Recipe for Tuna Croquettes That Are Crispy and Delicious

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden exterior that gives way to a tender, flavorful interior. Tuna croquettes are a classic comfort food that perfectly balances these textures and flavors.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a delicious appetizer for guests, or a snack to enjoy anytime, these croquettes will not disappoint. Made with canned tuna, a bit of fresh herbs, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, they come together quickly and are incredibly versatile.

Plus, they’re a fantastic way to elevate pantry staples into something truly special and homemade.

This recipe is easy to customize, allowing you to add your favorite spices or mix in other ingredients to suit your taste. The croquettes are perfect for serving with a tangy dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.

If you love the idea of simple yet flavorful bites that bring everyone to the table, keep reading to discover how to make perfect tuna croquettes every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tuna croquettes are a crowd-pleaser because they combine convenience with classic flavors. Canned tuna is an affordable and protein-packed ingredient that’s available year-round.

This recipe transforms that humble can into crispy, golden morsels bursting with herbs and seasoning.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the herbs, spices, and even the type of coating to suit your preferences.

They’re also freezer-friendly, making them a great make-ahead option for busy nights. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, tuna croquettes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (5 oz each) of tuna, drained
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Equipment

• mixing bowl
• frying pan or skillet
• spatula
• measuring cups and spoons
• fork or potato masher
• plate lined with paper towels
• shallow dish for coating breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Prepare the tuna mixture: In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to flake the drained tuna until it’s broken down into small pieces.
2. Add aromatics and binders: Mix in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine.
3. Incorporate breadcrumbs and herbs: Add 1 cup of breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, then season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything until well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
4. Shape the croquettes: Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties or oval-shaped croquettes, about 2 inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
5. Coat the croquettes: Place extra breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Gently press each croquette into the breadcrumbs to coat evenly on all sides.
6. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a frying pan to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
7. Fry the croquettes: Carefully place croquettes in the hot oil, cooking in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Drain excess oil: Use a spatula to transfer the cooked croquettes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
9. Serve hot: Enjoy your tuna croquettes immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, try baking the croquettes at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

You can customize this recipe in many ways:

• Add cheese: Mixing in shredded cheddar or mozzarella adds a gooey texture inside the croquettes.
• Spice it up: Incorporate chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Herb swaps: Try dill, cilantro, or chives instead of parsley for different flavor profiles.
• Use panko breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy coating, substitute regular breadcrumbs with panko.

Make sure your croquettes are not too wet or too dry — the perfect texture is key to holding their shape while frying.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Tuna croquettes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and sauces. Serve them with a zesty aioli or tartar sauce for dipping, or try a fresh squeeze of lemon to brighten the flavors.

They’re also fantastic alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even inside a sandwich or wrap for a quick lunch. For a heartier meal, pair with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice.

Conclusion

Tuna croquettes are a delicious and easy way to transform simple pantry ingredients into a satisfying meal or appetizer. Their crispy exterior and flavorful interior make them a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Plus, the recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor the flavors and cooking method to your liking.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping snacks for a party, or just craving a tasty bite, these croquettes will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade tuna croquettes that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside!

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