Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these tuna and sweetcorn nuggets because they’re wholesome, crispy, and full of flavor. The combination of mashed potato, cauliflower, and sweetcorn makes them light yet satisfying, while the tuna adds that subtle, savory richness. The air fryer gives them a perfect crunch without deep frying, making them a healthier snack or meal. They’re also kid-approved — perfect for lunchboxes, snacks, or easy dinners.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

250g sebago (brushed) or golden delight potatoes, peeled, cut into 3cm pieces
150g cauliflower florets
425g can tuna in oil, drained, flaked
2 x 125g cans corn kernels, drained
80g (1 cup) coarsely grated cheddar
2 eggs
50g (1/3 cup) plain flour
75g (1 1/2 cups) panko breadcrumbs
Sour cream, to serve
Sweet chilli sauce, to serve

Directions

1. I cook the potatoes in a large saucepan of boiling water for about 10 minutes, until tender. I drain them and return them to the pan.

2. While the potatoes cook, I steam the cauliflower florets over the same saucepan for 5–10 minutes, until soft. I transfer the cauliflower to the pan with the potatoes, then mash everything together until smooth. I transfer the mixture to a large bowl and let it cool slightly.

3. Once cooled, I add the flaked tuna, corn, and cheddar to the mashed mixture. I stir until everything is well combined and seasoned.

4. I line two baking trays with baking paper. I shape heaped tablespoons of the mixture into small balls, then flatten them slightly to form nuggets. I place them on one of the trays.

5. I whisk the eggs in a small bowl. I place the flour and panko breadcrumbs in two separate shallow bowls. Working one at a time, I coat each nugget lightly in flour, dip it into the egg, and then press it into the breadcrumbs until fully coated. I arrange the coated nuggets in a single layer on the second tray and spray them lightly with oil.

6. I preheat my air fryer to 200°C and grease the basket lightly with oil. I place a batch of nuggets in the basket, leaving about 3cm between each. I cook them for 12 minutes, turning halfway, until they’re crisp and golden. I repeat with the remaining nuggets.

7. I serve the nuggets warm with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce for dipping.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 25 nuggets.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add finely chopped herbs like parsley or dill to the mixture for extra freshness. When I want to sneak in more veggies, I mix in a little grated zucchini or carrot. I’ve also tried swapping tuna for salmon for a different flavor. If I want to make them gluten-free, I use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. For a touch of spice, I add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to the crumbs before coating.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in the air fryer at 180°C for 4–5 minutes until hot and crispy again. They also freeze beautifully — I freeze them on a tray first, then transfer them to a container or freezer bag. I reheat them straight from frozen in the air fryer for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare and coat the nuggets, then refrigerate them for up to a day before air frying.

Can I bake them instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, I bake them at 200°C for about 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden.

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

You can, but I prefer canned tuna for convenience and consistent texture.

What type of potatoes are best?

Sebago or golden delight potatoes mash well and hold the mixture together nicely.

How do I stop the nuggets from breaking apart?

I handle them gently when coating and make sure the mixture is cool and firm before shaping.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for an easy swap.

Can I skip the cheese?

Yes, but the cheese adds great flavor and helps bind the mixture.

Can I add extra seasoning?

Absolutely. Garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika work wonderfully.

What dipping sauces go well with these nuggets?

I love them with sweet chilli sauce, aioli, or tartar sauce.

Can I freeze cooked nuggets?

Yes, once cooled, I freeze them and reheat in the air fryer until crisp again.

Conclusion

These air fryer tuna and sweetcorn nuggets are crispy, cheesy, and packed with goodness. I love how easy they are to make and how beautifully they cook up in the air fryer. With their golden crust and soft, flavorful filling, they’re perfect for both kids and adults alike. Whether as a snack, lunchbox filler, or light dinner, these little nuggets are always a hit in my kitchen.