Easy Tuna Croquettes Recipe With Panko Breadcrumbs (2024)

By Maike Corbett | Published: April 20, 2020 | Modified: April 20, 2020

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If you're looking for an easy and delicious way to serve tuna, you'll want to try these savory Tuna Croquettes.

Each croquette is crispy on the outside, bursting with flavor on the inside, and perfect with a side of Cucumber Salad or German Potato Salad.

Make your patties by combining chunky tuna, bread crumbs, veggies, eggs, and spices.

These pan-fried until golden-brown patties take no time to make and are perfect for that sack of tuna in your pantry.

Why This Tuna Croquette Recipe Works

SIMPLICITY – With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe turns canned tuna into a gourmet experience.

TEXTURE PLAY – The exterior crunch of Panko breadcrumbs gives way to a tender, moist interior for a delightful contrast in every bite.

BOLD FLAVORS – The combination of Dijon mustard and lemon juice adds a zesty punch that complements the tuna perfectly.

What Are Croquettes?

Tuna croquettes are patties or rolls of white-flaked tuna combined with eggs, bread crumbs, vegetables, herbs, and spices. You can serve the croquettes either pan-fried or baked.

Ingredients

Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.

See Also

Roasted Cauliflower With Pancetta, Olives and Crisp Parmesan RecipeLast Minute Dinner RecipesPasta e Ceci (Italian Pasta and Chickpea Stew) RecipeThe Best Homemade Stuffing | An Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipe!

TUNA - Solid White Albacore tuna in water works great for this recipe.

VEGETABLES - Finely chopped bell pepper and celery.

HERBS & SPICES - Use a combination of fresh parsley (chives or dill works well), lemon juice, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

BINDERS - Two large eggs and bread crumbs. I use traditional bread crumbs, but you can use panko bread crumbs instead.

📌 Save This Tuna Croquette Recipe!

How To Make Tuna Croquettes

Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.

1. WHISK together eggs, mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
2. COMBINE the whisked mixture with drained tuna, chopped bell peppers, celery, parsley, and breadcrumbs.
3. SHAPE the mixture into patties with your hands.
4. FRY the patties in hot oil for 5-8 minutes on each side until golden brown, then serve.

Recipe Success Tips

CONSISTENT PATTY SIZE – Ensure each croquette is the same thickness for even cooking.

HOT PAN – The oil should be hot before adding the patties to achieve that perfect sear.

PATIENCE IS KEY – Resist the urge to flip the croquettes too soon; they need time to develop a crust.

DRAIN EXCESS OIL – After frying, let them rest on a paper towel to remove any excess oil for a cleaner taste.

Serving Suggestions

TANGY DIP – A squeeze of lemon or a dollop of aioli, such as our Chipotle Dip on the side, brightens the dish.

CRISP SALAD – Pair with a cucumber salad or chopped tomato salad to add a light, refreshing contrast.

GOURMET SANDWICH – Slide a croquette into a bun with lettuce and tomato for an upscale tuna burger.

SIDE OF SLAW – A tangy coleslaw complements the richness of the croquettes beautifully.

Leftovers

STORE – Keep the croquettes in an airtight container in the fridge; they'll stay delicious for up to three days.

FREEZE – For longer storage, wrap them individually, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze them. They'll be a convenient treat ready to be reheated anytime.

REHEAT – Warm them in the oven at 350º Fahrenheit until heated through for a just-cooked taste. Avoid the microwave to keep the texture crisp.

More Simple Lunch Recipe Ideas

• Chopped Greek Salad
• Classic Chicken Salad
• Shrimp Salad
• German Frikadellen
• Easy Curry Chicken Salad