Description
Cheesy Tuna Nuggets are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring tender tuna combined with cheddar cheese, seasoned with garlic and green onions, then coated in crispy breadcrumbs and pan-fried to golden perfection. These flavorful nuggets are perfect for a quick bite or party platter.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is mixed thoroughly to create an even blend.
- Add egg: Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir well so it binds all the ingredients together, helping the nuggets hold their shape when cooked.
- Form nuggets: Shape the mixture with your hands into small, nugget-sized patties, ensuring they are compact to avoid breaking during cooking.
- Coat nuggets: Press each nugget gently into the breadcrumbs to coat all sides evenly. This coating will crisp up nicely when fried.
- Heat oil: Pour cooking oil into a skillet and heat it over medium heat until shimmering and hot enough to fry.
- Fry nuggets: Carefully place the coated nuggets in the skillet and fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain and serve: Remove the cooked nuggets and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce for a tasty treat.
Notes
- You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs depending on your taste preference.
- If you prefer a healthier option, bake the nuggets at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid soggy nuggets.
- These nuggets pair wonderfully with tartar sauce, ranch, or spicy mayo.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or lemon zest to the mixture.
