An irresistibly crispy and cheesy snack that’s packed with protein, quick to prepare, and perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re craving a warm appetizer, a quick snack, or a light dinner, these white tuna balls will hit the spot. With their golden crust and tender interior, they’re sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For this delightful recipe, you’ll need a handful of versatile and flavorful ingredients that are easy to find and bring out the best in each bite. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating these crispy, golden treats.
- A can of white tuna (preferably 150-200 g), drained and flaked. Tuna provides a rich, savory flavor and a healthy dose of protein, making these balls not only delicious but also nutritious. Be sure to use a high-quality brand for the best results.
- One large egg, which serves as the essential binding agent. It helps hold the mixture together, ensuring the tuna balls retain their shape while cooking.
- One cup of shredded cheese, such as Colby, cheddar, or mozzarella. The cheese melts beautifully during cooking, adding a creamy, gooey texture and a hint of indulgent flavor.
- A quarter cup of Parmesan cheese, which enhances the flavor profile with its salty, nutty notes. Parmesan also creates a lightly crisp outer layer, adding the perfect finishing touch to the tuna balls.
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, used to season the mixture and bring out the delicious flavors of the tuna and cheese. Adjust these to your taste preferences for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Optional: A small amount of finely chopped onions for a subtle crunch and an extra layer of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of sweetness in your savory dishes, onions are a fantastic addition.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your White Tuna Balls in the air fryer, and in just a few minutes, you’ll have a crispy, golden treat ready to enjoy.
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by draining the tuna thoroughly and flaking it into a mixing bowl. Properly draining the tuna ensures the mixture isn’t too wet, which helps the balls hold their shape. Add the egg, shredded cheese, Parmesan, and your seasonings—salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder—to the bowl. If you’re using chopped onions, toss them in as well.
Using a spoon or your hands, mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be slightly sticky but firm enough to shape into balls. If it feels too wet, you can add a little more Parmesan or shredded cheese to achieve the right consistency.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
Once the mixture is ready, scoop out small portions (about the size of a tablespoon) and roll them into balls with your hands. To create a crispy, golden exterior, roll each ball lightly in some additional Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the tuna balls a beautiful crust when cooked.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is an important step to ensure even cooking and a perfectly crispy texture. While the air fryer is heating, you can continue shaping your tuna balls and placing them on a tray or plate.
Step 4: Cook the Tuna Balls
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Place the tuna balls in a single layer in the basket, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even airflow. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
Set the air fryer to 10 minutes. Halfway through cooking (around the 5-minute mark), carefully flip the tuna balls using tongs to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. You’ll notice the cheese melting and the Parmesan coating turning a beautiful golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the tuna balls are cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm, but they’re also delicious at room temperature.
Serve them as a standalone snack or appetizer, or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce. Garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or even a tangy marinara sauce make fantastic accompaniments. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or an extra dusting of Parmesan for an elegant finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Draining the Tuna: Make sure to drain the tuna thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the mixture.
- Consistent Size: Try to make the balls roughly the same size to ensure even cooking.
- Customizable Flavors: Feel free to experiment with seasonings or add-ins like chopped herbs, lemon zest, or breadcrumbs for a unique twist.
- Stovetop Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can pan-fry these tuna balls in a little oil over medium heat until golden brown.
White Tuna Balls in the Air Fryer are a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. Packed with protein and bursting with cheesy goodness, they’re ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these tuna balls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why not give them a try tonight? 🐟✨