Tuna Croquettes
Tuna croquettes offer a crispy, cheesy bite with tender tuna and savory flavors. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they combine canned tuna, Velveeta cheese, and crunchy crackers for a satisfying treat that appeals to seafood lovers and those craving comfort food with a twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain tuna well and flake into a mixing bowl.
- Add well crushed saltine crackers, basil, and black pepper.
- Toss ingredients together well.
- Add beaten egg and stir to combine.
- Mix in undiluted cream of mushroom soup very well.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
- Cube Velveeta cheese into about 1/2-inch cubes.
- Take a portion of the tuna mixture in your hand.
- Place a cube of cheese in the center of the portion.
- Form the mixture around the cheese to enclose it.
- Roll the formed croquette in cracker meal until coated.
- Deep fry in oil until golden brown and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream of mushroom soup. If you want extra flavor, mix in diced onions or bell peppers. Make sure to refrigerate the mixture long enough for the flavors to meld. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute crushed gluten-free crackers for the saltines. These croquettes can also be made with canned salmon for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tuna croquettes with a tangy dipping sauce, like tartar or remoulade, for added flavor. A fresh side salad or coleslaw complements them well, while a side of crispy fries can make for a heartier meal. They also pair beautifully with Smoked Salmon Spread as an appetizer for a seafood-themed gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tuna croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Croquettes contains roughly 1330 calories, with 9g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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?
Yes, fresh tuna can be used, but you'll need to cook it first. Poach or grill the tuna until cooked through, then flake it and mix it with the other ingredients. This adds a fresher flavor and texture to the croquettes.
How can I make these croquettes spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the tuna mixture. You could also use spicy flavored crackers instead of saltines, or sprinkle cayenne pepper into the mixture for an extra kick.
Can I freeze the tuna croquettes?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked tuna croquettes. Once formed, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking 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).