This tuna burger patty recipe is one of the best ways to transform tuna into a flavorful, juicy, protein packed Tuna burger. It feels lighter and fresher than a traditional beef burger while still being deeply satisfying. Whether made with canned tuna or fresh tuna steaks, it’s savory, crisp on the outside, and sturdy enough to hold together beautifully inside a bun.
Who can imagine a can of tuna can make two delicious tuna patties like these that make perfect tuna burgers! This is one of the best ways to stretch a humble jarred or canned tuna!
Some of our favorite canned tuna recipes include Tuna Pasta, Tuna Cucumber Salad, Tuna Noodle Casserole, Tuna Salad Recipe. You can likewise make this tuna burger with fresh tuna like these Salmon Burgers. Even leftovers Seared Ahi Tuna could be used here.
What Is a Tuna Burger?
Tuna burger is a burger style patty made primarily from tuna combined with binders, aromatics, herbs, and seasonings. The mixture is shaped into patties and cooked until golden on the outside and tender inside.
You can make tuna burgers with canned tuna, fresh tuna steaks, seared ahi tuna. Unlike a tuna melt or tuna sandwich, a tuna burger is designed to have the texture and structure of a true burger patty.
Similar to seafood cakes, these have originated in coastal cuisines for generations, especially as economical ways to stretch seafood into hearty meals. Fresh tuna burgers gained popularity in restaurants during the rise of lighter seafood focused cuisine, while canned tuna burgers became a favorite affordable home cooking option.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- High in protein and deeply satisfying
- Lighter than traditional beef burgers
- Works with canned or fresh tuna
- Crispy outside with juicy interior
- Easy weeknight dinner
- Meal-prep friendly
- Highly customizable
- Mediterranean-inspired flavor potential
- Great for grilling, pan frying, or air frying
- Budget-friendly with canned tuna
Ingredients You’ll Need
Tuna
The main ingredient. Canned tuna creates convenience and affordability, while fresh tuna offers a meatier burger texture.
- Choose solid canned tuna packed in water or olive oil for the best texture.
- Albacore tuna has a firmer, meatier texture.
- Yellowfin and ahi tuna are excellent for fresh tuna burgers.
- Drain canned tuna extremely well to prevent soggy patties.
Breadcrumbs
Help absorb moisture and stabilize the patties.
Eggs
Act as the primary binder to keep the tuna burger patties intact.
Mayonnaise & Dijon Mustard
Add moisture and richness along with some savory depth. You can use Spicy Mayo or Harissa Aioli for extra flavor compared to the mayo only. Sour cream can be substituted for a richer taste.
Green onions, lemon Zest, Lemon juice, Garlic, Herbs & Seasoning
These provide sweetness and aromatic flavor. Lemon adds the perfect tang and brightness to the tuna patty recipe. The herbs bring freshness, you can use fresh parsley, dill, chives, cilantro or a blend.
You can minced garlic and celery for that savory taste as well. We also love capers in the mixture or even olives. The simplest seasoning of salt and black pepper are essential, you can add chili flakes.
Optional Additions
- Jalapeños
- Capers
- Parmesan
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
How to Make Tuna Burger
- Drain the tuna extremely well.
- Flake and mash the tuna into a mixing bowl.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, onion, garlic, herbs, and seasonings in a medium bowl.
- Mix gently until the mixture holds together.
- Shape the tuna mixture into burger patties of even thickness.
- Refrigerate briefly to help firm the patties.
- Heat a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the tuna burger patties until golden and crisp on both sides.
Assemble the Tuna Burger
- Toast the buns lightly if desired, spread some spicy mayo, Tartar Sauce Recipe, Harissa Aioli, Poblano Sauce.
- Add some red onion slices, avocados, pickles and your favorite burger or tuna add ons.
- Place the burger patty on top of the toppings.
- Add the top bun and your burgers are ready. You can serve them and enjoy!
Fresh Tuna Burger Method
- Finely chop fresh tuna steaks by hand, similar to our Salmon Burgers.
- Combine with seasonings and minimal binders and shape gently into patties.
- Sear over medium high heat until browned outside while keeping the interior tender.
- Assemble the burgers and serve immediately.
Expert Tips For Tuna Burgers
- Drain canned tuna very thoroughly.
- Chill patties before cooking to prevent breaking.
- Avoid overmixing the mixture.
- Use medium heat instead of very high heat to prevent burning before the interior sets.
- Flip carefully only once when possible.
- Wet hands lightly when shaping patties to prevent sticking.
- Add mayonnaise for juicier tuna burgers.
- Fresh tuna burgers should not be overcooked.
Why Do Tuna Burgers Need Binders
Unlike beef burgers, tuna contains little fat or collagen, so eggs and breadcrumbs provide structure.
Cooking On Medium Heat Work Best
Gentler heat allows the patties to firm internally before the exterior becomes too dark.
Chilling is Crucial for Texture
Cold patties hold together more effectively during flipping.
