These Tuna Melt Poppers are a fun twist on a classic! Imagine crispy bites filled with tasty tuna, melted cheese, and a hint of spice, all ready for you to munch on.
They’re perfect for a snack or a quick meal when you’re feeling a bit lazy. I love dipping them in ranch or sriracha for an extra kick. Trust me, once you start, it’s hard to stop! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Canned tuna is the star here, but make sure to choose quality! You can substitute with canned salmon or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Both provide a deliciously different flavor and texture.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold taste. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, use mild cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of spice. You can switch it up with mozzarella if you love gooey cheese!
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess, but if you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute. It’s also a healthier option that still keeps the texture smooth.
Onion and Celery: These add crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan of either, you can leave them out or use diced pickles for a tangy twist. Green onions work well too!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crunch on My Poppers?
Achieving that crispy texture is key! Here are my tips:
- Make sure to coat each popper well in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. This layering is essential for crispy goodness.
- Let the poppers rest for a few minutes after coating. This helps the crust stick better while frying.
- Keep the oil at the right temperature. Too cool, and they’ll absorb oil; too hot, and they may burn. Use a thermometer for accuracy!
Frying in batches prevents overcrowding, which ensures even cooking. Once golden brown, let them drain on paper towels to keep them crispy. Enjoy your crunchy Tuna Melt Poppers with your favorite dip!
Tuna Melt Poppers
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra slices for wrapping)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of sharp cheddar cheese (to wrap each popper)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Cooking oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare these delicious poppers and around 15 minutes for frying. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onion, celery (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be the delicious filling for your poppers!
2. Shape the Poppers:
Now it’s time to form your mixture into adorable little poppers! Mold the tuna mixture into small oval-shaped balls—about the size of a golf ball. This is the fun part!
3. Wrap with Cheese:
Lay out your cheddar cheese slices on a clean surface. Take each tuna ball and wrap it completely with a slice of cheese, pressing to seal the edges. If there’s extra cheese hanging off, just fold it over to cover the ball entirely. This will create a gooey, cheesy center when cooked!
4. Set Up for Breading:
Prepare your breading station with three shallow bowls. In one bowl, add the flour, in the second, add the beaten eggs, and in the third, pour in the panko breadcrumbs. This setup is key for getting that perfect crispy coating!
5. Bread the Poppers:
Take each cheese-wrapped tuna ball and dredge it in the flour first, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting the extra drip off. Finally, thoroughly coat it in the panko breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch!
6. Frying Time:
In a deep skillet, heat enough cooking oil over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tuna poppers in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps them fry evenly.
7. Get Them Golden Brown:
Fry the poppers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain them on paper towels. This helps get rid of any excess oil.
8. Presentation Time:
Arrange your crispy Tuna Melt Poppers on a serving platter. For an extra touch, you can drizzle some melted cheddar or your favorite cheese sauce on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious Tuna Melt Poppers immediately with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo. Now, get ready for everyone to enjoy these tasty, cheesy bites that are hard to resist!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, flavorful Tuna Melt Poppers that ooze melted cheddar with every bite! Happy eating!
Can I Use Different Types of Tuna for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! While canned tuna in water is commonly used, you can also use tuna in oil for a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using canned chickpeas or even shredded cooked chicken as a direct substitute.
Can I Prepare These Poppers in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tuna mixture and shape the poppers up to a day in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bread and fry. For longer storage, freeze them after shaping, then fry them directly from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time!
What if I Don’t Have Panko Breadcrumbs?
No worries! If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work fine too. Just be aware that traditional breadcrumbs may not yield the same crispy texture as panko, but they will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftover Poppers?
To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. Enjoy your delicious snacks again!