Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich

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 when I wanted a satisfying lunch that didn't take long to prepare. It quickly became a family favorite!

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

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

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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.

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

Check price on Amazon

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe always brings our family together around the table for a quick and comforting meal.

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

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A simple yet delicious sandwich perfect for any time of day.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of cheese works best for a tuna melt?

Cheddar is classic for melting and flavor, but Swiss or provolone are great alternatives that melt well and complement the tuna salad.

→ Can I use a different bread for this sandwich?

Yes, white, whole wheat, or sourdough bread all work well. Choose one that crisps nicely when buttered and grilled.

→ How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Spreading the tuna salad evenly and cooking the sandwiches buttered side down on a hot skillet helps create a crispy exterior that prevents sogginess.

→ What are some good add-ins for the tuna salad?

Chopped celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice add crunch and tang, enhancing the creamy tuna mix.

→ How long should I grill the sandwich?

Cook each side for 3–4 minutes on medium heat, pressing gently until the bread is golden brown and cheese has melted.