Easy Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes Recipe for Quick Dinners

Tuna croquettes represent a clever solution for transforming humble pantry ingredients into something extraordinary.

These crispy golden delights offer a perfect balance between comfort food and gourmet preparation.

Packed with rich flavor and delicate textures, these compact morsels can elevate any casual meal.

Professional chefs and home cooks appreciate their versatility and straightforward technique.

Small yet satisfying, tuna croquettes deliver a delightful crunch that awakens multiple taste sensations.

The combination of fresh herbs, quality seafood, and carefully selected seasonings transforms simple ingredients into a memorable dish.

Each bite promises a harmonious blend of savory notes and crisp exterior that will leave you craving more:

Making Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes Step by Step

Step 1: Combine Tuna Mixture

• Canned tuna
• Diced jalapeños
• Eggs
• Mustard
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Panko breadcrumbs

Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.

Step 2: Shape Croquette Portions

Spread parchment paper on a half-sheet pan. Divide the tuna mixture into 8 equal round portions. Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Create Crispy Coating

Pour remaining panko breadcrumbs into a pie plate. Gently roll each tuna portion in the breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and even coverage on all sides.

Step 4: Heat Cooking Surface

Place a 12-inch saute pan on medium heat. Add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Wait until the oil reaches a shimmering point.

Step 5: Fry Croquettes

Carefully place croquettes in the heated pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Transfer cooked croquettes to a wire rack placed over a paper towel-lined half-sheet pan. Allow to cool for 2-3 minutes before serving hot and crispy.

Tips for Getting Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes Just Right

• Drain Thoroughly: Press canned tuna between paper towels, removing every drop of liquid for crispy, non-soggy croquettes.
• Rest and Develop: Let mixed ingredients mingle for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to marry and breadcrumbs to absorb moisture perfectly.
• Coat Strategically: Roll croquettes gently in panko, ensuring even, light coverage that creates a delicate, golden crunch.
• Heat Wisely: Select a heavy skillet and bring oil to a precise 350°F, guaranteeing rapid, even browning without greasy absorption.
• Cool Patiently: Transfer hot croquettes onto a wire rack, letting excess oil drip away and exterior maintain maximum crispiness for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Safe Storage for Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes

• Vacuum Seal Method: Lock each croquette individually in airtight vacuum-sealed bags to preserve maximum freshness and prevent freezer burn. Press out all excess air before sealing to maintain original texture and flavor integrity.
• Glass Container Method: Store cooled croquettes in glass containers with tight-fitting lids, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Stack carefully to maximize refrigerator space and protect delicate croquette surfaces.
• Flash Freeze Method: Arrange croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they do not touch each other. Freeze for 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for long-term storage without clumping or losing structural integrity.

Different Takes on Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes

• Spicy Seafood Sensation: Replace tuna with crab or shrimp for a luxurious ocean-inspired version. Kick up the heat by adding extra diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for more zest.
• Mediterranean Herb Crunch: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives to transform the croquettes with bright Mediterranean flavors. Swap mustard for Greek yogurt to create a tangy, creamy base.
• Gluten-Free Lite Bites: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko for a celiac-friendly alternative. Add finely grated zucchini or cauliflower for extra nutrition and moisture.
• Smoky Protein Power: Incorporate smoked salmon or add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to give the croquettes a rich, deep flavor profile. Serve with a chipotle aioli for an extra smoky kick.

Closing Remarks on Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes

Alton Brown’s tuna croquettes elevate seafood snacking with bold, zesty flavors that dance across taste buds.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients create crispy exterior crunch while maintaining succulent inner texture.

Smart home chefs can master this simple yet sophisticated recipe within minutes.

Professional-level cooking techniques bring restaurant-quality results directly to kitchen countertops.

Gourmet potential awaits with each golden-brown morsel crafted through precise culinary method.

Grab those panko crumbs, channel your inner chef, and watch how seamlessly deliciousness emerges – share this recipe, drop a comment celebrating seafood magic, and inspire fellow culinary adventurers to explore new taste horizons.

Why Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes Earn Rave Reviews

• Spice Up Your Seafood: These tuna croquettes bring a zesty kick with jalapeños, transforming ordinary canned tuna into an exciting, flavor-packed dish that'll wake up your taste buds.
• Crispy Texture Delight: The panko coating creates an irresistibly crunchy exterior that gives way to a tender, flavorful interior, making each bite a perfect balance of textures.
• Quick and Easy Weeknight Wonder: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe offers a simple yet impressive meal that's perfect for busy home cooks looking for a delicious protein option without spending hours in the kitchen.

What Goes into Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes

• Tuna: Meaty, flaky main protein with a rich seafood flavor, best when using canned or fresh high-quality tuna.
• Eggs: Binding agent that helps hold the croquettes together and adds richness.

• Jalapeños: Fresh, spicy peppers that add a zesty kick and depth to the croquette mixture.
• Mustard: Tangy condiment that boosts overall flavor and provides a subtle sharpness.
• Lemon Juice: Bright, acidic ingredient that cuts through the richness and adds freshness.
• Salt and Pepper: Classic seasoning that enhances and balances the overall taste.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light, crispy Japanese-style breadcrumbs that create a golden, crunchy exterior.
• Olive Oil: Smooth cooking oil that helps achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and adds subtle flavor.

Alton Brown Tuna Croquettes Recipe

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5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Alton Brown’s tuna croquettes blend crispy exterior with tender, flavorful interior. Packed with zesty herbs and perfectly seasoned, these golden-brown delights offer a sophisticated twist on classic seafood that you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 (198 grams / 7 ounces) pouch of albacore tuna, drained well and shredded

Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 scallions, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Seasonings and Coating:

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ¾ cup panko bread crumbs, divided
• Olive oil, for sautéing

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Instructions

1. In a spacious mixing vessel, thoroughly combine flaked tuna, finely chopped jalapeños, whisked eggs, zesty Dijon mustard, freshly squeezed lemon juice, kosher salt, cracked black pepper, and 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) of crisp panko breadcrumbs until the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and carefully portion the tuna mixture into 8 evenly sized, compact rounds. Allow the formed croquettes to rest and slightly firm up for approximately 15 minutes at room temperature.
3. Pour the remaining panko breadcrumbs into a shallow pie dish, creating an even coating layer. Gently roll each tuna round through the breadcrumbs, ensuring complete and uniform coverage on all surfaces.
4. Select a 12-inch (30 centimeters) sauté pan and add enough olive oil to create a thin, even layer across the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a shimmering, translucent state that indicates optimal cooking temperature.
5. Carefully place the breaded tuna croquettes into the hot oil, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown exterior and crispy texture.
6. Transfer the cooked croquettes to a wire cooling rack positioned over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil and allow slight cooling. Serve warm within 2 to 3 minutes of cooking for maximum crispness and flavor.

Notes

• Prep ahead by draining canned tuna completely, squeezing out excess moisture for a firm patty texture.
• Mix ingredients gently to maintain a light, delicate consistency without overworking the mixture.
• Pat tuna mixture into uniform patties using light pressure to prevent dense, tough results.
• Select fresh breadcrumbs or panko for maximum crispiness and golden-brown exterior.
• Maintain medium-high heat when frying to achieve perfect crispy crust without burning.
• Place finished patties on wire rack to preserve crunchiness and prevent soggy bottoms.
• Store leftover patties in airtight container, consuming within 2-3 days for best quality.
• Refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes before forming patties to help them hold together better.
• Use room temperature eggs to ensure smoother binding of ingredients.
• Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor complexity.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 200 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg