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Air fryer tuna balls with a crispy golden breadcrumb coating and tender flaky tuna filling, served with lemon wedges and fresh parsley in a white bowl.
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Air Fryer Tuna Balls - Crispy, Quick, and Budget-Friendly

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cans tuna (5 oz/142 g each), drained well
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko; gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 small shallot or 1/4 small red onion, finely minced
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Lemon wedges, for serving
  • Olive oil spray (or a light brush of oil for the basket)
  • Optional dips: lemon-garlic yogurt, spicy mayo, or tzatziki

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C). If your model needs preheating, give it a full 3–5 minutes.
  • Prep the tuna: Drain tuna very well. Press out extra liquid with the lid or a paper towel so the mixture holds together.
  • Mix the base: In a bowl, combine tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, mayo, Dijon, shallot, garlic, parsley, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly moistened. The mixture should be slightly tacky but not wet.
  • Adjust texture: If it’s crumbly, add 1 teaspoon mayo or yogurt. If too wet, add 1–2 tablespoons breadcrumbs.
  • Form the balls: Scoop about 1 heaping tablespoon per ball and roll gently. Aim for 1.25–1.5 inches in diameter for even cooking. You should get about 16–18 balls.
  • Lightly oil: Mist the air fryer basket with oil. Place the tuna balls in a single layer with a little space between. Mist the tops, too.
  • Air fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket or turning the balls halfway. They’re done when golden brown and firm to the touch.
  • Taste and finish: Squeeze a little lemon over the hot tuna balls and add a pinch of salt if needed.
  • Serve: Pair with your favorite dip, a simple green salad, or tuck into warm pita with lettuce and cucumbers.