tinned Tuna Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the burger mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients except the tuna, then refrigerate it. To maintain quality, be sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent any odors from seeping in. When you’re ready to cook, gently fold in the drained tuna, shape into burgers, and fry or bake as instructed. If you’d like to go further, shaped uncooked burgers can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking, ensuring they’ll be just as delicious and juicy as freshly made!
What to Serve with Easy Tinned Tuna Burgers?
Pairing a delicious side with your tuna burgers can elevate this quick meal into a delightful experience that everyone will remember. Let’s make every bite count!
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture of sweet potato fries complement the savory flavors of the tuna burgers perfectly.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh green salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the burger. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumber for added flavor.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw pairs beautifully, providing a creamy contrast that enhances the burger’s taste.
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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: This veggie side hints at earthiness and complements the garlic notes in the tuna burgers, making each bite more sensational.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: This cool, creamy dip is an excellent counterpoint to the tuna’s fishiness; spread it on the bun for an extra layer of flavor.
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Spicy Mayo Sauce: Whip up a batch of spicy mayo for a little heat on the side. Its creamy texture and spicy kick perfectly tie the meal together.
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Lemon Rice: Light and fluffy lemon rice adds a zesty touch. The citrus brings out the bright flavors of the burgers and makes the meal feel vibrant.
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Chilled White Wine: For a refreshing drink, pair these delicious burgers with a chilled glass of crisp white wine, which can enhance the dining experience beautifully.
By mixing and matching these sides, you can easily create a wholesome meal that caters to everyone’s taste buds!
Tinned Tuna Burgers Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best tinned tuna for my burgers?
Absolutely! Opt for tuna packed in spring water for a lighter flavor and better texture. If you’re looking for something richer, tuna in olive oil will add a bit more depth. Just make sure to drain it well to avoid soggy burgers. Look for cans without any dark spots or damage; they’ll ensure you’re making a safe choice!
How should I store uncooked tinned tuna burgers?
Very! Uncooked tinned tuna burgers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Just wrap them well to maintain their freshness. If you’ve prepped ahead, freezing them is also a great option! Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag, which allows for easy portioning later.
Can I freeze cooked tinned tuna burgers?
Absolutely! Cooked tinned tuna burgers can be frozen for up to 3 months, making them a perfect meal prep solution. To freeze, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or a pan.
What should I do if my burgers fall apart while cooking?
If your burgers are falling apart, it could be due to not having enough binding ingredients or being overmixed. To remedy this, try adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs or incorporating more egg to the mixture next time. Also, ensure you’re gently folding in the tuna so it retains its texture. If you’re frying, give them time to set up in the pan before flipping; they’ll firm up as they cook!
Can I make these tuna burgers gluten-free?
Very! To make gluten-free tinned tuna burgers, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a binding agent. Just be sure to check labels on all your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. They’ll still pack as much flavor and delight!
Are tinned tuna burgers safe for pets?
When it comes to pets, it’s wise to share thoughtfully. While plain tuna is generally safe for dogs and cats in moderation, beware of any seasoning or sauces you add to your burgers. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to pets. Offer them a plain tuna patty as a treat instead, and they’ll love you for it!
Tinned Tuna Burgers: Quick, Healthy Delight for Any Meal
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, crack in the egg, add parmesan, spring onions, breadcrumbs, mixed herbs, lemon zest and juice, mayo, garlic puree, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until just combined.
- Gently fold in the drained tinned tuna, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into palm-sized burgers.
- For shallow frying, heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Cook the burgers for 6-8 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- For oven baking, preheat your oven to 170°C (375°F). Place the shaped burgers on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.