Description
These Cheesy Tuna Nuggets are a delightful twist on traditional fish cakes, combining tuna with cheddar cheese and savory seasonings for a flavorful and protein-packed snack or meal. Whether baked in the oven or pan-fried, these crispy nuggets are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Additional:
- olive oil spray or a small amount of oil for baking or pan-frying
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or lightly grease a non-stick skillet if pan-frying.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, green onions, eggs, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
- Form the nuggets: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into small nugget-sized patties.
- Bake or pan-fry: If baking, place the nuggets on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. If pan-frying, cook in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve warm with ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- These nuggets can be made ahead and frozen before or after cooking.
- To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, coat the nuggets in panko before baking or frying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 nuggets
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
