There’s something wonderfully nostalgic and comforting about Cheesy Tuna Nuggets—they combine the flakiness of tender tuna with the irresistible pull of melted cheese in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew after school or looking for a quick, satisfying appetizer for gathering friends, these nuggets hit the spot. Imagine golden, crispy exteriors giving way to a savory, cheesy center… they’re easy to make, endlessly versatile, fabulously kid-friendly, and guaranteed to disappear in record time.

Cheesy Tuna Nuggets Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Cheesy Tuna Nuggets is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component adds a little something special, from flavor to crunch, making these nuggets totally irresistible and absolutely no-fuss.

Tuna: Go for two cans of tuna in water, drained and flaked—the star that brings protein and rich flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: One cup brings that bubbly, gooey cheese pull and plenty of sharpness.
Egg: Binds everything together so your nuggets hold up during baking or air frying.
Breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating): Half a cup gives structure and bulk, and extra breadcrumbs coat the outside for extra crunch.
Mayonnaise: Just enough to add creaminess and help lock in moisture.
Dijon Mustard: A spoonful gives a gentle, sophisticated tang that elevates the nuggets.
Garlic Powder: Infuses every bite with savory depth without overpowering the tuna.
Onion Powder: Adds subtle sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: A pinch of both brings out all the delicious flavors—taste as you go!
Olive Oil Spray: Essential whether baking or air frying for that perfectly crispy finish without extra grease.

How to Make Cheesy Tuna Nuggets

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer

Get a head start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures those nuggets start crisping up the moment they go in, creating that signature golden shell.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, add the well-drained, flaked tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, egg, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture looks thoroughly combined and cohesive—don’t be afraid to get your hands in there for the best results!

Step 3: Shape and Coat the Nuggets

Using a tablespoon or small scoop, portion out the mixture and gently form it into bite-sized nuggets or patties. Once shaped, roll each nugget in the extra breadcrumbs so they’re evenly coated—this step is what gives Cheesy Tuna Nuggets their signature crunch.

Step 4: Arrange and Oil

Place the nuggets on a parchment-lined baking sheet if you’re using the oven, or arrange them in your air fryer basket. Give them a light mist with olive oil spray—this helps them crisp up and develop that beautiful golden hue.

Step 5: Bake or Air Fry

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping the nuggets over halfway through so both sides get evenly crispy. If you’re air frying, 10 to 12 minutes should do the trick. You’ll know they’re ready when the exteriors are beautifully golden and the centers are hot and melty.

How to Serve Cheesy Tuna Nuggets

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle your Cheesy Tuna Nuggets with finely chopped parsley or a little freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. A squeeze of lemon on the side brightens every bite and gives a nod to classic seafood flavors.

Side Dishes

Cheesy Tuna Nuggets are spectacular with a crisp green salad, oven fries, or a pile of crunchy veggie sticks. They also love company from classic sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple tomato cucumber salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving them skewered on toothpicks as fun party snacks or stack them atop slider buns with lettuce and a swipe of tartar sauce for mini sandwiches. For a kid-friendly touch, offer a few playful dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo alongside your Cheesy Tuna Nuggets.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, pop any leftover Cheesy Tuna Nuggets into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They make awesome lunchbox additions or easy snacks the next day!

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked, breaded nuggets on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake or air fry straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Cheesy Tuna Nuggets in a preheated oven or air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crispy again. The microwave works in a pinch, but the coating won’t be quite as crunchy.

FAQs

Can I substitute the tuna with another protein?

Absolutely! Canned salmon, shredded cooked chicken, or even flaked cooked white fish all work beautifully. This base recipe is flexible and forgiving—get creative with what you have on hand.

Are Cheesy Tuna Nuggets gluten-free?

They can be—just use your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs for both the mixture and the coating. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so no worries there.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the boldest, tangiest flavor, but you can also try Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or a mix for a twist. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well for that irresistible gooey center.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes! Form and bread the nuggets ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking or air frying right before guests arrive. They’ll come out hot and perfect just when you need them.

How can I make these nuggets extra nutritious?

Finely grated zucchini, carrots, or chopped spinach blend in seamlessly and add a boost of vitamins. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture from veggies first to keep the nuggets crisp.

Final Thoughts

Once you try homemade Cheesy Tuna Nuggets, I have a feeling they’ll become a regular craving at your house too. They’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any occasion. Give them a go—you’ll dream about that crispy, cheesy bite all week long!

Cheesy Tuna Nuggets Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 16–18 nuggets 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Cheesy Tuna Nuggets are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein and flavor, these crispy nuggets are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water (drained and flaked)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Olive oil spray (for baking or air frying)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine tuna, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Shape and Coat: Scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture, shape into nuggets, and coat with extra breadcrumbs.
Bake or Air Fry: Place nuggets on a lined sheet, spray with olive oil. Bake for 15–18 mins or air fry for 10–12 mins, flipping halfway.
Serve: Enjoy warm with dipping sauce.