Tuna Melt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Tuna Melt is a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy. The rich tuna salad is complemented by the savory melted cheese and crispy toasted bread, creating a sandwich that’s both comforting and indulgent. The best part? It’s so easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a nostalgic comfort food, this sandwich hits the spot. Plus, you can customize it with different cheeses or add extra ingredients like pickles, onions, or fresh herbs to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or any bread of choice)

• 2 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, American, or mozzarella)

• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the bread)

• Optional add-ins: sliced pickles, red onion slices, or fresh herbs (parsley or dill)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the tuna salad: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

2. Toast the bread: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place the slices, buttered-side down, in the skillet and toast until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Assemble the sandwich: Spread a generous amount of the tuna salad on the unbuttered side of one slice of the toasted bread. Place a slice of cheese on top of the tuna salad. If you like extra toppings, add sliced pickles, onions, or fresh herbs at this point.

4. Grill the sandwich: Place the second slice of toasted bread on top, buttered-side out. Return the sandwich to the skillet and cook over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. You can also cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.

5. Serve: Once the sandwich is crispy and the cheese is melted, remove it from the skillet. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 1 Tuna Melt, but it can easily be doubled or tripled for more sandwiches. Preparation time is around 5-10 minutes, with cooking time taking about 5-6 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 15 minutes!

Variations

• Different cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

• Vegetarian version: Try using mashed avocado in place of mayonnaise for a creamy, dairy-free option.

• Extra crunch: Add sliced pickles, fresh arugula, or red onion to give your tuna melt a crunchy and tangy twist.

• Open-faced version: Make an open-faced tuna melt by toasting the bread and then piling the tuna salad and cheese on top before broiling it in the oven until the cheese melts.

Storage/Reheating

While the Tuna Melt is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftover tuna salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat the sandwich, you can place it in a toaster oven or skillet and cook it over low heat until the cheese melts again and the bread becomes crispy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for the Tuna Melt?

Yes! You can use any type of bread, such as whole wheat, rye, or even a baguette. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the tuna and melted cheese without falling apart.

Can I use canned tuna in oil or water?

Both work perfectly fine! Canned tuna in water will give you a leaner sandwich, while tuna in oil provides a richer, more flavorful base. You can choose based on your preference.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

The tuna salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to toast and assemble the sandwich just before serving to keep the bread crispy.

Can I make this sandwich without cheese?

Of course! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply leave the cheese out or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I get the cheese to melt perfectly?

To get the cheese to melt evenly, cook the sandwich over medium-low heat and cover the pan with a lid for a minute or two. This traps heat inside the sandwich, helping the cheese melt faster.

Conclusion

The Tuna Melt is a classic comfort food that combines the savory goodness of tuna salad with the indulgence of melted cheese and crispy bread. Quick and easy to make, it’s the perfect meal for any time of day. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own creative twists, this sandwich is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and bring a little warmth and comfort to your day. Pair it with a side of chips, a salad, or a warm bowl of soup for the ultimate meal!