Delicious Sweet Potato Tuna Patties: Your New Go-To Gluten-Free Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with these Sweet Potato Tuna Patties! This incredible recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect blend of crispiness, rich flavor, and wholesome goodness. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to make and come together in just around 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re seeking a light and satisfying meal, a hearty appetizer, or a healthy snack, these gluten-free tuna cakes are wonderfully versatile and absolutely irresistible.

What makes this recipe truly special is its reliance on readily available pantry staples. We’re talking about humble canned tuna and nutrient-rich sweet potatoes, combined with a handful of other simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. This combination transforms everyday items into something extraordinary – tender on the inside, beautifully golden and crispy on the outside, and bursting with savory flavor. You’ll find yourself making these easy tuna patties again and again!

Beyond their delicious taste, these tuna patties are fantastic for meal prep. Their flavors only deepen with time, making them an excellent option for healthy lunches throughout the week. Just like our popular Salmon Patties with Coleslaw Meal-Prep Bowls, you can whip up a batch, portion them out, and enjoy satisfying meals with minimal effort during busy days.

Why You’ll Love These Sweet Potato Tuna Patties

These aren’t just any tuna patties; they’re a revelation! Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a family favorite:

• Effortlessly Delicious: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a gourmet-tasting dish on your table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Naturally Gluten-Free (or adaptable): Using gluten-free breadcrumbs ensures this recipe is accessible for those with dietary restrictions, without compromising on texture or taste.
• Crispy Outside, Tender Inside: The magic of sweet potatoes creates an interior that’s wonderfully soft and moist, contrasting beautifully with the golden-brown, crispy exterior achieved from pan-frying.
• Nutrient-Packed: Sweet potatoes add a wealth of vitamins, fiber, and natural sweetness, while tuna provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making these patties a truly wholesome choice.
• Incredibly Versatile: Serve them as a main course with a fresh salad, tuck them into buns for a unique “tuna burger,” enjoy them as a satisfying snack, or present them as elegant appetizers.
• Budget-Friendly: Made primarily from canned tuna and sweet potatoes, this recipe is economical without sacrificing flavor or nutritional value.

The Role of Sweet Potatoes: Beyond Just Flavor

Sweet potatoes are much more than just a delicious addition to classic tuna patties; they play a crucial structural and nutritional role. Unlike many fish cakes that can be prone to falling apart, the natural starch and moisture in mashed sweet potatoes act as an excellent binding agent. This ensures that your patties hold their shape beautifully during cooking, resulting in perfectly formed, sturdy cakes every time.

Beyond their binding capabilities, sweet potatoes infuse the patties with a subtle sweetness and earthy flavor that perfectly complements the savory notes of tuna and onion. They also contribute to the irresistible texture, helping to create that desired soft interior that contrasts so wonderfully with the crispy, golden-brown crust. Nutritionally, sweet potatoes are a powerhouse, rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, elevating these simple tuna patties into a genuinely healthy and satisfying meal option.

How to Make Delicious Sweet Potato Tuna Patties

Crafting these delectable tuna and sweet potato patties is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a truly memorable culinary experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A short list of simple ingredients is all it takes to create these flavorful patties. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• Sweet Potatoes: I recommend using 2 small sweet potatoes. They provide the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and binding power. Look for firm, unblemished potatoes.
• Tuna: Opt for good-quality canned tuna, packed in water or olive oil, for the best flavor and texture. Flaked light tuna or albacore will both work wonderfully. Remember to drain it well!
• Onions: A harmonious blend of white onions for a pungent base and green onions (scallions) for a fresh, mild bite and vibrant color.
• Breadcrumbs: Gluten-free breadcrumbs are used to keep this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If gluten is not an issue, regular breadcrumbs are perfectly fine. For a lower-carb alternative, almond flour can also be used, though it might change the texture slightly.
• Eggs: The essential binder that helps hold all the ingredients together, ensuring your patties don’t crumble during cooking.
• Seasonings: A simple yet effective blend of garlic powder, chili pepper for a hint of warmth, and of course, salt and pepper to taste, enhancing all the natural flavors.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the richness of the tuna and sweet potato. You’ll juice half a lemon for the mixture and slice the other half into wedges for serving.
• Mayonnaise: Provides moisture and a creamy richness that brings the mixture together. For an extra touch, try my easy homemade mayonnaise, or simply use your favorite brand.
• Cooking Spray/Oil: For pan-frying, olive oil cooking spray offers a light coating, but a drizzle of good quality olive oil or other vegetable oil works just as well for achieving that perfect golden crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

• Begin by peeling your sweet potatoes and cutting them into uniform 1-inch cubes or chunks. This ensures they cook evenly.
• Place the cubed sweet potatoes into a medium pan or stockpot. Cover them with water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and cook the sweet potato chunks for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
• Carefully drain the cooked sweet potatoes in a colander. For best results and to stop the cooking process, run them under cold water to cool them down completely. This prevents the mixture from becoming too mushy.
• Transfer the cooled, drained sweet potatoes to a large mixing bowl and mash them thoroughly with a fork or a potato masher until mostly smooth, with a few small lumps remaining for texture.

