Old Bay Tuna Cakes: Low-Carb, Flavorful Seafood Patties

Who doesn’t love tuna? We always keep a can in the pantry. We enjoy it straight from the can, on sandwiches and in salads — and we especially like tuna cakes. These Old Bay keto tuna cakes are an easy, flavorful option whether you’re following a low-carb plan or just want a quick, satisfying meal.

How to Make Tuna Cakes

I’ve made Old Bay tuna patties before using a little mustard — they’re a favorite on the blog. For a keto-friendly version, I kept the recipe simple and focused on ingredients that bind well without breadcrumbs. One large 12 oz can of tuna will usually make about four patties; you can stretch it to six if serving children or making smaller cakes.

Keto Ingredients and Prep

Drain the tuna thoroughly before mixing. Excess liquid will prevent the cakes from forming and frying properly. I like to put the tuna in a colander and press it gently between paper towels to remove moisture. If you have pets, be ready for furry supervision — our cat always shows up when tuna is involved.

Once dry, combine the tuna with almond flour (a low-carb substitute for breadcrumbs), shredded cheddar, an egg, mayonnaise and Old Bay seasoning. Some people use crushed pork rinds instead of almond flour — either works to bind the mixture. Mix until evenly combined.

Divide the mixture into four equal portions for patties, or roll into smaller tuna balls if you prefer. The size you choose will determine how many servings you get.

Heat a skillet over medium to medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Avocado or sesame oil work nicely and add subtle flavor. Fry the patties until they are golden brown on the first side before flipping. If you turn them too soon they may wrinkle, but that doesn’t affect the taste — just be patient and let them form a crust.

I prefer not to make them too thick so the egg cooks through quickly. Thicker patties are fine, but they’ll need a bit more time on the heat.

What to Serve with Tuna Cakes

These keto tuna cakes pair well with simple, low-carb sides. Try a small green salad, cheese sticks, or a handful of pork rinds for crunch. If you want a bread option, make keto tortillas or serve them with almond flour crackers for a sandwich-style bite. They reheat well, making them a convenient choice for meal prep.

Ready to eat — these tuna cakes are satisfying hot or reheated. They’re simple, quick, and adaptable to what you have on hand.

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