Description
Keto tuna melt poppers blend crispy jalapeño shells with creamy, cheesy tuna for a low-carb snack that delights taste buds. Zesty peppers and melted cheese create a mouthwatering bite you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 (5 ounces / 142 grams) can tuna, drained
- 1 large egg
Cheeses:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 12 slices cheddar or provolone cheese (for wrapping)
Seasonings and Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ¼ cup crushed pork rinds (or almond flour)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and preheat the oven to the specified temperature.
- Thoroughly drain the canned tuna, ensuring minimal moisture remains.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna with cream cheese, creating a smooth and consistent mixture.
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, minced onions, and optional jalapeños for an extra kick of flavor.
- Gently incorporate the almond flour, eggs, and seasonings until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Scoop small, uniform portions of the tuna mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each popper.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top of each popper for a crispy, golden-brown finish.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake until the poppers are golden and slightly firm to the touch.
- If using an air fryer, arrange the poppers in the basket and cook until they achieve a crisp exterior and heated through.
- Remove from the oven or air fryer and let the poppers cool for a few minutes to allow them to set.
- Serve warm with a side of low-carb dipping sauce or fresh herbs for added freshness.
Notes
- Swap regular cheese with dairy-free alternatives for those avoiding lactose, ensuring the poppers remain creamy and satisfying.
- Consider adding finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to boost heat and complexity of flavor for spice lovers.
- Drain tuna thoroughly to prevent excess moisture, which could make poppers soggy and compromise their crispy texture.
- Use full-fat cream cheese to maintain the keto-friendly macronutrient profile and enhance rich, indulgent taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 690 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 97 mg