2. Combine the Flavors

• Once your mashed sweet potatoes have cooled to room temperature, it’s time to bring all the delicious components together.
• Add the well-drained and flaked tuna, finely chopped green onions, minced white onions, gluten-free breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, and mayonnaise to the bowl with the mashed sweet potatoes.
• Season the mixture generously with garlic powder, chili pepper, fresh lemon juice, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your personal preference.
• Using a sturdy spoon or your clean hands, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are uniformly combined. Ensure there are no dry pockets and everything is well incorporated. This mixture should be firm enough to shape.

3. Shape and Cook the Patties

• Take portions of the tuna mixture and, using your hands, gently shape them into evenly sized patties. Aim for about ½ to ¾-inch thick patties. You can form them into classic tuna cakes or larger tuna burger shapes.
• Heat a non-stick frying pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add a generous amount of cooking spray, vegetable oil, or olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
• Carefully place the shaped tuna patties into the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches if necessary to allow for even browning.
• Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown and crispy crust. The internal temperature should be heated through.

4. Garnish and Serve

• Once cooked, transfer the golden-brown tuna patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, then allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving.
• For an extra touch of freshness and visual appeal, garnish your delicious patties with finely chopped scallions or other fresh herbs like dill or parsley, if desired.
• Serve your crispy sweet potato tuna patties immediately with fresh lemon wedges for a squeeze of citrus, a dollop of yogurt or a flavorful dipping sauce, and enjoy every bite!

What to Serve with Your Sweet Potato Tuna Patties

These versatile tuna patties pair beautifully with a variety of sides, making them suitable for any occasion, from a casual lunch to a more elaborate dinner party.

• Flavorful Sauces: While incredibly tasty on their own, a delicious sauce can elevate these patties even further. Consider a simple lemon aioli, a creamy dill sauce, or this fantastic Whole30 creamy avocado sauce for a burst of fresh flavor. A spicy sriracha mayo or a tangy tartar sauce would also be excellent choices.
• Fresh Side Salads: For a light, refreshing, and yet cozy meal, serve your patties alongside a crisp green salad. Options like a roasted sweet potato kale salad (doubling up on the sweet potato goodness!), a peppery arugula salad with a light vinaigrette, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad would be perfect complements.
• Hearty Grains or “Rice”: For a warm and satisfying lunch or dinner, plate these healthy tuna patties on a bed of fluffy white rice, nutritious quinoa, or a lighter mushroom cauliflower rice skillet. This creates a complete and balanced meal.
• Appetizer Spreads: If you’re planning to serve these as an appetizer, they fit right in with other hearty finger foods. Consider pairing them with savory bacon-wrapped dates, elegant sausage-stuffed mushrooms, or delightful low-carb cauliflower bites for a truly impressive spread.

Recipe Variations to Inspire You

The beauty of these tuna and sweet potato patties lies in their adaptability. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Swap the Fish: Don’t limit yourself to tuna! This recipe works wonderfully with other canned fish like salmon (check out our homemade salmon recipes for inspiration!), mackerel, or even crab meat for a more luxurious touch. Freshly cooked leftover fish can also be flaked and used.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Elevate the flavor profile with fresh herbs. Finely chopped dill, fresh parsley, chives, or even cilantro would add a lovely bright and aromatic dimension to the patties. Stir them into the mixture along with the other ingredients.
• Spicy Tuna Patties: If you love a kick, introduce some heat! Add finely diced jalapeño or serrano peppers (remove seeds for less heat), a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• Explore Other Seasonings: Get creative with your spice cabinet! A bit of lemon zest will amplify the citrus notes, Old Bay seasoning can add a classic seafood flavor, or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can provide a sophisticated tangy depth. Smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin could also be interesting additions.
• Make it Dairy-Free: If you need to avoid dairy, simply use a dairy-free mayonnaise. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

