Can I use another type of fish instead of tuna?

Absolutely. Canned salmon works beautifully in place of tuna in this recipe. Just be sure to remove any bones and skin, and keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit richer and more robust.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes! The base recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming you use gluten-free Dijon mustard. If you need to firm up your patties, add gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! The air fryer is a great option for these patties. Arrange them in a single layer and air fry at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and heated through.

What can I use instead of fresh dill?

If you can’t find fresh dill, try using about half as much dried dill. Other great options are chopped fresh parsley or chives—each will give a slightly different herbal note to your patties.

Fresh Dill Tuna Patties Recipe

Name: Fresh Dill Tuna Patties Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 x 5oz (142 g) cans tuna in spring water, drained; 2 large eggs, room temperature, beaten; Sea salt and ground pepper, to taste; 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard; 2 tsps fresh lemon zest; 2 Tbsps chopped fresh dill; 2/3 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 Tbsp olive oil or avocado oil, divided (for cooking the patties); 1-1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt (or unsweetened coconut yogurt for dairy-free option); 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 Tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice (or more to taste); 6 sprigs fresh dill, chopped; Tiny pinch each: sea salt & white pepper; Optional: dash of favorite hot sauce

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that blends vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and pure weeknight convenience, these Fresh Dill Tuna Patties belong on your table! Each bite bursts with bright lemon zest, herby dill, creamy mozzarella, and savory tuna—topped with a zippy yogurt-mustard sauce that brings everything together. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs, you’ll have a dish that’s impressively tasty yet wonderfully easy to prep, making this recipe a reliable choice for busy evenings or quick lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Fast: You can whip up these tuna patties in less than 30 minutes, from chopping the dill to pulling golden patties from the oven.
Big Flavor, Simple Ingredients: Tuna and dill are a match made in heaven, especially when brightened with lemon zest and a creamy cheese surprise.
Incredibly Versatile: Serve them straight from the oven, chilled from the fridge, or tucked into a sandwich—the choice is yours!
Protein Packed: Thanks to tuna, eggs, and Greek yogurt, you’ll be wowed at just how filling (and energizing) these patties are.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep in advance and cook when ready—total peace of mind for anyone juggling a busy schedule.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Tuna (Canned in Water): The heart of these patties—choose quality tuna for the best texture and flavor.
Eggs: Help bind everything together, so your patties hold their shape.
Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and depth to both the patties and the sauce, highlighting the tuna’s savoriness.
Fresh Lemon Zest: Brightens up the flavors, making each bite taste fresh.
Fresh Dill: Infuses each patty with a fragrant, summery kick. Truly makes the dish!
Mozzarella (Shredded): Gently melts into the patties for irresistible richness and moisture.
Sea Salt & Ground Pepper: Simple seasoning, but don’t skip! Essential for drawing out the best from each ingredient.
Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: For baking or pan-frying; both lend a light, healthy touch.

For the Sauce:

Greek Yogurt (or Coconut Yogurt): Provides a creamy, tangy base.
More Dijon Mustard: Amp up the flavor!
Fresh Lemon Juice: Lifts the sauce and complements the patties.
Fresh Dill: Use extra for the sauce; the more, the merrier.
Sea Salt & White Pepper: Rounds out the flavors.
Hot Sauce (Optional): If you love a little heat, don’t hold back.

Tip: Everything except the lemon zest and dill can easily be found in most home kitchens, so just grab those at the store and you’re ready to go!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Swap the Cheese: Try feta or cheddar for a distinct flavor twist.
Go Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt and dairy-free cheese for a totally dairy-free patty.
Add Veggies: Finely chopped red bell pepper or scallion adds crunch and pops of color.
Herb It Up: Substitute, or combine, dill with fresh parsley or chives for another layer of flavor.
Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or finely chopped chili to the fish mixture for some fire.

How to Make Fresh Dill Tuna Patties

Step 1: Mix Up the Sauce

First, whisk together Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt), Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, chopped dill, sea salt, and white pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust as you like—maybe more lemon or a welcome pop of heat from your favorite hot sauce. Cover and refrigerate so the flavors meld while you prep the patties.

Step 2: Prep the Tuna Mixture

Grab a medium bowl and break up the canned tuna with a fork so it’s flaked but still a bit chunky. Add in the beaten eggs, sea salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, chopped dill, and shredded mozzarella. Stir well to combine until you have a slightly sticky, fragrant mixture.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Line a sheet pan with parchment, then lightly brush or spritz with oil. Form the mixture into small patties—about nine in total—and arrange them evenly on the pan.

Want an extra flavor boost? Let the uncooked patties chill in the fridge for 30 minutes, or even overnight. This helps them firm up and develop deeper flavor!

Step 4: Bake or Pan Fry

For an easy, hands-off method, bake:

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Slide the tray in and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the patties are slightly golden on top.

Prefer crispy edges? Pan-fry:

Heat half the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook half the patties at a time, about 3-4 minutes per side, adding more oil as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the hot patties with a big dollop of your chilled dill sauce. They’re just as delightful paired with a simple salad or tucked in a pita!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overmix: For the best texture, gently combine the mixture so the tuna stays a little chunky.
Firm Patties: If your mix feels too wet to shape, add a spoonful of breadcrumbs—just enough to hold them together without drying out.
Golden Goodness: Whether baking or frying, don’t overcrowd the patties so they get beautifully golden and crisped.
Sauce Magic: Make the sauce ahead of time! This step lets the flavors really shine.

How to Serve

There are so many ways to enjoy these dill tuna patties! Here are some favorites:

With a Simple Salad: Serve over mixed greens with cucumber, tomato, and extra lemon wedges.
Inside a Pita or Wrap: Tuck a patty (or two!) with lettuce and tomato into warm pita bread.
Burger-Style: Stack on a whole grain bun with your favorite toppings for an elevated tuna burger experience.
Appetizer Style: Make mini patties for a fantastic starter at your next gathering, with sauce for dipping.

The zesty yogurt-mustard sauce truly takes these over the top—don’t skip it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any cooled leftover patties in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh and delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate, ideally in a small jar or bowl.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead for extra busy weeks? Freeze uncooked or fully cooked patties between layers of parchment in a lidded container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Warm patties gently in a skillet over low heat until hot, or pop in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. If reheating from frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight first.

FAQs

Can I use another type of fish instead of tuna?

Absolutely. Canned salmon works beautifully in place of tuna in this recipe. Just be sure to remove any bones and skin, and keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit richer and more robust.
Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes! The base recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming you use gluten-free Dijon mustard. If you need to firm up your patties, add gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! The air fryer is a great option for these patties. Arrange them in a single layer and air fry at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden and heated through.
What can I use instead of fresh dill?

If you can’t find fresh dill, try using about half as much dried dill. Other great options are chopped fresh parsley or chives—each will give a slightly different herbal note to your patties.

Final Thoughts

These Fresh Dill Tuna Patties check all the boxes for a meal you’ll turn to again and again: fast, simple, wholesome, and bursting with zesty, herby flavor. With minimal prep and easy clean-up, this recipe makes it a joy to put nourishing food on the table, even during the busiest weeks. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to for both weeknight dinners and meal-prepped lunches—give them a try, and let your taste buds be delighted!