Air Fryer White Tuna Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make snack that’s perfect both warm and cold, these Air Fryer White Tuna Balls are an excellent choice. Combining the savory flavors of white tuna, rich cheeses, and a blend of seasonings, these tuna balls are ideal for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through each step, offering tips and nutritional information to make your cooking experience seamless and enjoyable.

Ingredients

  • 1 can white tuna (5 oz), drained
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Colby cheese recommended)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (Kroger organic shaker bottle or similar)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Garlic powder, to taste
  • Onion powder, to taste
  • Optional: diced real onions, to taste (if preferred)

Instructions

1. Preparation of Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Drain the white tuna thoroughly to remove any excess liquid. This helps prevent the mixture from becoming too wet and ensures that the tuna balls hold their shape during cooking.

2. Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained white tuna and one large egg. The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the tuna mixture together. Add the shredded Colby cheese and Parmesan cheese. For a rich, flavorful mix, the cheeses provide both creaminess and a deliciously sharp taste.

3. Seasoning

Season the mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy a bit of extra texture and flavor, consider adding diced real onions. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.

4. Forming the Tuna Balls

Using your hands or a spoon, shape the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. For an added touch of flavor and texture, roll each ball in additional Parmesan cheese before placing them in the air fryer. This creates a crispy, golden crust that enhances the overall taste.

5. Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the tuna balls cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.

6. Cooking the Tuna Balls

Arrange the tuna balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd them; leave some space between each ball to allow for even air circulation. Cook the tuna balls at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the tuna balls to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

7. Checking Doneness

After 10 minutes on each side, check the tuna balls for doneness. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a tender interior. If needed, you can add a few extra minutes of cooking time to achieve the desired crispiness.

8. Serving

Once cooked, remove the tuna balls from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm for the best flavor, or allow them to cool to room temperature if you prefer them cold. These tuna balls are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces or enjoying on their own.

Nutritional Information (per tuna ball, assuming recipe makes 12 balls)

  • Calories: 80
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 6g

Tips for Success

  1. Draining Tuna: Ensure the tuna is well-drained to prevent the mixture from becoming too watery. Press out as much liquid as possible before mixing.
  2. Cheese Choices: While Colby cheese is recommended for its mild flavor, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for different taste profiles.
  3. Seasoning: Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. A touch of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a bit of heat and extra flavor.
  4. Air Fryer Models: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. Keep an eye on the tuna balls as they cook, and adjust the time as necessary.
  5. Batch Cooking: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the tuna balls in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. This helps ensure they cook evenly.
  6. Storage: Store any leftover tuna balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

These Air Fryer White Tuna Balls are a fantastic, easy-to-make snack or meal option. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, they are sure to be a hit whether you’re serving them warm or cold. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you’ll be able to achieve perfect tuna balls every time. Enjoy them as a quick snack, a meal addition, or a party appetizer!

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties and seasoning blends to make this recipe your own.