Baked Tuna Balls
Golden baked tuna balls with crunchy cornflake coating and savory herbs, perfect as appetizers or party snacks for seafood lovers and fans of easy, flavorful bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tuna, egg, bread crumbs, mayonnaise, chopped onion, parsley, chopped almonds, prepared mustard, and poultry seasoning in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Shape the mixture into 40 small balls and roll each in crushed cornflakes to coat evenly.
- Dip each coated ball in melted butter to add flavor and help with browning.
- Place the prepared balls on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve hot on cocktail toothpicks as an appetizer or party snack.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you don't have almonds, you can substitute with finely chopped walnuts or omit them entirely. Instead of cornflakes, crushed tortilla chips can be a crunchy alternative. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs and make sure the tuna is certified gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
These baked tuna balls are perfect as a cocktail snack or appetizer. Serve them hot with a side of tartar sauce or a zesty dipping sauce for added flavor. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crunchy vegetable sticks. For a fun twist, try them alongside Ken'S Beer Battered Fish for a delightful seafood platter.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked tuna balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tuna Balls contains roughly 44 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna; however, you'll need to cook it first and then flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. This may change the texture slightly, but it will provide a fresher taste.
How can I make these tuna balls spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the mixture. You could also substitute the prepared mustard with a spicy mustard for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the uncooked tuna balls?
Absolutely! Form the balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).