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Cottage Cheese Tuna Cakes Recipe

4.6 from 488 reviews

These Cottage Cheese Tuna Cakes are a quick and tasty way to transform canned tuna into a delicious meal. Packed with protein from tuna and cottage cheese, they are light, fluffy, and have a crispy golden crust from panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, served warm with your favorite sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Ingredients

Scale

Main 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 until the mixture is chunky and creamy.
  2. Add egg, green onions, parsley, and seasonings: Crack the egg into the bowl, then stir in chopped green onions, chopped parsley (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well incorporated.
  3. Stir in panko breadcrumbs: Add the panko breadcrumbs and mix until the mixture becomes thick and sticky, holding together well for forming patties.
  4. Form the patties: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, each about 2½ inches wide, making sure they are uniform for even cooking.
  5. Cook the cakes: Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown, crispy crust and are firm to the touch.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Serve the tuna cakes warm with your favorite dipping sauce such as lemon-dill yogurt or sriracha mayo, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for added brightness.

Notes

  • Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta if preferred for a different texture.
  • Swap panko breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb variation.
  • Add finely shredded carrots, chopped spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrients.
  • Use dill or chives instead of parsley to vary the herb profile.
  • Make ahead by mixing and shaping patties, storing uncooked in the fridge up to 1 day; cook straight from fridge adding an extra minute per side if needed.
  • Store cooked cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or oven to regain crispiness.
  • Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag; reheat frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.

Keywords: tuna cakes, cottage cheese tuna cakes, healthy tuna recipe, quick tuna patties, protein-packed seafood cakes, easy skillet tuna cakes