Description
These white tuna balls are a delicious and versatile dish, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Made with canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and flavorful seasonings, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing treat!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cans (5 oz each) of white tuna in water, drained
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating, if desired)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Lemon aioli
- Tartar sauce
- Sweet chili sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
- Shape the balls:
- Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more breadcrumbs.
- Coat (optional):
- For extra crunch, roll the tuna balls in additional breadcrumbs.
- Cook the tuna balls:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tuna balls, ensuring they are not overcrowded in the pan.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the tuna balls warm with your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a baked version, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tuna balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- These can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven or air fryer.