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Air Fryer Low Carb Tuna Melts served with a side salad and ingredients.

Low Carb Tuna Melts

Quick, crunchy, and cheesy tuna melts made easy in an air fryer, perfect for a satisfying low-carb meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Course Dinner, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 1 can 1 (7 oz) can tuna packed in water, well drained Press with fork or use a paper towel to dry it a bit.
  • 1 large 1 large egg This holds everything together so the patties don’t fall apart.

Cheesy Goodness

  • 1 cup 1 heaping cup shredded cheddar cheese Shred yourself for better melting results.

Seasoning

  • Black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne Adjust to taste; skip extra salt due to canned tuna's saltiness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork. Add the egg and the shredded cheddar. Stir until fully combined, ensuring the mixture is slightly wet but packable.
  • Fold in pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne to taste. Form the mixture into small, tightly packed patties about 2 inches across.

Cooking

  • Place patties in a single layer on the bottom of your air fryer basket and air fry at 390°F for 12–16 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden edges and firm centers are achieved.

Serving

  • Let them cool for a few minutes before serving plain, or with your favorite low-carb condiment such as Ranch or tartar sauce.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes. For freezing, flash-freeze on a baking sheet and transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 360°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
Keyword Air Fryer, Cheesy Snack, Easy Dinner, Low Carb, Tuna Melt