Tuna Melt Poppers are bite-sized treats packed with flavor! They combine tasty tuna mixed with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping, all baked to perfection.
These little snacks are super fun to make and eat. I love serving them at parties; everyone gets a little pop of cheesy goodness! Plus, they disappear in no time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Canned tuna is the star here. I usually grab solid white tuna for its nice texture. If you have dietary restrictions, try chickpeas for a vegetarian option; just mash them up and mix as you would with tuna.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the poppers. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead. It gives a nice tangy flavor while keeping them moist.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its great flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap it for pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko gives a delicious crunch. If you don’t have any, regular breadcrumbs work too, though they won’t be quite as crispy. You could also use crushed crackers for a different take!
How Do I Get My Poppers to Be Perfectly Crunchy?
Getting that perfect crunch is key for these Tuna Melt Poppers! Here’s how to ensure they’re just right:
- First, make sure to coat your poppers thoroughly with panko. The more even the coating, the better the crunch!
- Frying in a skillet gives an instant crispy texture, but baking them is healthier. If baking, make sure to spray with cooking oil to help crisp them up.
- If you’re frying, don’t overcrowd the pan; you want room for the air to circulate. Fry in batches if needed.
- Finally, placing them under the broiler at the end melts the cheese and adds that lovely toasty top layer!
Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
How to Make Tuna Melt Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into small sections for stuffing
- Fresh chopped chives or parsley for garnish
- Cooking oil spray or a small amount of oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 20 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have these delicious tuna melt poppers ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your poppers.
2. Mix the Tuna Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained and flaked tuna with mayonnaise, chopped celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Add Cheese
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the tuna mixture. This will add a delicious cheesiness to your poppers!
4. Shape the Popper Mixture
Using your hands, shape the tuna mixture into small, popper-sized oval or ball shapes that are easy to handle.
5. Prepare for Coating
In a shallow bowl, beat the egg until it’s smooth. In another shallow bowl, place the panko bread crumbs. You’ll use these to coat your tuna poppers for extra crunch.
6. Coat the Poppers
Take each tuna popper, dip it into the beaten egg, and then roll it in the panko bread crumbs, making sure it’s fully coated. This step is what gives them that delicious crispy texture.
7. Cook the Poppers
Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the poppers in batches, cooking until they are golden brown on all sides—about 2-3 minutes per side. If you prefer baking, place them on a baking sheet with cooking spray and bake for about 15-20 minutes until they’re golden.
8. Stuffing the Poppers
Now, take each golden brown popper and place it onto a small section of the red bell pepper. This adds a nice color and crunch.
9. Add More Cheese
Top each stuffed popper with a little more shredded cheddar cheese. Who doesn’t love extra cheese?
10. Broil for Perfect Melting
Transfer the poppers to the oven and place them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
11. Garnish and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, remove the poppers and garnish with fresh chopped chives or parsley for a pop of freshness.
12. Enjoy!
Serve warm as an appetizer or a fun snack. Enjoy your delicious Tuna Melt Poppers with that delightful crunch of the red pepper and the creamy, cheesy filling!
Can I Use Different Types of Fish for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While tuna is traditional, you can substitute it with canned salmon or even cooked shrimp for a different flavor. Just make sure to chop the substitute ingredients as needed for a similar texture.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, shape and coat the poppers as directed. They might need a minute or two more in the oven since they’ll start off cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quicker option.
What Should I Serve with Tuna Melt Poppers?
These poppers pair wonderfully with a side salad or a dipping sauce like ranch or tartar sauce. You can also serve them with some crispy potato wedges for a fun meal!
