Tuna Melt Fritters 

If you love comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these Tuna Melt Fritters are about to become your new favorite recipe. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and savory on the inside, and bursting with bold flavors, these fritters take everything you love about a classic tuna melt and turn it into an easy-to-eat snack. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a tasty appetizer, or a protein-packed snack, this recipe delivers in every way.

But wait—there’s more! Pair these golden fritters with a zesty lemon aioli for the ultimate flavor explosion. Creamy, tangy, and with just the right amount of spice, the aioli takes these fritters to the next level. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe 😍

Here are four irresistible reasons why these Tuna Melt Fritters will become a staple in your kitchen:

  1. Quick and Easy – From start to finish, you’ll have crispy, cheesy fritters ready in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy days when you need something delicious without the hassle.
  2. Healthy & Low-Carb – With only 1g net carbs per serving, these fritters are a fantastic option for those on a low-carb or keto diet. High in protein, packed with good fats, and incredibly satisfying!
  3. Flavor Explosion – A blend of savory tuna, melty mozzarella, zesty spices, and a creamy lemon aioli ensures each bite is bursting with deliciousness.
  4. Versatile & Customizable – Serve them as a main dish, a party appetizer, or even in a sandwich. You can also mix up the flavors to suit your taste—spicy, herby, or extra cheesy, the choice is yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need 🛒

To make these Tuna Melt Fritters, you need just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

For the fritters:

  • 🥫 12 oz canned tuna, drained
  • 🧅 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 🧀 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella (use a heaping cup for extra cheesiness!)
  • 🥚 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • 🌿 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 🥫 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 🌶️ 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
  • 🧄 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 🧂 Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 🫒 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the lemon aioli:

  • 🥫 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 🍋 1 lemon (zest from half and juice from the whole lemon)
  • 🧄 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 🌱 1/2 tsp dried mint
  • 🌶️ Pinch of dried mustard
  • 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Directions 📖

Making these crispy Tuna Melt Fritters is incredibly simple. Follow these detailed steps for the perfect golden-brown bites!

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

  1. Drain the canned tuna completely and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the tuna and break it into smaller pieces.
  2. Add the chopped red onion, shredded mozzarella, beaten eggs, parsley, mayonnaise, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be moist but hold together when scooped.

Step 2: Shape the Fritters

  1. Using a spoon or a 1/4-cup measuring cup, scoop out portions of the mixture and form them into small patties. Flatten them slightly to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Fritters

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Carefully place the fritters in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
  3. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip them.

Step 4: Make the Lemon Aioli

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried mint, dried mustard, salt, and pepper.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Serve the fritters hot with a generous dollop of lemon aioli on the side or drizzled over the top. You can also add fresh lemon slices for an extra zesty touch!

How to Serve Tuna Melt Fritters 🍽️

These fritters are incredibly versatile, and you can serve them in various ways depending on your mood!

  • Classic Style: Serve the fritters with lemon aioli and a side of mixed greens for a light yet satisfying meal.
  • Tuna Melt Burger: Use these fritters as a low-carb burger patty in a lettuce wrap or between two slices of keto-friendly bread.
  • Party Appetizer: Make mini fritters and serve them with toothpicks and dipping sauce at your next gathering!
  • Over a Salad: Add these crispy fritters to a Caesar salad or a Mediterranean-style bowl for extra protein.

How to Store & Reheat 🔄

These fritters are great for meal prep! Here’s how to store them:

  • Refrigerate: Place the fritters in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Arrange the cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm them up in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know! ❓

  1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
    Yes! Just cook fresh tuna, flake it, and use it in place of canned.
  2. What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
    Cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack work great!
  3. Can I bake these instead of frying?
    Absolutely! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
  4. Are these fritters keto-friendly?
    Yes! They’re low in carbs and high in protein and fats.
  5. What’s the best dipping sauce?
    Lemon aioli is perfect, but you can also try ranch, tzatziki, or spicy mayo.
  6. Can I make these without eggs?
    You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or a little almond flour for binding.
  7. Do these taste fishy?
    Not at all! The lemon, cheese, and spices balance out the tuna flavor.
  8. Can I add veggies?
    Yes! Finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or grated zucchini work well.
  9. Are these good for meal prep?
    Definitely! They store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated.
  10. Can I use a different type of fish?
    Yes! Try using salmon or mackerel for a different twist.

Final Thoughts 🏆

These Tuna Melt Fritters are crispy, cheesy, and packed with delicious flavors! Whether you serve them as a quick snack, a main dish, or a party appetizer, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. With only 1g net carb per fritter, they’re a guilt-free indulgence that fits perfectly into any meal plan.

So, what are you waiting for? Try this recipe today and let me know how much you love it! 😍🔥

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Tuna Melt Fritters 


  • Author: Rachel Mills
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 9

Description

These fritters are a delightful blend of savory tuna, creamy cheese, and zesty spices!


Ingredients

🥫 12 oz canned tuna fish, drained

🧅 1/4 cup red onion, chopped

🧀 3/4 cup heaping shredded mozzarella

🥚 2 eggs, lightly beaten

🌿 3 tbsp parsley, chopped

🥫 1/4 cup mayonnaise

🌶️ 1 tbsp Sriracha sauce

🧄 1/2 tsp garlic powder

🧂 Salt and pepper to taste

🫒 1 tbsp olive oil

Lemon Aioli:

🥫 1/2 cup mayonnaise

🍋 1 lemon, half zested + full juiced

🧄 1 clove garlic, minced

🌱 1/2 tsp dried mint

🌶️ Pinch dried mustard

🧂 Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

In a medium bowl, mash the tuna with a fork.

Add onion, mozzarella, eggs, parsley, mayo, Sriracha, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Mix well. Heat oil in a non-stick pan, scoop 1/4 cup of the mixture, flatten, and cook for 3 minutes on each side.

Serve with lemon aioli or lemon slices.

Lemon Aioli: Whisk all ingredients together, taste, and adjust if needed.

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