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Crispy Buttery Tuna Rice Muffins

crispy buttery tuna rice muffins - featured image

These crispy buttery tuna rice muffins are an easy, flavorful snack with a crunchy exterior and tender, savory center. Perfect for quick bites, lunchboxes, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked white rice (about 400g, day-old rice works best)
  • 1 can (5 oz/140g) canned tuna in oil or water, drained
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (60g) grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked white rice with melted butter. Toss gently to coat every grain.
  3. Drain the canned tuna and flake it into the rice mixture. Mix carefully to maintain some texture.
  4. Stir in grated cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest if using.
  5. Check the mixture consistency; it should hold together when pressed. If too loose, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or more cheese.
  6. Grease a 12-cup muffin tin well with butter or non-stick spray.
  7. Fill each muffin cup with the mixture, packing gently but not too tight. Smooth the tops or leave rustic.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until tops are golden brown and edges are crispy.
  9. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before removing to a wire rack.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Use day-old rice for best texture. Do not overmix to avoid mushy muffins. Grease muffin tin well for easy release and crispy edges. For extra crispiness, place pan on lower oven rack or broil 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely. Can substitute cheddar with parmesan or other cheeses. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter and omit cheese or use dairy-free alternative. Muffins keep well refrigerated for 3 days and freeze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna muffins, crispy tuna rice muffins, buttery tuna snack, easy tuna recipe, savory muffins, quick snack, gluten-free snack