Transform humble canned tuna into a culinary delight with these incredibly flavorful and healthy Tuna Burgers! This recipe is a game-changer, designed to be so quick and easy that even the most skeptical eaters (yes, even tuna haters!) will find themselves asking for seconds. My own teenage son, who typically avoids canned tuna, absolutely adores these patties, proving just how delicious and appealing they are. They are perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, offering a nutritious and satisfying alternative to traditional beef or chicken burgers.

Beyond their incredible taste, these healthy tuna patties are wonderfully versatile. You can prepare them effortlessly in an air fryer for a crispy finish with minimal oil, or cook them on the stovetop for classic pan-fried perfection (we’ve included detailed instructions for both methods!). What’s more, this recipe is incredibly Weight Watchers friendly, making it an excellent choice for those mindful of their diet. This tuna burger recipe draws inspiration from our popular Open Faced Tuna Melts (no mayo) and pairs beautifully with our Healthy Homemade Tartar Sauce and a refreshing Skinny Coleslaw for a complete and wholesome meal.

If you’re a fan of convenient and delicious canned fish recipes, be sure to also explore our Pan-fried Salmon Patties – another family favorite that’s equally simple and satisfying!

Fresh & Flavorful Ingredient Notes

Crafting the perfect tuna burger begins with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is key:

• Canned Tuna: Opt for tuna packed in water rather than oil for a lighter, healthier patty. Flaked or chunk light tuna works best for texture. Ensure it’s thoroughly drained to prevent soggy burgers.
• Bread Crumbs: These act as a crucial binder, helping the patties hold their shape and adding a delightful texture. Fine bread crumbs are recommended for a smoother patty.
• Eggs: Eggs are another essential binder, holding all the ingredients together as the patties cook.
• Mayonnaise: A touch of mayonnaise adds moisture and richness to the patties. We prefer low-fat mayonnaise to keep the recipe lighter.
• Green Onions: Finely chopped green onions provide a mild, fresh onion flavor without overpowering the tuna.
• Celery: Diced celery adds a subtle crunch and a hint of freshness, breaking up the soft texture of the tuna.
• Chili Sauce: This is our secret ingredient! Heinz chili sauce, or a similar variety, lends a unique, zippy, and slightly sweet-tangy flavor that perfectly complements the tuna and elevates the burger’s profile.
• Fresh Cilantro: For a vibrant burst of fresh, earthy flavor, chopped fresh cilantro is indispensable. It adds an aromatic quality that really makes these burgers sing.
• Olive Oil: Used sparingly for stovetop cooking or as a spray for air frying to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
• Buns: While any hamburger bun works, we recommend thin buns (like President’s Choice Thins) to keep the overall meal lighter and allow the tuna patty to be the star.

A complete list of ingredients and precise quantities can be found in the recipe card below.

Unlock Your Creativity: Substitutions & Variations

One of the best aspects of these tuna burgers is how easily they can be customized to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment!

