Parmesan crusted tuna patties may be budget friendly, but they are incredibly delicious and filling to boot. Canned tuna fish cakes transform boring tuna from something mundane to a delightful, protein-packed entree that’s crispy on the outside, tender and moist on the inside. The combination of onions and garlic, several seasonings and a coating of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese give these crispy tuna cakes an intense flavor that will make this a favorite meal that you come back to again and again.
In a large bowl, combine the ingredients together; tuna, ¼ cup parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper and egg.
Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions and firmly pack the mixture between the palms and make thick patties.
In a wide bowl, combine the remaining parmesan cheese and panko bread crumbs together. Coat the patties in the panko mixture, making sure it coats evenly on both sides. Repeat the same with the remaining patties.
Meanwhile, preheat the airfryer to 390 degrees F for 5 minutes. Spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the patties into the basket and cook for 6-8 minutes by flipping the patties halfway through.
Once done, garnish the tuna patties with fresh parsley and lemon wedges and serve with a dip.
Notes
Drain the tuna well so the cakes hold together.
Use a measuring cup or an ice cream/cookie scoop to form even-sized tuna patties.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Leave room between each tuna cake so the air can circulate.
Cook air fryer tuna patties in batches if necessary.
For the crispiest tuna cakes, spray the fresh tuna patties with oil at the start of cooking and again about 2 minutes before the end of cooking.
Leave out the breadcrumbs for a gluten free and low carb option.
Spice it up a bit by adding a bit of crushed red pepper, chipotle or sriracha.