Keto Tuna Cabbage Patties: The Low-Carb Meal You’ll Actually Crave

Looking for a recipe that’s low-carb, crazy flavorful, and ridiculously easy to whip up? These Keto Tuna Cabbage Patties tick all the boxes. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, stick to keto, or just need something new for dinner that doesn’t involve 17 dishes to clean up after, these patties will save the day—and maybe even your sanity.

Made with pantry staples like canned tuna and fresh cabbage, they’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and pack a satisfying crunch. Pair them with a tangy dipping sauce, serve over a fresh salad, or stack them between lettuce leaves for a quick lunch. Let’s dive into the how-to and why you’re about to add this recipe to your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Nothing Weird, I Promise)

Here’s what you’ll need to pull this together. Most of it might already be in your kitchen. If not, it’s all affordable and easy to find.

For the Patties:

• 2 cans of tuna (5 oz each) – Drained. Go for the good stuff, packed in water or olive oil.
• 1 cup shredded cabbage – Green or purple cabbage works. Chop it finely so it binds well.
• 2 large eggs – Acts as a binder to keep everything together.
• 1/4 cup almond flour – Keeps it keto-friendly while giving structure.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds saltiness and a cheesy kick.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley – Optional but highly recommended for flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced or grated.
• 1 tsp onion powder – Adds depth without chopping extra onions.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – A little smoky flair.
• Salt and pepper – Season to taste.
• 2–3 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil – For frying, because crispy is king.

For a Quick Dipping Sauce (Optional but WOW):

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional) – Adjust for your spice level.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Keto-Friendly and Low-Carb: At just a few net carbs per patty, you can enjoy these without a side of guilt.
• Super Budget-Friendly: Canned tuna and cabbage are as wallet-friendly as it gets.
• Meal-Prep Gold: Make a batch, and they’ll stay good in the fridge for 3–4 days. Perfect for busy weekdays.
• Customizable: Swap out ingredients, add some heat, or mix in your favorite herbs. The base recipe is a blank slate.
• Minimal Effort, Max Flavor: No food processors, no fancy gadgets. Just mix, fry, and serve.

How to Make Keto Tuna Cabbage Patties: Step-by-Step

You don’t need to be a chef to pull this off, but these steps will ensure perfect patties every time.

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by draining your tuna. Nobody wants soggy patties, so squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Toss the tuna into a mixing bowl and fluff it with a fork to break up the chunks.

Next, shred your cabbage. If you’re short on time, grab a pre-shredded coleslaw mix. Otherwise, use a sharp knife or mandoline slicer and chop it fine. Too chunky, and it won’t bind well.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In the same bowl, toss in the shredded cabbage, eggs, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to combine everything. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to hold its shape when formed into patties.

If it feels too wet, sprinkle in a little extra almond flour. Too dry? Add a splash of olive oil.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Grab a handful of the mixture (about 1/4 cup per patty) and form it into a compact disc. Aim for about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. This size fries evenly and crisps up perfectly.

Place the formed patties on a plate or parchment paper while you finish shaping the rest.

Step 4: Heat the Oil and Fry

In a non-stick skillet, heat 2–3 tablespoons of avocado or olive oil over medium heat. Test the oil by dropping a small bit of the mixture in; it should sizzle gently.

Place the patties in the pan, leaving space between them. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully with a spatula to avoid breaking them.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once they’re done, transfer the patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

These patties are versatile enough to pair with just about anything. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• Over a Salad: Place the patties on a bed of greens with a drizzle of your favorite keto-friendly dressing.
• As a Wrap: Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb “bun” and pile on avocado, tomato, or pickles.
• With the Dipping Sauce: Whip up the quick sauce from above for an extra layer of flavor.
• Topped with a Fried Egg: For brunch vibes, top with a runny fried egg. You won’t regret it.
• As-Is: Honestly, they’re delicious straight out of the skillet.

Pro Tips for Next-Level Patties

• Drain, Drain, Drain: Too much moisture in the tuna or cabbage is the enemy. Don’t skip this step.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the patties room to fry evenly. Overcrowding leads to steaming, and nobody wants soggy patties.
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Trust me, it’ll save you from frustration.
• Make Them Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños if you like a kick.

Can You Bake These? (Yep!)

If frying isn’t your thing, you can bake these patties instead. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, spray lightly with oil, and arrange the patties in a single layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These patties are just as good the next day (maybe better). Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in an air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 350°F to regain that crispy texture.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic here lies in the balance. You’ve got protein-packed tuna, fiber-rich cabbage, and just enough fat from the Parmesan and oil to keep it satisfying. The almond flour binds it all together without adding carbs, and the seasonings elevate the whole dish without overpowering it. It’s like the little black dress of keto recipes—simple, timeless, and always appropriate.

Bonus Variations to Try

• Zucchini Swap: Sub shredded zucchini for cabbage. Just squeeze out the excess moisture first.
• Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce (or coconut aminos) and some grated ginger to the mix.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Stuff a cube of mozzarella in the center of each patty for a gooey surprise.
• Mediterranean Twist: Mix in chopped olives and crumbled feta for a Greek-inspired version.

Conclusion

Keto Tuna Cabbage Patties are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes, you can have a meal that’s satisfying, flavorful, and low-carb. Whether you’re on a keto journey or just want to try something new, this recipe is worth saving (and making) again and again.

So, grab that tuna in your pantry, shred some cabbage, and let your skillet do the work. Your taste buds—and your macros—will thank you.

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