Air Fryer Tuna Cakes

Easy and full of flavor, these air fryer tuna cakes are just what you need for a simple dinner recipe. No messy pans or grease, just pop them in the air fryer and you’ll have dinner ready in under 15 minutes – another easy air fryer recipe!

Cooking tuna cakes has never been easier when using your air fryer. When I used to pan fry tuna cakes, I always had trouble with them sticking to the bottom and tearing apart, or having them overcook on the outside.

Fortunately, I found that when you cook them in the air fryer, they cook perfectly even, no sticking, no overcooking!

Ingredients needed:

• 2 – 12 oz. cans of chunk tuna in water
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 4 Tbsp. mayo
• 2 Tbsp. lemon juice
• 1/2 diced white onion
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. black pepper

How to make air fryer tuna cakes

1. Drain the tuna and place it into a large mixing bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and, using your hands, gently mix to combine. Note: you want to mixture to be reasonably firm. If it seems too squishy, add a little more breadcrumbs to the mix.
2. Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil.
3. Form the mixture into patties and place about four, depending on the size of your air fryer basket, into the basket. Don’t overcrowd them; you’ll want room to be able to flip them easily.
4. Cook at 375 degrees F. for 12 minutes, flipping at the halfway mark. Remove and set aside, then continue this process until all of the patties have been cooked. Serve immediately

Recipe FAQs and Variations

Can you stack food in an air fryer?

You can stack some items, such as french fries or vegetables. However, food cooks better when spaced apart. For best cooking results, the food needs space for the hot air to circulate around it.

Do air fryers cook faster?

Air fryers heat more rapidly than traditional ovens so there’s no waiting on time for pre-heating. Air fryers also tend to cook about three to five times faster than a conventional oven.

Do you have to preheat an air fryer?

No, you do not have to preheat the air fryer when cooking. Simply set the temperature, timer, and start cooking!

Can tuna cakes be frozen?

Yes! Once you shape them into patties, individually wrap them in an airtight cling film and freeze for up to three months. When ready to cook, fully defrost, then proceed with cooking according to the recipe instructions.

Recipe Variations:

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• For an extra crispy crust, spritz the patties after you flip them with olive oil.

Recommended kitchen resources for this recipe.

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What to serve with tuna cakes

• Easy Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes – once the tuna cakes are done, pop these into the air fryer for an easy side dish
• Four-Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese – cheese heaven with this casserole
• Honey Caramelized Brussel Sprouts – a sweet and savory side dish to pair with tuna cakes
• Sautéed Green Beans & Mushrooms – a delicious and savory vegetable side dish