Easy Tuna Croquettes Recipe with Canned Tuna
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This easy tuna croquettes recipe with canned tuna is delicious, budget-friendly meal that comes together quickly using pantry staples. These crispy, golden patties are packed with flavor and perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or even an appetizer. The best part? This recipe uses canned tuna, making it an easy go-to meal when you need something satisfying yet simple.
This tuna recipe just takes a couple of cans of tuna that are an economical protein source and a few pantry ingredients that are budget-friendly too. It’s an old-fashioned favorite like crab cakes or salmon cakes with a less expensive alternative. So grab a small bowl and get started on making these golden brown tuna croquettes for your next meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Easy Dinner Idea, ready in under 30 minutes!
- Affordable: Uses canned tuna and just a few basic ingredients.
- Versatile: Serve them with a salad, in a sandwich, or as a snack.
- Crispy and Flavorful: Golden brown crust with a tender, seasoned interior.
For more canned tuna recipes, check these out:
- Tuna Melt Sandwich
- Creamy Tuna Pasta Salad
- Tuna Salad Recipe with Egg
- Tuna Pot Pie with Biscuit Topping
Easy Tuna Croquettes
Ingredients
- 2 cans 5 oz each tuna, drained
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- 1 clove garlic crushed
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup panko crumbs
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds finely ground
- 1/4 cup corn starch
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, flour, breadcrumbs, baking powder, garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, egg, and parsley. Mix everything well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, mix panko, corn starch, and ground pumpkin seeds.
- Scoop out the fritter batter with a spoon, and drop spoonfuls into the panko/seed mixture, and roll to coat.
- Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the croquettes to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid flipping too soon to prevent them from falling apart.
- Once the croquettes are done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce, lemon aioli, or a simple squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions
- On a Salad: Serve on a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- In a Sandwich: Place inside a bun with lettuce and tomato for a delicious tuna burger.
- As a Snack: Enjoy with a dipping sauce for a tasty appetizer.
Side Dishes for Tuna Croquettes
You can do a light side or a heartier, starchy side, or even a nice soup alongside your tuna croquettes, here are some ideas:
- Coleslaw – A tangy vinegar-based or creamy slaw adds crunch and freshness.
- Cucumber Salad – Thinly sliced cucumbers with a light vinaigrette or yogurt dressing.
- Tomato & Avocado Salad – Diced tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and a squeeze of lime.
- Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans – Lightly seasoned with olive oil and lemon.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crispy croquettes.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Slightly sweet and caramelized to balance the savory croquettes.
- Corn on the Cob – Boiled, grilled, or roasted with butter and seasoning.
- Buttered Noodles – Simple egg noodles tossed with butter and herbs.
- Tomato Basil Soup – A warm and comforting option.
- Corn Chowder – A creamy soup that pairs well with seafood.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until crispy again.
These easy tuna croquettes are a fantastic way to turn canned tuna into a satisfying and flavorful dish. Try them today and enjoy a simple yet delicious homemade meal!
