Tired of the same old tuna salad or oatmeal breakfast? This inventive recipe transforms pantry staples like canned tuna and oatmeal into delicious, protein-packed patties with a gourmet twist. These Savory Tuna Oatmeal Patties are flavored with Provençal herbs, paprika, and green onions, bound together with eggs and milk, and finished with a melty center of mozzarella cheese. Lightly pan-fried in avocado oil and optionally sprinkled with sesame seeds, they’re the perfect fusion of comfort and nutrition—whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a quick lunch.
This dish offers the heartiness of oatmeal, the umami of tuna, and the creamy satisfaction of cheese, all in a compact, golden-brown patty. It’s a budget-friendly, high-protein option ideal for busy families, athletes, or anyone wanting a wholesome yet exciting alternative to traditional fish cakes or fritters.
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Resting Time (for oats to soak): 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
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Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Ingredients
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1 cup of oatmeal (quick oats or old-fashioned oats)
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2 eggs
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1 glass of milk (about 240 ml or 1 cup)
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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1 teaspoon Provençal herbs (or dried herb blend such as thyme, rosemary, oregano)
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½ teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
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2–3 stalks of green onion, chopped
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1 can of canned tuna (in water or oil, drained)
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100g mozzarella cheese, diced or shredded
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1–2 tablespoons avocado oil (for frying)
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Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Soak the Oats
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the oatmeal with the milk. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes so the oats absorb the liquid and soften. -
Prepare the Mixture
After the oats have soaked, add in the eggs, salt, Provençal herbs, and paprika. Mix thoroughly to form a cohesive batter. -
Add Tuna and Veggies
Drain the canned tuna and break it up into small pieces using a fork. Add it to the oat mixture along with the chopped green onions. Mix well until evenly distributed. -
Incorporate the Cheese
Fold in the diced or shredded mozzarella. The cheese will help bind the patties while providing a gooey center when cooked. -
Form Patties
Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into palm-sized patties. If the mixture feels too loose, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of flour to help it hold together. -
Heat the Oil
Heat avocado oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the patties into the pan, leaving space between them for easy flipping. -
Cook Until Golden
Fry each side for about 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and the mozzarella begins to melt. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your pan. -
Optional Garnish
Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the patties during the last minute of cooking for a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. -
Serve Warm
Remove from the pan and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with a dipping sauce, salad, or steamed vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per 2 Patties, approx.)
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Calories: 280 kcal
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Protein: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 18g
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Fat: 14g
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Fiber: 2.5g
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Sodium: 450mg
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Calcium: 150mg
Note: Values may vary depending on brand of tuna, type of milk, and size of patties.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Tuna patties are a timeless classic found in global cuisines, often associated with frugality and simplicity. From American tuna cakes to Japanese-style croquettes, they have been a go-to meal for decades due to the accessibility of canned tuna. This version introduces oatmeal—a Scandinavian and fitness-community staple—as a binder, replacing breadcrumbs or flour for added nutrition.
With health-conscious eaters and gluten-free cooks seeking grain alternatives, oat-based savory dishes have gained traction. Combined with the popularity of Mediterranean herbs and the universal appeal of melty cheese, this fusion recipe has quickly become a modern favorite.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Budget-Friendly: Made with inexpensive pantry ingredients.
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High-Protein: Tuna, eggs, and cheese provide plenty of muscle-building power.
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Quick and Easy: From pantry to plate in under 45 minutes.
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Kid-Friendly: Mild flavor and cheesy texture make it appealing to picky eaters.
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Customizable: Easily adapted with different vegetables, cheeses, or spices.
Health Benefits
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Oatmeal: Rich in beta-glucan fiber for heart health and digestion.
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Tuna: A lean source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
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Eggs: Provide essential amino acids, choline, and healthy fats.
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Green Onion: Adds antioxidants and vitamin K with minimal calories.
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Avocado Oil: High smoke point and healthy monounsaturated fats.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a lemon-dill yogurt sauce or spicy sriracha mayo.
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Pair with a side salad of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette.
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Use in wraps or sandwiches with lettuce and tomato.
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Top with a poached egg for a high-protein brunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping the oat soak: Dry oats will not bind properly without absorbing liquid.
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Overmixing: This can make the patties tough. Gently fold the ingredients.
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Using low-moisture tuna: Tuna in oil works best; if using tuna in water, ensure it’s drained thoroughly.
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Crowding the pan: This causes steaming rather than frying—cook in batches.
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Flipping too early: Let the crust form before turning to avoid breakage.
Pairing Recommendations
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Drinks: Try with citrus-infused sparkling water, iced green tea, or white wine like Pinot Grigio.
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Side Dishes: Roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed spinach, or couscous work well.
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Sauces: Creamy dill, tzatziki, or a yogurt-honey mustard dip.
Cooking Tips
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Make it ahead: Mix the batter and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
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Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your canned goods.
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Cheese options: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, gouda, or feta for different flavors.
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Add crunch: Incorporate shredded carrots or chopped red bell peppers.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Chickpea Tuna Cakes: Swap oats for chickpeas and season with cumin.
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Zucchini Oat Fritters: Add grated zucchini and feta cheese to your base.
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Salmon and Oat Patties: Use cooked salmon in place of tuna.
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Baked Veggie Oat Bites: Use the same base but add broccoli and bake instead of fry.
Variations to Try
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Spicy: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
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Herby: Swap Provençal herbs for fresh dill or parsley.
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Cheesy: Mix in parmesan or pepper jack for a bolder taste.
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Mini Patties: Make bite-sized versions for party appetizers.
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Vegan: Use mashed chickpeas, flax eggs, and plant milk instead of tuna and eggs.
Ingredient Spotlight
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Oatmeal: A versatile grain that acts as both binder and fiber boost.
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Tuna: A convenient and shelf-stable source of lean protein.
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Green Onion: Mild and aromatic, green onions enhance flavor without overpowering.
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Mozzarella: Melts beautifully and helps bind patties with creamy richness.
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Provençal Herbs: A fragrant blend that brings a Mediterranean flair.
Conclusion
These Savory Tuna Oatmeal Patties strike the perfect balance between health and indulgence. With just a few accessible ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s packed with protein, rich in flavor, and wonderfully versatile. Whether you’re prepping for the week, feeding a family, or looking for a smart post-workout meal, these patties deliver on all fronts. Give them a try and watch them disappear from your table!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes! Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Can I freeze the patties?
Absolutely. Cooked patties freeze well. Let them cool completely, then freeze in layers separated by parchment paper.
3. What kind of tuna works best?
Tuna in oil tends to offer more flavor and moisture, but drained tuna in water also works.
4. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
No, steel-cut oats won’t soften properly in this recipe. Stick with quick or old-fashioned oats.
5. How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture rests so the oats absorb the liquid, and avoid flipping too early during cooking.
6. What can I substitute for mozzarella?
Try cheddar, gouda, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
7. Are these patties good for kids?
Yes! They’re mild in flavor and full of hidden nutrition—great for lunchboxes.
8. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant milk and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
9. Do I need to refrigerate the mixture before cooking?
Not required, but chilling for 15–20 minutes can make shaping easier.
10. What dipping sauces go well with these patties?
Tartar sauce, herbed yogurt, garlic aioli, or even ketchup all work beautifully.