Why Fresh Tuna Creates a Different Burger
Fresh tuna produces a steak like burger texture, while canned tuna creates a softer seafood cake style burger.
Tuna Burger Variations
- Canned tuna burger patties: The most affordable and convenient version using pantry tuna.
- Fresh tuna burgers:Â Uses chopped tuna steaks for a meatier texture.
- Spicy tuna burgers: Include jalapeños, chili flakes, or spicy mayo.
- Mediterranean tuna burgers: Features herbs, lemon, feta, and olive oil flavors.
- Air fryer tuna burgers: Crispy patties cooked with less oil.
- Grilled tuna burgers: Fresh tuna patties cooked outdoors on a BBQ for smoky flavor.
- Low carb tuna burger patties: Uses almond flour or reduced breadcrumbs.
- Japanese inspired tuna burgers:Â Includes soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
Serving and Pairings
- Sides: Sweet potato fries, Coleslaw, Zucchini Fries, Air Fryer Frozen French Fries, Snap Pea Salad
- Sauces: Spicy Mayo, Tartar Sauce Recipe, Harissa Aioli, Garlic Sauce
- Toppings: Lettuce, Tomato, Red onion, Avocado, Pickled onions, Cucumber
- Best Buns: Brioche buns, Potato buns, Whole wheat buns, Pretzel bun
Why Tuna Patties Fall Apart
Tuna lacks the connective tissue and fat found in beef, so binders like eggs and breadcrumbs are essential.
Moisture Balance is Crucial
Too much moisture creates mushy burgers, while too little makes them dry and crumbly.
Why Chilling Helps
Refrigerating the patties before cooking firms the mixture and improves structural stability.
Troubleshooting
- Tuna Burger Patties Fall Apart: The mixture likely needs more binder or additional chilling time before cooking.
- What if Burgers Are Mushy: The tuna was not drained thoroughly enough or too many wet ingredients were added.
- Tuna Burgers Are Dry: Too many breadcrumbs or overcooking can dry out the patties.
- Patties Stick to the Pan: The pan was not preheated properly or there was lack of oil.
- Burgers Burn Outside Before Heating Through: The heat was too high in the skillet.
- Tuna Flavor Feels Too Strong: Add more lemon juice, herbs, or creamy sauce to balance the flavor.
- Fresh Tuna Burgers Feel Tough: In this case the fresh tuna was overcooked.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Cooked tuna burger patties keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Uncooked patties freeze especially well when separated with parchment paper.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet, oven, or air fryer to maintain crisp texture.
- Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the tuna patties ahead and cook fresh when ready to serve.
Can I make tuna burgers with canned tuna?
Yes. Canned tuna is one of the most popular and affordable options for tuna burger patties.
What goes well on a tuna burger?
Lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickled onions, spicy mayo, lemon aioli, and fresh herbs pair especially well.
Are tuna burgers healthy?
Yes. Tuna burgers are typically high in protein and lower in saturated fat than beef burgers. You can make them gluten-free by using almond flour.
Can I grill tuna burgers?
Fresh tuna burgers grill especially well because they have a firmer texture. Follow our Grilled Trout : How to Grill Fish without it sticking guide.
How long do tuna burgers take to cook?
Most tuna burgers cook quickly and only need a few minutes per side depending on thickness.
What is the best tuna for tuna burgers?
Solid albacore canned tuna works well for canned versions, while ahi or yellowfin tuna are excellent for fresh tuna burgers.
Can I air fry tuna burger patties?
Yes. Air frying creates crisp patties with less oil.
Why are my tuna patties dry?
Overcooking or too many dry ingredients can remove moisture from the mixture.
Tuna Recipes
Tuna Crudo
Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
Tuna Pasta
Tuna Wrap
Seared Ahi Tuna
Tuna Tartare
Tuna Tataki
Ahi Tuna Salad
Spicy Tuna Sandwich
Tuna Burger Patty Recipe
Ingredients
Tunna Burger Patty Recipe
- 1 can tuna well drained and well mashed
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 1 Tablespoon Mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons green onions minced
- 1 tablespoon capers drained
- 1 tablespoon herbs dill, parsley or a combo, finely minced
- 1/4 Teaspoon salt and pepper and chili flakes, optional
Tuna Burger
- 2 burger buns any type
- 1 Tablespoons Spicy mayo or your favorite sauce
- 1/4 cup salad greens
- 1/4 cup red onion sliced
- 1 avocado thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon pickles
Instructions
-
Drain the tuna extremely well.
-
Flake and mash the tuna into a mixing bowl.
-
Add breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, onion, capers, herbs, and seasonings in a medium bowl.
-
Mix gently until the mixture holds together.
-
Shape the tuna mixture into burger patties of even thickness.
-
Refrigerate briefly to help firm the patties.
-
Heat a skillet with a little olive oil over medium heat.
-
Cook the tuna burger patties until golden and crisp on both sides.
-
Assemble the Tuna Burger
-
Toast the buns lightly if desired, spread some spicy mayo, Tartar Sauce Recipe, Harissa Aioli, Poblano Sauce.
