Golden Pan-Seared Tuna Patties Drizzled with Creamy Spicy Mayo
Description
These golden pan-seared tuna patties are crisp on the outside, tender and flaky inside, and packed with savory flavor. Fresh or canned tuna is blended with herbs, breadcrumbs, and gentle seasoning, then seared until beautifully golden. A creamy spicy mayo drizzle adds heat, richness, and that irresistible finishing touch. Perfect as a light dinner, appetizer, or protein-packed lunch—great with salad, rice, or tucked into a bun.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
Makes 6 tuna patties
Serves 2–3 people
Ingredients
For the Tuna Patties
2 cans tuna (160 g each), drained very well (or 300 g fresh tuna, finely chopped)
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
2 tbsp onion or shallot, finely minced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt & black pepper, to taste
½ tsp paprika or chili powder (optional)
2–3 tbsp olive oil, for frying
For the Creamy Spicy Mayo
½ cup mayonnaise
1–2 tbsp sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tsp lemon or lime juice
½ tsp honey or sugar (optional, for balance)
Instructions
1. Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and honey.
Taste and adjust heat or acidity. Chill until ready to serve.
2. Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a large bowl, combine tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, herbs, onion, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork.
3. Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape into round patties about 1.5 cm thick.
If the mixture feels soft, refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up.
4. Pan-Sear
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and heated through.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Serve
Arrange patties on a platter, drizzle generously with creamy spicy mayo, and garnish with herbs or lemon wedges.
Serving Ideas
With a fresh green salad
Over steamed rice or quinoa
In a burger bun with lettuce and tomato
As an appetizer with extra spicy mayo for dipping
Recipe Q & A
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: How do I keep tuna patties from falling apart?
Make sure tuna is very well drained and don’t skip the egg and breadcrumbs—they’re the binders.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. Shape patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q: Are these spicy?
Mild on their own—the heat comes from the spicy mayo, which you can fully control.
Q: Can I freeze tuna patties?
Yes. Freeze uncooked patties for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and cook as usual.