These sweet potato tuna patties are excellent for making ahead, making your meal planning much easier. Here’s how to store and reheat them:

• To Store Cooked Patties: Once cooled, place the cooked tuna patties in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To Reheat: For best results, reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again, about 2-3 minutes per side. You can also warm them in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. Microwaving is an option, but they may lose some crispiness.
• To Freeze Cooked Patties: Arrange cooled, cooked patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flash freeze them for 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and store for up to 3 months.
• To Reheat from Frozen: You can reheat frozen patties directly in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and crispy. Flipping halfway through is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, absolutely! If using fresh tuna, ensure it is cooked and flaked thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients. Adjust seasoning as needed, as fresh tuna’s flavor might be milder than canned.

What if my patties are too soft to form?

If the mixture feels too wet or sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. The cold helps to firm up the ingredients, making them easier to handle. You can also add a tablespoon or two more of breadcrumbs (or almond flour) if needed.

Are these patties freezer-friendly?

Yes, they are! You can freeze both cooked and uncooked patties. For uncooked, flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Cooked patties can be frozen the same way. See the “Storage and Reheating” section for detailed instructions.

Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?

While pan-frying gives them the best crispy crust, you can certainly bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and heated through. For extra crispiness, finish them under the broiler for a minute or two.

How can I make these extra crispy?

Ensure your pan is hot enough before adding the patties, but not smoking. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this reduces the temperature and can steam the patties. Use enough oil to create a thin layer on the pan. For an even crispier exterior, you can do a double dredge: once in the mixture, then lightly coat in extra breadcrumbs before frying.

Pin Recipe
Print Recipe

Sweet Potato Tuna Patties Recipe

Rated 3.87 from 75 votes

Author:

Olivia Ribas

Yields:

8
patties

Prep Time:

15
minutes

Cook Time:

21
minutes

Total Time:

36
minutes

This Sweet Potato Tuna Patties Recipe is always a crowd-pleaser! Ready in just 30 minutes, they’re crispy, flavorful, and so delicious! This gluten-free recipe is perfect as a light meal or a hearty appetizer.

Ingredients

• 2 small sweet potatoes peeled and sliced into chunks
• 2 cans tuna drained and flaked
• ½ cup green onions finely chopped
• ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or regular, or almond flour
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup white onions finely minced
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Olive oil cooking spray or 1-2 tbsp olive oil for frying
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

• Cook Sweet Potatoes: In a medium pan or stockpot, bring water to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
• Mash Potatoes: Drain the sweet potatoes thoroughly and run them under cold running water to cool them down. Transfer them to a large mixing bowl and mash with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
• Combine Ingredients: Add the well-drained and flaked tuna, green onions, white onions, breadcrumbs (gluten-free or regular), eggs, mayonnaise, garlic powder, chili pepper, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a cohesive mixture.
• Shape Patties: Using your hands, scoop about ¼ cup of the mixture for each patty and gently shape into evenly sized tuna cakes, about ½ to ¾-inch thick.
• Heat Pan: Heat a non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil cooking spray or 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
• Cook Patties: Carefully place the shaped patties into the hot pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Cook in batches if necessary. Serve warm with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• For perfectly uniformed patties, use a large ice cream or cookie scoop to portion out the mixture before shaping.
• Ensure sweet potatoes are chopped uniformly for even cooking. Pre-cut sweet potatoes are a great time-saver.
• Finely mince green and white onions in a food processor for a smoother texture.
• To achieve a perfect sear, avoid overcrowding the pan and don’t flip the patties too soon.
• If the patty mixture is hard to form, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. Wetting your hands with cold water can also prevent sticking.
• To Store: Store cooked sweet potato tuna patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To Reheat: Reheat patties quickly in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and warmed through.
• To Freeze: Flash freeze cooled, cooked patties on a lined sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in an oven or air fryer.

Nutrition

Serving:
1
/8

,

Calories:
90
kcal

,

Carbohydrates:
9
g

,

Protein:
8.8
g

,

Fat:
2
g

,

Cholesterol:
39.2
mg

,

Sodium:
298.6
mg

,

Sugar:
1.5
g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

You can watch the Web Story of this recipe HERE for a quick visual guide!

If you’ve enjoyed this Sweet Potato Tuna Patties recipe, please consider sharing it with your friends and family – they’ll love it too! Want more delicious, healthy, and easy recipes delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe to our newsletter and make sure to follow Primavera Kitchen on Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook for all our latest recipe updates and culinary inspiration. As always, we truly appreciate you stopping by and cooking with us!