If you are looking for a delightful snack or a light meal that bursts with comforting flavors and satisfying textures, the Baked or Air Fryer Tuna Potato Croquettes Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Combining tender, flaky tuna with creamy mashed potatoes, fragrant dill, and a crispy golden crust, these croquettes offer the perfect balance between softness inside and crunch outside. Whether you choose to bake them or use an air fryer, this recipe ensures a healthier twist on a classic dish without compromising on taste. Get ready to enjoy a crispy, flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, containing four distinct layers of ingredients arranged side by side. One layer is light brown and finely shredded, next to a pile of fresh green dill with a feathery texture. Adjacent to the dill are small white chopped pieces, and beside them is a pale yellow dollop of mustard. Finally, a small amount of finely chopped light purple onion completes the mix. The image is bright and clean, capturing the details and colors of each ingredient clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, vibrant flavor, and appealing look of the croquettes. From hearty potatoes to zesty lemon juice, these essentials come together to make an irresistible plate.

2 cans chunk light tuna (5 ounces each): Drained and flaked, this provides that classic savory seafood flavor and texture.
1 large russet potato (10 ounces, peeled and cubed): The creamy base that binds and softens the croquettes.
1/4 cup chopped dill: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish beautifully.
2 tablespoons light mayonnaise: Helps blend the ingredients smoothly while keeping things light.
2 tablespoons minced red onion: Introduces a mild sharpness and crunch contrast.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness perfectly.
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overwhelming.
Black pepper, to taste: Adds just the right amount of warming spice.
Olive oil spray: Ensures a crisp exterior without excess oil.
1 large egg, beaten: Essential for binding the coating to the croquettes.
3/4 cup plain or gluten-free panko breadcrumbs: Creates the signature crunchy crust.
Lemon wedges: Perfect for squeezing on top for an extra zest at serving.
Tartar sauce (optional): A classic dipping sauce that complements the croquettes beautifully.

How to Make Baked or Air Fryer Tuna Potato Croquettes Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Mash the Potatoes

Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes in a small saucepan, cover them with water, and cook over medium-high heat until tender—this should take about 15 to 18 minutes. Once tender, drain thoroughly and mash them well in a large bowl. The creamy potato texture is key to holding the croquettes together.

Step 2: Combine the Tuna Mixture

To the mashed potatoes, add the flaked tuna, chopped dill, light mayonnaise, minced red onion, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix everything gently until well combined. Pop this mixture into the freezer for about 10 minutes—this helps it firm up, making it easier to shape your croquettes.

Step 3: Shape the Croquettes

Once chilled, use your hands to scoop roughly 1/4 cup of the mixture at a time and gently roll it into tight, uniform logs—aim for about eight croquettes. It’s important to be gentle so they hold their shape without falling apart.

Step 4: Coat with Egg and Panko

Set up two shallow bowls: one with the beaten egg and one with the panko breadcrumbs. Dip each croquette first in the egg, ensuring it’s completely coated, then roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. Place the coated croquettes on a board or tray. Give them a light spray of olive oil on both sides—this will help them crisp up nicely when cooked.

Step 5: Cook in Oven or Air Fryer

If you prefer the air fryer, arrange the croquettes in a single layer and cook at 350°F for 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. For the oven method, bake the croquettes at 375°F for 22 to 24 minutes, flipping halfway, until beautifully golden. Both methods yield fantastic crunchy results with minimal mess and fuss.

How to Serve Baked or Air Fryer Tuna Potato Croquettes Recipe

The image shows a close-up of several crispy golden brown croquettes with a crunchy textured crumb outside and a soft, moist filling inside, made up of small pieces of light beige and pinkish ingredients. One of the croquettes is slightly broken open to reveal the filling, which looks creamy with tiny green herb bits scattered inside. The croquettes are placed on a white plate with some green herb sprinkles around, sitting on a white marbled surface. The lighting highlights the crunchy texture and fresh filling clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serving your croquettes with fresh lemon wedges is a game changer—just a quick squeeze over the top intensifies the flavors and cuts through the richness perfectly. A scattering of extra chopped dill or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt can add a lovely finishing touch that makes each bite pop with freshness.

Side Dishes

These croquettes pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the heartiness. Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables also make a wholesome side, keeping this meal light and satisfying. If you want to embrace a more indulgent vibe, creamy coleslaw or a tangy tartar sauce are fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

To wow your guests, try serving these croquettes atop a bed of lemony arugula or alongside a colorful homemade aioli drizzle. You can even slice them and serve as a filling in slider buns with fresh lettuce for a playful lunch twist. The Baked or Air Fryer Tuna Potato Croquettes Recipe lends itself to so many fun presentations that make your table feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 to 3 days. Keeping them well covered prevents the croquettes from drying out while maintaining their crispy texture when reheated properly.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the uncooked, breaded croquettes on a baking sheet and flash freeze until firm, about an hour. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They will keep well for up to 1 month. Cooking from frozen directly helps retain their shape and texture without sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen croquettes in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes or in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 minutes. This helps restore their crispy exterior while warming through the inside perfectly. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tuna for this recipe?

Absolutely! Chunk light tuna is classic due to its mild flavor and flaky texture, but you can also use albacore or even fresh-cooked tuna if you prefer a meatier bite. Just make sure it’s well drained to avoid soggy croquettes.

Is it necessary to use Dijon mustard?

Dijon adds a subtle tang and depth that really lifts the flavor profile, but if you don’t have it on hand, a teaspoon of yellow mustard or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce can work as a flavorful substitute.

Can I make these croquettes gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the plain panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture remains wonderfully crispy, so no sacrifice on crunchiness.

Which method results in crispier croquettes, baking or air frying?

The air fryer tends to produce a slightly crispier and more evenly browned croquette due to the rapid hot air circulation. However, baking also creates a lovely crunch, especially if you flip them halfway.

Can I prepare the croquettes mixture ahead of time?

Definitely. Mixing the ingredients and chilling them in the freezer for 10 minutes tightens the mixture and makes shaping easier. You can also prepare the mixture the day before and refrigerate it overnight for convenience.

Final Thoughts

This Baked or Air Fryer Tuna Potato Croquettes Recipe is genuinely a kitchen winner! It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying whether you’re making a quick snack, a light dinner, or party appetizers. The wonderful contrast of fluffy potato, savory tuna, fresh herbs, and that crispy coating is truly irresistible. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and loved ones to these golden delights—you’ll be coming back for seconds in no time!