Tuna Melt Poppers are tasty little bites filled with creamy tuna and melted cheese. They’re quick to make and perfect for snacks or parties!
I love how these poppers are like mini hugs of flavor. Pair them with a dipping sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser. Just try not to eat them all at once! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Canned tuna is great for this recipe, but you can substitute with canned salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Choose a brand you like, as flavor varies.
Mayonnaise: I prefer using regular mayonnaise for creaminess. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt makes a nice substitute. Just add a bit more seasoning for flavor!
Red Bell Pepper: Fresh red bell pepper adds sweetness and color. If you’re out, any color bell pepper or even pickles can work for a different flavor twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic, but mixing in mozzarella gives a gooey texture that everyone loves. You can also use dairy-free cheese to accommodate dietary needs.
Breadcrumbs: Panko bread crumbs add extra crunch, but regular bread crumbs are fine too. If gluten-free is a must, look for gluten-free bread crumbs or use crushed cornflakes.
How Do I Get the Perfect Golden Brown on My Poppers?
Frying can be tricky, but a few tips can help you achieve that perfect golden brown! First, heat your oil properly. It should shimmer, but not smoke. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of bread or a bit of batter in it. If it bubbles and browns quickly, your oil is ready!
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy poppers.
- Turn them gently with tongs to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- Keep an eye on them! They can go from golden to burned quickly.
Let them rest on paper towels after frying to get rid of excess oil. This way, they stay crispy and delicious!
How to Make Tuna Melt Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Wrapping:
- 8 slices red bell pepper strips (for wrapping)
For Coating:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended)
- 2 eggs, beaten
For Frying and Topping:
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Melted cheese or cheese sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 15 minutes mixing and shaping the poppers, followed by 10-15 minutes frying them until golden brown. Get ready for some deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the drained tuna, mayonnaise, finely chopped red bell pepper, onion (if using), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This filling should be creamy and flavorful!
2. Shape the Poppers:
Take a small spoonful of the tuna mixture and shape it into a small oval or ball about 1.5 inches long. This will be your popper, so make sure it’s not too big!
3. Wrap Them Up:
Wrap each shaped tuna mixture ball with a strip of red bell pepper. This gives your popper a pop of color and extra flavor. Make sure the bell pepper covers the filling well.
4. Coat with Cheese:
Roll each wrapped popper in the shredded cheese, pressing gently to make sure the cheese sticks to the popper. This is what will give you that cheesy goodness when they’re cooked!
5. Prepare for Frying:
Dip each cheese-coated popper into the beaten eggs, then roll it in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will create a crispy outer layer once they are fried!
6. Fry the Poppers:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Fry the poppers in batches, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once golden brown, remove the poppers from the oil and drain them on paper towels. This helps to remove excess oil and keeps them nice and crispy.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Arrange your delicious tuna melt poppers on a serving platter. Drizzle with warm melted cheese or cheese sauce, and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a finishing touch. Serve immediately while hot!
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy tuna-filled poppers as a delicious appetizer or snack! They’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned Tuna?
Yes, you can! If using fresh tuna, make sure to cook it thoroughly before flaking and mixing it into the blend. A simple sear or poach will work well!
Can I Make These Poppers in Advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the poppers up to the frying step and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. When you’re ready to serve, just fry them fresh!
How to Keep Leftovers Fresh?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
