These Air Fryer Tuna Cakes are a delicious and healthier take on the classic tuna cakes or patties. With a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful inside, these cakes are packed with protein and make for a great meal or snack. Using the air fryer instead of frying them in oil ensures that they’re much lighter but still perfectly crispy. They’re easy to make and customizable with your favorite seasonings and add-ins like fresh herbs or vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray (for crispiness)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained and flaked tuna, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. If you’re using fresh herbs like parsley or dill, fold them into the mixture.
  2. Shape the Tuna Cakes: Using your hands, divide the tuna mixture into 4-6 portions (depending on how large you want your cakes). Roll them into balls, then gently press each one flat to form patties about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Air Fry the Tuna Cakes: Lightly brush or spray both sides of the tuna cakes with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cakes are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
  5. Serve: Once they’re done, carefully remove the tuna cakes from the air fryer. Serve them warm with a squeeze of lemon, tartar sauce, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition (Approx. Per Tuna Cake – based on 5 cakes):

  • Calories: 170-200 kcal
  • Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugar: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Sodium: 350-400mg
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

These Air Fryer Tuna Cakes are the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and healthy. They’re packed with flavor from the tuna and seasonings and are quick and easy to prepare in the air fryer. Whether you serve them as a light meal, appetizer, or snack, they’re sure to be a hit! You can also customize the flavor by adding in your favorite veggies or spices. Enjoy!