• Mayonnaise: If low-fat mayonnaise isn’t your preference, feel free to use your favorite brand or type, whether it’s full-fat, avocado oil-based, or even a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based twist (though you’d need to adjust other ingredients for a fully vegan patty). Hellman’s low-fat is a great starting point for calorie consciousness.
• Lettuce: The type of lettuce you choose can significantly impact the texture and freshness of your burger. Iceberg lettuce offers a crisp, watery crunch; romaine provides a slightly firmer texture and mild flavor; while spinach adds a boost of nutrients and a softer bite. Any leafy green you enjoy will work well.
• Cilantro: If cilantro isn’t your herb of choice, or you simply want to try something different, fresh parsley (flat-leaf or curly), fresh dill, or even chives can be excellent alternatives, each offering a distinct aromatic profile.
• Buns: The bun is your canvas! Classic hamburger buns (white or whole wheat) are always an option. For a lighter meal, consider lettuce wraps. Alternatively, serve the patties on toasted sourdough, ciabatta, or even as an open-faced sandwich on your favorite bread. For those avoiding gluten, gluten-free buns and gluten-free bread crumbs are excellent choices.
• Onion: While green onions provide a delicate flavor, you can swap them for finely minced red onion for a sharper, slightly sweeter bite, or white onion for a more pungent, classic onion flavor.
• Gluten-Free: To make this recipe completely gluten-free, simply ensure you use certified gluten-free bread crumbs and gluten-free buns.
• Chili Sauce: If you don’t have Heinz chili sauce or are looking for an alternative, a blend of ketchup, a dash of hot sauce (like Sriracha), a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of brown sugar can mimic a similar sweet and tangy profile. You can click HERE for more detailed substitutes and recipes.
• Spice It Up: For those who love a kick, incorporate a pinch or two of red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha sauce, or finely diced jalapeños directly into the tuna patty mixture.
• Black Pepper: A simple addition, black pepper is always an optional way to enhance the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Irresistible Tuna Burgers

Making these tuna burgers is surprisingly straightforward, whether you prefer the convenience of an air fryer or the classic sizzle of a stovetop. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, golden-brown patties every time.

Preparing the Tuna Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, flake the well-drained canned tuna. Add the lightly beaten eggs, fine bread crumbs, chopped celery, low-fat mayonnaise, finely chopped green onions, chili sauce, and fresh cilantro.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Using your hands or a spoon, mix all the ingredients together until they are fully incorporated. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape.
3. Form Patties: Divide the tuna mixture into 6 equal portions and shape them into patties, about 3-4 inches in diameter and ¾-inch thick. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round – homemade charm is part of their appeal! Ensure they are compressed tightly to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

Air Fryer Method: For Crispy Perfection

4. Prepare Air Fryer: Lightly spray your air fryer basket or drawer with oil spray. This helps prevent sticking and promotes a golden-brown crust.
5. Arrange Patties & Cook First Side: Carefully place the raw tuna patties in the air fryer, ensuring not to overcrowd the basket. Spray the tops of the burgers with a few pumps of oil. Set your air fryer to the air fry setting at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). If using a Dual Zone Ninja Foodi air fryer, utilize the match cook function for simultaneous cooking. Air fry for 7 minutes.
6. Flip & Cook Second Side: After 7 minutes, gently flip the patties using a spatula. Spray the other side with a few more pumps of oil. Continue to air fry for an additional 6 minutes, or until the patties are beautifully golden brown and heated through. Cooking times may vary slightly (around 5-7 minutes per side) depending on your specific air fryer model, so keep an eye on them.

Stovetop Method: For a Classic Pan-Fried Finish

If you prefer the stovetop, follow the initial three steps above for preparing the tuna mixture and forming the patties, then proceed with these instructions:

4. Heat Skillet: In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the pan to get adequately hot before adding the patties; this is crucial for a good sear and to prevent sticking.
5. Cook Patties: Carefully place the tuna patties into the heated skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through.
6. Flip with Care: Hint: Try not to get impatient and turn them too soon! Give them the full 5-6 minutes on the first side to develop a crust; this significantly reduces the likelihood of them falling apart. When ready to flip, use a large, wide, and thin spatula (affiliate link) and turn them carefully and confidently.

Once cooked, serve your tuna burgers on buns with your favorite toppings!

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Tuna Burgers

Tuna burgers are wonderfully versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some excellent recommendations to complete your meal:

• Healthy Homemade Tartar Sauce: A creamy, tangy tartar sauce is the classic accompaniment for any fish patty. Our healthy version complements the tuna perfectly without adding excessive calories.
• Strawberry Spinach Salad: For a light and refreshing contrast, a vibrant strawberry spinach salad with pecans offers a sweet, nutty, and slightly tart counterpoint to the savory burgers.
• Old-Fashioned Fruit Salad: A simple, classic fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing provides a sweet and juicy side that is both refreshing and easy to prepare.
• Air Fryer Carrot Fries: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional potato fries, crispy air fryer carrot fries with a spicy mayo dip offer a delicious and nutritious option.
• Skinny Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing bite and textural variety that complements the soft patty.
• Quick Cucumber Kimchi: For a unique and flavorful twist, serve your canned tuna burgers with a side of quick cucumber kimchi (pictured below). Its spicy and fermented notes add an exciting zing to the meal.