-
Add some red onion slices, avocados, pickles and your favorite burger or tuna add ons.
-
Place the burger patty on top of the toppings.
-
Add the top bun and your burgers are ready. You can serve them and enjoy!
-
Fresh Tuna Burger Method
-
Finely chop fresh tuna steaks by hand, similar to our Salmon Burgers.
-
Combine with seasonings and minimal binders and shape gently into patties.
-
Sear over medium high heat until browned outside while keeping the interior tender.
-
Assemble the burgers and serve immediately.
Recipe Video
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips For Tuna Burgers
- Drain canned tuna very thoroughly.
- Chill patties before cooking to prevent breaking.
- Avoid overmixing the mixture.
- Use medium heat instead of very high heat to prevent burning before the interior sets.
- Flip carefully only once when possible.
- Wet hands lightly when shaping patties to prevent sticking.
- Add mayonnaise for juicier tuna burgers.
- Fresh tuna burgers should not be overcooked.
Why Do Tuna Burgers Need Binders
Unlike beef burgers, tuna contains little fat or collagen, so eggs and breadcrumbs provide structure.
Cooking On Medium Heat Work Best
Gentler heat allows the patties to firm internally before the exterior becomes too dark.
Chilling is Crucial for Texture
Cold patties hold together more effectively during flipping.
Why Fresh Tuna Creates a Different Burger
Fresh tuna produces a steak like burger texture, while canned tuna creates a softer seafood cake style burger.
Tuna Burger Variations
- Canned tuna burger patties: The most affordable and convenient version using pantry tuna.
- Fresh tuna burgers:Â Uses chopped tuna steaks for a meatier texture.
- Spicy tuna burgers: Include jalapeños, chili flakes, or spicy mayo.
- Mediterranean tuna burgers: Features herbs, lemon, feta, and olive oil flavors.
- Air fryer tuna burgers: Crispy patties cooked with less oil.
- Grilled tuna burgers: Fresh tuna patties cooked outdoors on a BBQ for smoky flavor.
- Low carb tuna burger patties: Uses almond flour or reduced breadcrumbs.
- Japanese inspired tuna burgers:Â Includes soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
Serving and Pairings
- Sides: Sweet potato fries, Coleslaw, Zucchini Fries, Air Fryer Frozen French Fries, Snap Pea Salad
- Sauces: Spicy Mayo, Tartar Sauce Recipe, Harissa Aioli, Garlic Sauce
- Toppings: Lettuce, Tomato, Red onion, Avocado, Pickled onions, Cucumber
- Best Buns: Brioche buns, Potato buns, Whole wheat buns, Pretzel bun
Why Tuna Patties Fall Apart
Tuna lacks the connective tissue and fat found in beef, so binders like eggs and breadcrumbs are essential.
Moisture Balance is Crucial
Too much moisture creates mushy burgers, while too little makes them dry and crumbly.
Why Chilling Helps
Refrigerating the patties before cooking firms the mixture and improves structural stability.
Troubleshooting
- Tuna Burger Patties Fall Apart: The mixture likely needs more binder or additional chilling time before cooking.
- What if Burgers Are Mushy: The tuna was not drained thoroughly enough or too many wet ingredients were added.
- Tuna Burgers Are Dry: Too many breadcrumbs or overcooking can dry out the patties.
- Patties Stick to the Pan: The pan was not preheated properly or there was lack of oil.
- Burgers Burn Outside Before Heating Through: The heat was too high in the skillet.
- Tuna Flavor Feels Too Strong: Add more lemon juice, herbs, or creamy sauce to balance the flavor.
- Fresh Tuna Burgers Feel Tough: In this case the fresh tuna was overcooked.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Cooked tuna burger patties keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Uncooked patties freeze especially well when separated with parchment paper.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet, oven, or air fryer to maintain crisp texture.
- Meal Prep Tip: Prepare the tuna patties ahead and cook fresh when ready to serve.
Can I make tuna burgers with canned tuna?
Yes. Canned tuna is one of the most popular and affordable options for tuna burger patties.
What goes well on a tuna burger?
Lettuce, tomato, avocado, pickled onions, spicy mayo, lemon aioli, and fresh herbs pair especially well.
Are tuna burgers healthy?
Yes. Tuna burgers are typically high in protein and lower in saturated fat than beef burgers. You can make them gluten-free by using almond flour.
Can I grill tuna burgers?
Fresh tuna burgers grill especially well because they have a firmer texture. Follow our Grilled Trout : How to Grill Fish without it sticking guide.
How long do tuna burgers take to cook?
Most tuna burgers cook quickly and only need a few minutes per side depending on thickness.
What is the best tuna for tuna burgers?
Solid albacore canned tuna works well for canned versions, while ahi or yellowfin tuna are excellent for fresh tuna burgers.
Can I air fry tuna burger patties?
Yes. Air frying creates crisp patties with less oil.
Why are my tuna patties dry?
Overcooking or too many dry ingredients can remove moisture from the mixture.
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