Description
These White Tuna Balls are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack, combining canned white tuna with Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and flavorful seasonings. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they’re pan-fried to golden perfection and perfect for serving with a variety of dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) white tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the tuna mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained and flaked tuna, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley if using, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and lemon juice if desired. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Adjust the mixture’s consistency by adding more breadcrumbs if too wet or a little water/milk if too dry.
- Form the tuna balls: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 12 to 15 balls depending on the size.
- Cook the tuna balls: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Carefully place the tuna balls into the skillet without overcrowding. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, turning gently, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the tuna balls from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, tartar sauce, or a creamy garlic dip.
Notes
- You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If the mixture feels too soft and won’t hold shape, chill it for 15 minutes before forming balls.
- Try adding chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra flavor twist.
- These can also be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes as a lighter cooking alternative.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh citrus kick.
