Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown patty that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes paired perfectly with savory tuna. These Sweet Potato & Tuna Patties are a wholesome and flavorful alternative to traditional patties, packed with nutritious ingredients and perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea, a meal-prep option, or a satisfying snack, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato & Tuna Patties
- Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with sweet potatoes, tuna, and fresh veggies, these patties are a powerhouse of vitamins, protein, and fiber.
- Simple and Quick: With basic ingredients and easy steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, snacks, or even meal prepping for the week.
- Kid-Friendly: These patties are a delicious way to sneak in veggies for picky eaters.
- Gluten-Free Option: Naturally gluten-free with minimal substitutions required.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato & Tuna Patties
| Category | Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Sweet potatoes | 2 medium (approx. 600g) | Peeled and boiled until soft |
| Tuna (canned) | 2 cans (280g total) | Drained and flaked | |
| Zucchini, grated | 1 small | Excess moisture squeezed out | |
| Veggies | Red bell pepper, chopped | ½ | Adds sweetness and crunch |
| Red onion, finely chopped | ½ | For mild aromatic flavor | |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons | Adds freshness and color | |
| Seasoning & Binding | Eggs, large | 3 | Helps bind the patties |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Enhances overall flavor | |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | For a subtle kick | |
| For Frying | Spray oil | As needed | For lightly greasing the pan |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into chunks.
- Boil them in a large pot of water for 10–15 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain the sweet potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth and allow to cool slightly.
2. Combine the Ingredients
- Add the chopped red bell pepper, red onion, grated zucchini, parsley, and drained tuna to the mashed sweet potatoes.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Season and Bind
- Crack the eggs into the mixture and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
- Stir thoroughly until the mixture is cohesive and holds its shape when pressed.
- If the mixture feels too wet, refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm it up.
4. Shape the Patties
- Scoop out about 2–3 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a patty, roughly the size of your palm.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture to make about 10–12 patties.
5. Cook the Patties
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly spray it with oil.
- Place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between them for easy flipping.
- Cook each patty for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Work in batches if necessary, spraying the pan with oil as needed between batches.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as Greek yogurt, aioli, or a tangy lemon tahini dressing.
- Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato & Tuna Patties
1. Use Cooled Sweet Potatoes
- Let the mashed sweet potatoes cool slightly before mixing to prevent the patties from falling apart.
2. Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini
- Squeeze grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to avoid making the mixture too wet.
3. Preheat the Skillet
- Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding the patties to achieve a crisp exterior.
4. Customize the Seasonings
- Add paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
5. Bake for a Healthier Option
- If you prefer to avoid frying, bake the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Customize Your Patties
- Cheese Lover’s Patties: Add ½ cup grated cheddar or feta cheese to the mixture.
- Vegan-Friendly: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seed gel (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg).
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Snack: Enjoy on their own with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- For Dinner: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.
- In a Sandwich: Layer between buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a healthy burger alternative.
- For Meal Prep: Pack patties in airtight containers with a side of greens for a grab-and-go lunch option.
Nutritional Information (Per Patty)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~100 |
| Protein | ~8 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~12 g |
| Fat | ~2 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
FAQs About Sweet Potato & Tuna Patties
1. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Place cooked patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain crispiness.
3. Can I freeze these patties?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What can I use instead of tuna?
You can substitute canned salmon, cooked shredded chicken, or mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
5. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?
Yes, but ensure they are well-drained and mashed to the correct consistency.
6. Are these patties gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.
Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
These Sweet Potato & Tuna Patties are the perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and versatility. Whether you’re catering to kids, meal prepping for the week, or seeking a quick and healthy snack, this recipe delivers. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients and start cooking—you’re in for a delicious treat!