You can also consider classic sides like roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a simple garden salad for easy, healthy additions.

Serving Size & Adjustments

This particular tuna cakes recipe yields 6 delicious tuna patties, making it ideal for a family meal or meal prepping throughout the week. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility: you can easily half, double, or even triple the recipe to suit your needs. When following a recipe card that allows for adjustments (like the one below), you can simply click on the serving number to automatically adjust all ingredient quantities. This ensures you always have the perfect amount of ingredients, whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd.

Weight Watchers Friendly: Smart Choices for Tuna Burgers

We’re thrilled to share that these Healthy Tuna Patties are incredibly Weight Watchers friendly! The patties themselves come in at just 3 WW points, making them a fantastic lean protein option. When served with our recommended thin buns, the total for a complete burger is approximately 7 points. However, you have the power to lower those WW points even further!

Consider these smart swaps:

• Bun Choice: Opt for lower-point buns or even go bun-less with a crisp lettuce wrap for zero points.
• Homemade Bread Crumbs: If you’re making your own bread crumbs (as detailed in our tip below), selecting a lower-point or whole-wheat bread can also contribute to a lower overall point count.
• Mayo Selection: Stick with low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise options.

*Please note that the mentioned WW points do not include additional toppings like our Healthy Homemade Tartar Sauce, so be sure to account for those separately if tracking meticulously.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Freshness

Proper storage is key to enjoying your delicious tuna burgers for as long as possible. Canned tuna recipes, while convenient, can develop a stronger “fishy” taste if not stored correctly or for too long.

• Refrigeration: For best results and to maintain freshness, store the cooked tuna patties and any wet toppings (such as tartar sauce, sliced tomatoes, or lettuce) separately from dry ingredients like buns. Place the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 2 days. Beyond this timeframe, the flavors can intensify, becoming less appealing.
• Freezing Cooked Patties: Yes, these tuna patties can be frozen! Once cooked and cooled completely, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 30 minutes to prevent them from sticking together. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • From Refrigerator: Reheat refrigerated patties in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy.
  • From Freezer: For frozen patties, you can reheat them directly in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, or bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

Chef’s Top Tip: Easily Make Your Own Bread Crumbs!

Ever find yourself mid-recipe, only to realize you’re out of bread crumbs? Don’t let it derail your cooking! Making your own fresh bread crumbs is incredibly easy, economical, and often results in a more flavorful and textural addition to your dishes. You’ll also have full control over the ingredients, especially useful for gluten-free diets.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Gather Your Bread: Any type of bread can be used – fresh or day-old. White bread, whole wheat, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread works perfectly. Stale bread actually crumbles better, but fresh bread works too.
2. Process in a Food Processor: Tear the bread into rough pieces and add them to your food processor. Pulse several times until the bread reaches a coarse or fine crumb-like consistency, depending on your preference. For a finer crumb, process a bit longer.

Once made, you can use them immediately. Any extras can be easily stored for future use!

3. Store for Later: Transfer any leftover bread crumbs into an airtight freezer bag or container. Label it with the date. Homemade bread crumbs can be stored in your freezer for up to 3 months, ready whenever your next recipe calls for them. This smart tip saves you money and ensures you always have a fresh batch on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tuna Burgers

• Open Face Tuna Melts (no mayo)
• Tuna Dip recipe (with canned tuna)
• Tuna Casserole with macaroni
• Tuna Stuffed Tomatoes

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