Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? Look no further! This recipe for crispy canned tuna patties, cooked to perfection in an air fryer, is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Forget greasy, overcooked tuna patties; this method delivers perfectly golden-brown, flaky patties with a delightful crunch. It's one of the best recipes for transforming humble canned tuna into a truly satisfying meal. These easy recipes are perfect for those seeking healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your canned tuna game!
Ingredients:
- 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions:
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Prep the Tuna: In a medium bowl, gently flake the drained tuna with a fork. Be careful not to overwork it, as this can make the patties dry.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the bread crumbs, onion, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the tuna. Gently mix until everything is well combined. Don't overmix!
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Form Patties: Shape the tuna mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Aim for about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.
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Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Air Fry: Place the tuna patties in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model.
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Serve & Enjoy: Remove the patties from the air fryer and serve immediately. These delicious dishes pair perfectly with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Patties:
- Don't overmix the tuna: Overmixing can result in tough patties. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Use panko bread crumbs: Panko bread crumbs create a wonderfully crispy exterior.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding can prevent even cooking. Cook the patties in batches if necessary.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Tuna Patties: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Tuna Patties: Stir in 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese for extra flavor.
- Mediterranean Tuna Patties: Add 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for a Mediterranean twist.
Nutritional Information (per patty, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fat: Approximately 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams
This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best – quick, easy, healthy, and utterly delicious. These crispy canned tuna patties are sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!