Quick Description
These Golden Crunch Tuna Bites with Melted Cheese Center are crispy on the outside, soft and savory on the inside, with a delicious cheesy pull in every bite. Made with simple pantry ingredients like canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and cheese, they’re quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect as an appetizer, snack, lunchbox item, or party finger food, these tuna bites are crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor — especially when served hot while the cheese is still melted.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Tuna Mixture
- 2 cans tuna in water, drained well and shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Coating & Frying
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a large bowl, add:
- Drained and shredded tuna
- Shredded cheese
- Breadcrumbs
- Egg
- Mayonnaise
- Parsley
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
Mix everything well until the mixture is fully combined and holds together when pressed.
2. Shape the Bites
Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into compact balls using your hands.
Make sure they are firm so they don’t break while frying.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs
Roll each tuna ball in the extra breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the coating sticks evenly.
This step ensures a golden, crunchy exterior.
4. Fry Until Golden
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
Carefully add the tuna bites in batches.
Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning gently, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
5. Drain & Serve
Remove the tuna bites using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve hot, while the cheese inside is still melted and gooey.
Texture & Taste
- Crispy, golden breadcrumb crust
- Soft, flavorful tuna interior
- Melted cheese center
- Savory with gentle garlic and paprika notes
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Protein: 28–32g
- Carbs: 22–25g
- Fat: 18–22g
- Fiber: 2g
Why This Recipe Works
✔ Canned tuna makes it budget-friendly
✔ Cheese keeps the center soft and creamy
✔ Breadcrumb coating adds crunch
✔ Quick frying locks in moisture
Benefits
- High-Protein: Tuna and cheese keep it filling
- Kid-Friendly: Mild flavor and cheesy center
- Versatile: Snack, appetizer, or meal add-on
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes
Additional Notes
- Drain tuna very well to avoid soggy bites
- Mozzarella gives more cheese pull, cheddar gives more flavor
- Keep oil at medium heat to avoid burning
Recipe Variations
- Air Fryer Version: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce
- Herby Version: Add dill or oregano
- Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic mayo
- Tartar sauce
- Ketchup or chili sauce
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh salad on the side
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in airtight container
- Reheat: Oven or air fryer for best crispiness
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked bites, then fry or air fry from frozen
FAQs
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I use fresh tuna?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna works great.
Why did my bites fall apart?
The mixture may be too wet — add a little more breadcrumbs.
Optional Personal Note
These tuna bites disappear fast every time I make them. Crispy outside, cheesy inside — they’re one of those snacks that everyone keeps reaching for.
