🍽 Instructions – How to Make White Tuna Balls in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix it all together:
In a medium bowl, combine drained white tuna, egg, shredded Colby cheese, Parmesan cheese, and your choice of seasonings. If using chopped onions, mix those in now too. - Shape into balls:
Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form bite-sized balls. Roll each ball lightly in additional Parmesan cheese for an extra-crispy coating. - Place in the air fryer:
Arrange the tuna balls in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding—work in batches if needed. - Cook:
Air fry for 10 minutes total at 400°F, flipping halfway through (at the 5-minute mark). Depending on your air fryer model and the size of your tuna balls, you might want to cook each side for 7–10 minutes for a deeper golden crust.
🧡 Tips for Best Results
- Drain the tuna well to avoid soggy balls.
- Cheese matters: Colby gives a nice melt and mild taste, but you can experiment with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even mozzarella.
- Add texture: If the mixture feels too soft, you can mix in a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or oats to firm it up.
- Flip gently: Use tongs or a spatula so the cheese coating doesn’t stick or fall apart when flipping.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Serve these warm straight out of the fryer with your favorite dip. Some top pairing ideas:
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy mayo
- Garlic aioli
- Marinara sauce
- Greek yogurt mixed with herbs
They’re also great over a salad, tucked in a pita, or served with steamed veggies and rice for a full meal.
🔁 Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes or until warm and crispy again.
🧠 FAQ – You Might Be Wondering…
Can I use another type of tuna?
Yes! Chunk light tuna or albacore works too. Just be sure it’s drained well.
Can I make them ahead?
Absolutely. Mix and shape the balls, refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours, and pop them in the air fryer when ready.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze cooked tuna balls in a single layer, then store in a bag or container. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
📣 Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer White Tuna Balls are the perfect solution if you’re looking for a hot, protein-packed snack that’s anything but boring. They come together in a flash, use minimal ingredients, and deliver on both flavor and texture. Whether you’re low-carb, gluten-free, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this tuna recipe is a keeper.
Try them once—you’ll never want to eat cold tuna again. 😋🔥
