Tuna Melt Sandwich
The ultimate comfort food classic. Flaky tuna salad mixed with creamy mayo and a hint of tang, sandwiched with sharp cheddar cheese and grilled until golden and gooey. A perfect quick lunch or dinner.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Tuna Salad
- b.In a medium bowl, add the well-drained canned tuna. Use a fork to flake it into fine pieces.
- c.Add the mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
- d.Stir everything together until it's well combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Assemble the Sandwiches
- b.Lay out the 8 slices of bread on a clean work surface.
- c.Spread the softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will be the outside of the sandwich.
- d.Flip 4 of the bread slices over so the buttered side is down.
- e.On the unbuttered side of these 4 slices, place one slice of cheddar cheese.
- f.Divide the tuna salad mixture evenly among the 4 slices, spreading it over the cheese layer.
- g.Place a second slice of cheddar cheese on top of the tuna salad.
- h.Top with the remaining 4 slices of bread, ensuring the buttered side is facing up.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Grill the Sandwiches
- b.Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes.
- c.Carefully place 1 or 2 sandwiches in the hot skillet, depending on its size. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- d.Grill for 3-5 minutes on the first side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- e.Flip the sandwiches carefully with a spatula and grill for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, until the second side is also golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- f.Remove from the skillet and repeat the process with the remaining sandwiches.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Let the grilled sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly.
- c.Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately.
- d.Enjoy with a side of pickles, potato chips, or a simple green salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor and texture, use tuna packed in oil and drain it well. If using tuna in water, press it firmly to remove all excess liquid to prevent a soggy sandwich.
- 2Use a sturdy, thick-cut bread like sourdough, rye, or brioche that can hold the filling without becoming limp.
- 3For an extra tangy and even crust, try spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of butter before grilling.
- 4Cook on medium to medium-low heat. This allows the heat to penetrate the sandwich and melt the cheese completely without burning the bread.
- 5Press the sandwich down gently with a spatula as it cooks to help it heat evenly and create a more compact, delicious melt.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Tuna Melt
Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or a finely chopped jalapeño to the tuna salad mixture for a spicy kick.
Gourmet Tuna MeltGourmet Tuna Melt
Use a different cheese like Gruyère, Provolone, or Swiss. Add ingredients like capers, chopped dill, or a slice of tomato to the filling.
Avocado Tuna MeltAvocado Tuna Melt
Replace half of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a healthier, creamy alternative. Add a layer of sliced avocado inside the sandwich.
Open Faced Tuna MeltOpen-Faced Tuna Melt
Toast a single slice of bread, top it with the tuna salad and a slice of cheese, then broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Tuna is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Canned tuna is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which are known to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy heart.
Provides Calcium for Bone Health
The cheddar cheese in this sandwich is a good source of calcium, a vital mineral for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as proper muscle and nerve function.
Frequently asked questions
A single Tuna Melt Sandwich made according to this recipe contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the specific type of bread, cheese, and mayonnaise used.