There’s something magical about a grilled cheese sandwich, but add some tuna to the mix, and you’ve transformed it into a tuna melt masterpiece. Picture this: gooey cheese melting over perfectly seasoned tuna, all nestled between two golden-brown slices of bread. The aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug, making your stomach growl in anticipation.

Every bite is a delightful balance of creamy, savory goodness that transports you back to childhood lunches and cozy family gatherings. Trust me, this Tuna Melt Recipe will have you reminiscing about those lazy Sundays when nothing was more important than indulging in comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Tuna Melt Recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its harmonious blend of flavors appeals to everyone at the table
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and melted cheese, it looks as good as it tastes
- Enjoy it as a satisfying lunch or a quick dinner option
I still remember the first time I made this recipe for my best friend. Her eyes lit up with joy as she took the first bite; I knew I had struck gold!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Canned Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna packed in water or oil for richer flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand; this creamy ingredient binds everything together beautifully.
Shredded Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for that bold flavor that melts perfectly.
Sliced Bread: Choose your favorite bread—sourdough or whole grain adds a delightful twist.
Dijon Mustard: A hint of mustard elevates the overall taste profile with a zesty kick.
Celery and Onion: These add crunch and sweetness; finely chop them for even distribution.
Butter: Essential for that golden-brown crust; don’t skimp on it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Tuna Melt Recipe
Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a bowl, combine canned tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, onion, and Dijon mustard until evenly mixed. You want it creamy but not overly wet—just enough to hold its shape.
Heat Your Pan: Place a skillet over medium heat while you assemble your sandwiches. This ensures that by the time you’re ready to grill, the pan is hot and ready.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Lay out two slices of bread on a clean surface. Spread half of the tuna mixture on one slice and top with shredded cheese before placing another slice on top.
Add Butter and Grill: Generously spread butter on both sides of each sandwich. Place them in the preheated skillet and cook until golden brown—about 3-4 minutes per side—flipping carefully.
Melt Cheese Perfectly: Once browned, cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes to help melt the cheese thoroughly without burning the bread.
Serve Hot and Enjoy!: Remove from heat and cut diagonally for that perfect presentation. Serve immediately with chips or salad for an extra crunch.
Now that you’ve mastered this Tuna Melt Recipe, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to comfort food! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- Tuna melts are not just a meal; they are a hug in sandwich form
- Keep the ingredients fresh and don’t skimp on the cheese for that gooey, comforting experience
- The sizzle of the pan will make your mouth water before you take a single bite
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing tuna with mayo and seasonings while your bread toasts. This ensures everything is ready to melt together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping out regular cheese for pepper jack. These tweaks can elevate your tuna melt game!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover tuna melts in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in the oven for crispiness, avoiding soggy bread.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfect tuna melt, ensure the tuna is well-drained to avoid sogginess
- Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance flavor
- Always toast the bread before assembling for that unbeatable crunch
There was this one time my friend brought over her famous tuna melt recipe, and we accidentally used expired mayo. Spoiler alert: we all ended up at the nearest pizza joint instead!
FAQ
What is the best type of bread for a tuna melt recipe?
Sourdough or whole grain bread works wonderfully for that perfect crunch and flavor.
Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?
Absolutely! A chicken melt offers a delicious twist on this classic recipe.
How do I prevent my tuna melt from being soggy?
Ensure you drain the tuna well and toast your bread beforehand for maximum crispiness.
Tuna Melt
Tuna melts elevate the classic grilled cheese sandwich with a delicious combination of creamy tuna and gooey cheese, all nestled between crispy bread. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, be it a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch. With its golden crust and savory filling, this tuna melt will become your go-to comfort food that brings back fond memories.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 can (5 oz) high-quality tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 slices sourdough or whole grain bread
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, onion, and Dijon mustard until well mixed.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Spread half of the tuna mixture on one slice of bread, top with shredded cheese, and cover with another slice of bread.
- Generously butter both sides of the sandwich.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese fully.
- Remove from heat, cut diagonally, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.







