Panko Parmesan Tuna Cakes

I know…anything that sounds like tuna casserole will conjure up jokes from the last 50 years. So bring it on, I can take it, and I LOVE tuna casserole by the way!! But if you need something different, give these a shot. If you’re like me and always have plenty of cans of tuna in the pantry, this is going to be an easy-to-make and a protein-packed tasty entree. Aside from fresh parsley, you probably have everything on hand to whip these up in no time flat!

I worked this recipe up last year and have been tweaking it along the way. I finally think this combo of ingredients is a winner and so does Charlie (that’s always a good sign)! I had been using plain breadcrumbs, but last night, I didn’t have any, so I grabbed panko bread crumbs instead and I like the flavor even better! So panko it is.

This is a simple, weeknight, family-friendly entree. You don’t have to worry about thawing out something before you leave for work or picking up take out on the way home. Just grab your tuna cans from your cupboard and make something hot and delicious! Add a sauce or put these on buns for a great fish sandwich. Canned tuna-it’s not just for tuna fish salad or tuna casserole :))

Panko Parmesan Tuna Cakes

Ingredients

2 cans tuna, drained (I like solid white albacore)

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

2 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (flat leaf)

1/3 cup mayonnaise (I use Blue Plate)

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

Vegetable or canola oil for frying

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together tuna, breadcrumbs, and parmesan cheese.

Add in remaining ingredients and mix well. Taste and add more salt and pepper if desired.

Form into patties (I usually get 5 average sized patties from this recipe). Heat oil in a large skillet and

fry patties for a few minutes on each side until golden crispy brown, flipping only once. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Notes

Make sure your oil is nice and hot before placing patties in the skillet. Also, make sure you have enough oil in the pan to shallow fry, but not too much that it covers the patties. I've also used regular bread crumbs instead of panko.