These Tuna Melt Poppers are a tasty treat with creamy tuna and melted cheese stuffed in little bites of bread. Perfect for snacking or as a fun appetizer!
They’re super easy to make, and the best part? You can pop one right into your mouth! I love adding a little sprinkle of hot sauce for a kick. Yum! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Use good-quality tuna, ideally packed in water for a lighter option. If you’re short on tuna, you can swap in canned salmon or chicken for a different twist.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some extra spice. Dairy-free cheese can work well, too!
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo can be a healthier choice. I sometimes use avocado instead for a smooth texture.
Red bell pepper: For added crunch and flavor, use other sweet peppers like yellow or orange bell pepper. If you want a bit of heat, consider jalapeños.
Panko breadcrumbs: These are key for that crispy outside. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko gives a better crunch. If you need gluten-free, look for gluten-free panko.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch When Frying?
Frying can be tricky, but these tips will help you achieve that crispy texture. First, make sure your oil is hot enough—about 350°F (175°C) is ideal. You can test it with a small piece of bread; it should sizzle on contact.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this lowers the oil temperature and makes the poppers soggy.
- Fry in batches, letting each batch brown nicely before moving them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Patience is key! Let each popper cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
Enjoy making these crispy, cheesy Tuna Melt Poppers! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Tuna Melt Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper (plus extra strips for wrapping)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Wrapping and Coating:
- 8 thin slices red bell pepper, cut into strips for wrapping
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Oil, for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be enjoying your Tuna Melt Poppers in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped red bell pepper, chopped onion, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy. This mixture is what makes your poppers delicious!
2. Shape the Poppers:
Take about a tablespoon of the mixture and form it into an oval-shaped ball or popper. Make sure it’s compact so it holds together well. Each should be about the size of a golf ball.
3. Wrap with Red Bell Pepper:
Take a strip of red bell pepper and wrap it around each tuna ball. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the tuna poppers nicely shaped. Secure it as best as you can.
4. Prepare for Frying:
Set up two shallow bowls. One should have the beaten eggs, and the other should be filled with panko breadcrumbs. This will help create that crispy coating we love!
5. Coat the Poppers:
Dip each wrapped tuna popper first into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat it completely with panko breadcrumbs. Make sure every side is covered to get that amazing crunch!
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking (aim for around 350°F or 175°C). You can check if it’s ready by throwing in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle immediately.
7. Fry the Poppers:
Carefully add the poppers into the hot oil in batches. Fry them until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remember not to overcrowd the pan!
8. Drain and Serve:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the poppers to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. This step is crucial for keeping them crispy!
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your Tuna Melt Poppers warm. Sprinkle them with chopped parsley for a pop of color. And there you go—deliciously crispy poppers filled with cheesy goodness!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Tuna Melt Poppers as a fun appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Tuna?
Absolutely! Canned chicken works well and provides a different flavor. Just follow the same steps and you’ll have delicious Chicken Melt Poppers instead.
What If I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but keep in mind that they may not give you the same level of crunch. If you have them, crushed crackers or cornflakes can also be a great alternative!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Lay the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spray lightly with cooking spray, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through until they are golden brown.