Cottage Cheese Tuna Cakes Recipe

Introduction

Cottage Cheese Tuna Cakes are a quick and delicious way to enjoy tuna with a creamy, tender texture. These easy-to-make patties combine simple ingredients for a flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained well
• ½ cup small-curd cottage cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna and cottage cheese. Use a fork to break up the tuna and mix it evenly with the cottage cheese.
2. Step 2: Crack in the egg, then stir in chopped green onions, parsley if using, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Step 3: Add the panko breadcrumbs and mix until the mixture is thick and sticks together.
4. Step 4: Use your hands to form 6 equal-sized patties, about 2½ inches wide.
5. Step 5: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and firm.
6. Step 6: Serve warm with your favorite sauce, such as lemon-dill yogurt or sriracha mayo, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
• Add a little grated lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
• Mix in finely diced bell peppers or celery for extra crunch.
• Use fresh herbs like dill or chives in place of parsley for a different taste.

Storage

Store leftover tuna cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use canned salmon or crab instead of tuna?

Yes, canned salmon or crab meat can be used as a substitute. Adjust seasoning as needed to complement the different flavors.

Can I bake the tuna cakes instead of frying?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Cottage Cheese Tuna Cakes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 68 reviews

These Cottage Cheese Tuna Cakes are a light and delicious meal combining protein-packed tuna and creamy cottage cheese, flavored with green onions, parsley, and spices, then pan-fried to golden perfection. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner served with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 6 patties 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained well
• ½ cup small-curd cottage cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

Instructions

1. Mix the tuna and cottage cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna and cottage cheese. Use a fork to break up the tuna and mix it evenly with the cottage cheese to create a chunky yet creamy base.
2. Add egg, green onions, parsley, and seasonings: Crack the egg into the mixture, then stir in the finely chopped green onions, chopped parsley if using, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Stir in panko breadcrumbs: Add the panko breadcrumbs to the mixture and fold thoroughly until the mixture thickens and sticks together, forming a cohesive batter for shaping.
4. Form the patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, approximately 2½ inches wide each, ensuring they hold together well.
5. Cook the cakes: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until they develop a golden brown crust and become firm to the touch.
6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the tuna cakes warm, accompanied by your favorite sauce such as lemon-dill yogurt or sriracha mayo, and garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon for added brightness.

Notes

• Ensure the tuna is well drained to prevent soggy patties.
• If the mixture feels too wet, add a little extra panko breadcrumbs to help bind the cakes.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• These cakes can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a lighter cooking method.
• Try serving with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Keywords: tuna cakes, cottage cheese, pan-fried tuna patties, healthy tuna recipe, quick tuna cakes, easy seafood cakes