Easy Air Fryer Tuna Patties

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these Easy Air Fryer Tuna Patties are a quick, flavorful meal you can make in minutes. Packed with simple ingredients and cooked to golden perfection, they’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or a protein-packed snack.

If you’re looking for a quick, protein-packed meal that’s both flavorful and fuss-free, these Easy Air Fryer Tuna Patties are exactly what you need.

With a crispy golden exterior and a tender, flavorful inside, they’re a simple way to turn canned tuna into a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Made with just a handful of pantry staples and cooked in the air fryer for minimal oil and maximum crispiness, these patties are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you want a healthy, delicious bite in minutes.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Ready in minutes: Perfect for busy days when you don’t want takeout
• Budget-friendly: Canned tuna keeps this meal easy on your wallet
• Crispy without deep frying: All the crunch, way less oil
• Great for meal prep: Make a batch and enjoy all week
• Versatile: Serve them on a salad, sandwich, or with your favorite dip

If you are looking for more seafood recipes, some of my favorites are AIR FRYER FLOUNDER FISH, AIR FRYER FISH & CHIPS, and AIR FRYER BACON WRAPPED SHRIMP. 

Ingredients Needed

• Canned Tuna: Any brand will work

• Egg: The egg will bind the tuna patty together. 
• Prepared Mustard: Yellow or honey Dijon mustard.
• Breadcrumbs: Reguarl breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, crushed pork rinds, or gluten-free breadcrumbs. 
• Seasonings: Salt, Pepper, and Your Favorite Spices.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture crisp and tender. Double-check all seasonings and sauces to be sure they’re certified gluten-free before mixing them in.
• Keto Version: Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to keep the carb count low while maintaining a crispy bite. Use full-fat mayo and add a little extra cheese for richer flavor without adding carbs.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Tuna Patties

Step One: Combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, finely chopped onions, diced celery, mayonnaise, mustard, fresh herbs, and your chosen seasonings in a large mixing bowl.  Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step Two: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer temperature to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Step Three: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray, brush with olive oil.

Step Four: Place uncooked tuna patties into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are spaced apart and not overcrowded. You might need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step Five: Air fry the tuna patties at 375 degrees F (190°C) and set cook time for 10-12 minutes; flipping halfway through the cooking process, remove when golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C). For added flavor, a light brush of melted butter can be added.

Step Six: Once cooked, carefully remove the tuna fish cakes from the air fryer and place them on a serving plate. Serve hot with your favorite toppings. 

Easy Air Fryer Tuna Patties Recipe Tips

• Drain the tuna really well: For extra liquid = mushy patties
• Don’t skip the binder: Eggs and breadcrumbs keep everything together
• Chop veggies finely: So the mixture holds and cooks evenly
• Let the mix rest for 5 minutes before shaping so it firms up
• Use damp hands when forming patties to prevent sticking
• Flatten slightly for even cooking and crisp edges
• Spray the basket lightly so nothing sticks
• Flip halfway through for even color and crunch
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give them space to crisp
• Serve hot for the best texture (these are not “sit around” patties)

Storing, Freezing and Reheating Instructions 

• Storing: Let the tuna patties cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For best texture, stack them with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: To freeze, place cooled patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1–2 hours until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the air fryer at 370°F for 4–6 minutes from the fridge or 8–10 minutes from frozen. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Skip the microwave unless soft and sad is the texture goal.

Easy Air Fryer Tuna Patties Recipe Faqs

Do I need to spray the air fryer basket? Yes, absolutely! Lightly spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray (or brushing the patties with oil) is essential. This prevents the lean patties from sticking and helps ensure a golden, crispy exterior.

How do I prevent the tuna patties from falling apart? Ensure your binding agent (mayonnaise, mustard, egg, etc.) is adequate, and the tuna is well-drained. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when pressed. Chilling the patties for 15 minutes before cooking also helps them set.

Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna? Yes, you can easily swap canned tuna for canned salmon. Just make sure to drain the salmon thoroughly and check the moisture level of your mixture before forming the patties.

How long does it take to cook tuna patties in the air fryer? Tuna patties typically take 6-7 minutes at 400 degrees F, flipping halfway through. Cooking time may vary slightly based on the size and thickness of your patties.

Can I freeze air fryer tuna patties? Yes! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen, adding about 5–8 minutes to the cooking time.

What is the best way to get them crispy without breadcrumbs? If you are making them low-carb or Keto, ensure the patties are patted dry before cooking.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Crispy Bacon
• Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
• Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
• Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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