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Tuna burgers are like a tasty remix of regular beef burgers, bringing a lighter and more flavorful option to the table that seafood fans canโ€™t resist. With zingy lemon, fragrant herbs, and the deliciousness of tuna, these burgers are a total mouthwatering delight that will satisfy even the biggest burger cravings.

To switch up your summer barbecues, here are a few more great burger recipes to add to the lineup: smash burgers, salmon burgers, and black bean burgers!

Hero image of a tuna burger topped with tomato and greens.

Tuna Burger Recipe

Tuna burgers are the bomb when it comes to summer barbecues! Forget about the same old beef pattiesโ€”these babies are a fresh and tasty alternative. Picture this: juicy, flaky canned tuna combined with zesty lemon zest, tangy mayo, and a bunch of other mouthwatering ingredients. Weโ€™re talking breadcrumbs for a bit of crunch, chopped dill and green onions for a burst of freshness, and a hint of lemon juice to really make those flavors pop. These burgers are so darn delicious, you wonโ€™t even believe theyโ€™re light!

Now, letโ€™s talk about why these bad boys are perfect for summer cookouts. First off, tuna is a lean protein thatโ€™s not only super healthy but also packed with omega-3s. So, you can chow down guilt-free while still getting your protein fix. And letโ€™s not forget about the refreshing factor. With that zingy lemon and dill combo, these burgers will keep you feeling cool and satisfied on those scorching hot days. Plus, theyโ€™re totally customizable! Slap on some juicy tomato slices, peppery arugula, and tangy red onions, and youโ€™ve got a personalized masterpiece. Trust me, once you sink your teeth into these tuna burgers, youโ€™ll never want to go back to beef. Summer barbecue game changer, right here!

Ingredients Needed

Get ready to rock your taste buds with these epic tuna burgers! Theyโ€™re the perfect choice for any backyard BBQ, bursting with flavors thatโ€™ll make your mouth water. So, letโ€™s break down all the ingredients youโ€™ll need for them. (Exact measurements are in the recipe card below.)

  • Canned Tuna: These little cans bring the flaky texture and tasty seafood flavor to the party. Mix it up with different types like chunk light or solid white.
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy and tangy, mayo keeps things moist and holds everything together. Want a swap? Greek yogurt or sour cream will also do the trick.
  • Bread Crumbs: These make the burgers firm and add a satisfying crunch.
  • Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemons bring that zingy citrus kick. Zest for fragrant oils, juice for tanginess. Bottled lemon juice works too, but fresh is best.
  • Fresh Dill and Green Onions (or Shallots): Dill brings a cool freshness, while green onions or shallots pack a savory punch.
  • Egg: This binds everything together and keeps the burgers in shape. It also adds moisture and texture.
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that boost flavor. Adjust to taste.
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For cooking the burgers and adding a tasty richness. Swap with vegetable oil or any high-smoke-point cooking oil.
  • Hamburger Buns: Soft and perfect for holding your delicious creations. Try different types like whole wheat or brioche!
  • Toppings of Choice: I used tomato slices, peppery arugula, crunchy red onion, and a dollop of mayo for my tuna burgers. Get creative and use your favorites here!

How to Make Tuna Burgers

Itโ€™s so easy and only takes 15 minutes from start to finish. This simple tuna burger recipe is the perfect summer recipe for seafood lovers!

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the drained tuna, mayonnaise, bread crumbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, green onion, chopped dill, egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Shape: Stir to combine then form 3 tuna patties.
  3. Cook: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Then add the patties and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side.
  4. Serve: Serve in a bun with toppings of choice!
4-photo collage of patties being shaped and cooked.

Cooking Tips

If you want to become a tuna burger pro, Iโ€™ve got you covered with these super easy tips. Theyโ€™ll have you whipping up mouthwatering burgers thatโ€™ll make everyone go crazy. So, letโ€™s dive right in and get grilling!

  • Go For the Good Stuff: Get yourself some quality canned tuna for a flavor-packed burger. Look for the solid or chunky kindโ€”itโ€™ll give your burgers a killer texture.
  • Drain Your Tuna: Make sure to drain the canned tuna thoroughly to remove excess liquid. Excess moisture can make the burgers too wet and difficult to shape.
  • Get Creative With Seasoning: While this tuna burger recipe provides a basic flavor profile, donโ€™t be afraid to experiment with additional seasonings or spices. You can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of paprika, or even some minced garlic to elevate the taste.
  • Use a Non-Stick Skillet: To prevent the tuna burgers from sticking, use a non-stick skillet or grill pan. If using a regular skillet, make sure to brush it with a little oil before cooking.
Fixing a tuna burger.

How Long Do Tuna Patties Last?

Leftover tuna patties will usually stay good in the fridge for around 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can also be stored in the freezer in a sealed bag for about 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before you use them.

To Reheat: Warm over the stove or in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

A complete tuna burger.

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Tuna Burger

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Tuna burgers are like a tasty remix of regular beef burgers, bringing a lighter and more flavorful option to the table that seafood fans can't resist. With zingy lemon, fragrant herbs, and the deliciousness of tuna, these burgers are a total mouthwatering delight that will satisfy even the biggest burger cravings.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 3

Ingredientsย 

  • 12 ounces canned tuna, drained (2 cans)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions, or shallots
  • 1 egg
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 hamburger buns
  • Toppings of choice: tomato, arugula, red onion, mayonniase

Instructionsย 

  • In a large bowl, add the drained tuna, mayonnaise, bread crumbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, green onion, chopped dill, egg, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir to combine and form 3 patties.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side.
  • Serve in a bun with toppings of choice!

Nutrition

Serving: 1burgerCalories: 438kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 29gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 99mgSodium: 629mgPotassium: 310mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 181IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 116mgIron: 4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Dinner, lunch
Cuisine: American
Tried this recipe?Mention @alyssa_therecipecritic or tag #therecipecritic!

About Alyssa Rivers

Alyssa Rivers is the author of 'The Tried and True Cookbook', a professional food photographer, experienced recipe-developer and American Culinary Federation certified. Having a passion for cooking, her tried and true recipes have been featured on Good Morning America, Today Food, Buzzfeed and more.

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