Classic Tuna Melt

A golden, crispy sandwich filled with creamy tuna salad and gooey melted cheese — the perfect quick and satisfying snack.

I first made this classic tuna melt for a quick lunch and it became an instant favorite in my household.

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

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

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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.

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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This sandwich has become a staple for family lunches, always bringing smiles to the table.

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.

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Provides cushioned support while cooking, washing dishes, and standing longer during meal preparation.

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This classic tuna melt is perfect for a quick satisfying snack or lunch any day of the week.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best?

White, whole wheat, or sourdough are excellent choices, offering good structure and flavor when toasted.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, cheddar is classic, but Swiss or provolone provide delightful alternatives with distinct flavor profiles.

→ How do I ensure the sandwich is crispy but not burnt?

Cook on medium heat and press gently, flipping after 3–4 minutes, until both sides are golden brown.

→ What adds freshness to the tuna filling?

Finely chopped celery and red onion bring crunch and fresh notes, balanced by a touch of lemon juice.

→ Are there easy variations to try?

Adding sliced tomato or pickles enhances flavor, and swapping cheddar for Swiss alters the taste profile.