Save to Pinterest A golden, crispy sandwich filled with creamy tuna salad and gooey melted cheese — the perfect quick and satisfying snack.
I first served this classic tuna melt on a chilly afternoon and it quickly became a family favorite for its comforting taste and simplicity.
Ingredients
- Tuna Salad: 1 can (5 oz / 140 g) tuna, drained, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 stalk celery, finely chopped, 1 tbsp red onion, finely chopped, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sandwich: 4 slices sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough), 4 slices cheddar cheese (or Swiss), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Step 2:
- Lay out the bread slices. Spread the tuna salad evenly over two slices. Top each with two slices of cheese.
- Step 3:
- Cover with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
- Step 4:
- Butter the outsides of each sandwich (one side per slice).
- Step 5:
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Step 6:
- Place the sandwiches buttered side down on the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes, pressing gently, until golden brown.
- Step 7:
- Flip and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 8:
- Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve hot.
Save to Pinterest My family always gathers around the kitchen table to enjoy these sandwiches together, making it a cherished weekend treat.
Notes
Try adding sliced tomato or pickles for extra flavor. Swap cheddar for Swiss or provolone for a different twist. Serve with a side of potato chips or a light salad.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, spoon or spatula, knife and cutting board, skillet or griddle, spatula
Allergen Information
Contains fish (tuna), egg (mayonnaise), dairy (cheese, butter), gluten (bread). Always check labels for allergen information, especially for mayonnaise and bread.
Save to Pinterest This classic tuna melt is a quick, comforting snack that never fails to satisfy.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
White, whole wheat, or sourdough bread all work well, providing sturdy texture and great flavor when grilled.
- → How can I make the tuna filling more flavorful?
Incorporate finely chopped celery and red onion for crunch, and add Dijon mustard and lemon juice for brightness and tang.
- → What cheeses pair well with tuna for melting?
Cheddar is classic, but Swiss or provolone also melt nicely and complement the savory tuna filling.
- → How should I cook the sandwich to get a crispy golden crust?
Butter the outside of the bread slices and grill on medium heat, pressing gently until golden brown on both sides and cheese melts.
- → Can I customize this sandwich with additional toppings?
Yes, try adding sliced tomato or pickles for extra flavor and texture to enhance the sandwich's complexity.