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Tuna & Potato Crocchette

A step-by-step instruction for preparing tuna and potato crocchette
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: crocchette
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Pot for cooking potatoes
  • Small Skillet
  • large bowl

Ingredients

  • 2 medium russet potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 3.5 ounce jar Tonnino Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil drained and flaked
  • 1 small onion finely minced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan-Reggiano cheese
  • 1 large egg beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • olive oil for frying or vegetable oil

Instructions

Cook the Potatoes

  • Place potato chunks in a pot and cover with cold salted water.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
  • Drain well and return to the pot. Mash until smooth, then let cool slightly.

Prepare the Flavor Base

  • In a small skillet, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté minced onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Mix the Crocchette Filling

  • In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, flaked tuna, sautéed onion and garlic, parsley, lemon zest, crushed red pepper (if using), Parmigiano-Reggiano, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix gently until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Shape the Crocchette

  • Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape into small cylinders or oval patties.
  • Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Bread the Crocchette

  • Beat the egg in a shallow bowl. Place breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
  • Dip each crocchetta first in the egg, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
  • Place back on the tray, and repeat with all crocchette.

Fry Until Golden

  • Heat 1/4 inch of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Fry crocchette in batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Serve

  • Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley and a wedge of lemon.
  • Optional: drizzle lightly with extra-virgin olive oil, or serve with a garlic aioli for dipping.

Notes

Tips

For a lighter version, bake the crocchette at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, instead of frying.
Mix a teaspoon of capers or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for an extra punch.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture.