Air Fryer Spicy Tuna Cakes are crispy and flavorful patties made with canned tuna, breadcrumbs, and spicy seasonings. Perfectly golden and tender, they are served with a creamy dipping sauce and a fresh green salad, making them a delightful appetizer or light meal.
Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- For the tuna cakes:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
- For the dipping sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
For serving:
- Green salad or steamed vegetables
Preparation Instructions:
- Prepare the tuna mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, garlic, green onions, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the patties:
- Form the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Cook in the air fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the patties in a single layer.
- Spray the tops of the patties lightly with cooking spray and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make the dipping sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Serve:
- Garnish the tuna cakes with chopped parsley and serve hot with the dipping sauce and a green salad.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
Key Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer.
Enjoy the bold and satisfying flavors of “Air Fryer Spicy Tuna Cakes,” a perfect mix of crispy and spicy goodness! 😊