Save A golden, crispy sandwich filled with creamy tuna salad and gooey melted cheese — the perfect quick and satisfying snack.
This is my go-to comfort food when I want something warm and easy to make in minutes.
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.
Pin it Sharing this tuna melt with my family always brings nostalgic memories of quick lunches and happy smiles.
Variations
Try adding sliced tomato or pickles for extra flavor, or swap cheddar for Swiss or provolone for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of potato chips or a light salad to complete the meal.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (tuna), egg (mayonnaise), dairy (cheese, butter), and gluten (bread). Always check labels for allergen information, especially for mayonnaise and bread.
Pin it
This classic tuna melt is sure to become a staple in your quick meal rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of cheese works best for this sandwich?
Cheddar is classic for its sharp, creamy melt, but Swiss or provolone can add a different twist while still melting well.
- → Can I use different bread types?
Yes, white, whole wheat, or sourdough bread are all great options, each adding a unique texture and flavor.
- → How do I achieve a crispy exterior without burning?
Use medium heat on a nonstick skillet, butter the bread lightly, and cook each side for 3–4 minutes while pressing gently.
- → Are there easy variations to enhance flavor?
Add sliced tomato or pickles inside for added freshness and tang, or switch up the cheese type for different tastes.
- → What side dishes complement this sandwich?
Potato chips or a fresh light salad pair nicely, balancing the richness of the tuna and melted cheese.