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 needed a fast lunch that felt comforting and satisfying. It quickly became a 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

Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.

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Prepare Tuna Salad:

In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Assemble Sandwiches:

Lay out the bread slices. Spread the tuna salad evenly over two slices. Top each with two slices of cheese.

Complete Sandwich:

Cover with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

Butter Sandwich:

Butter the outsides of each sandwich (one side per slice).

Heat Skillet:

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Cook First Side:

Place the sandwiches buttered side down on the skillet. Cook for 3 4 minutes pressing gently until golden brown.

Cook Other Side:

Flip and cook the other side for another 3 4 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Serve:

Remove from skillet slice in half and serve hot.

Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.

Check price on Amazon

Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.

Check price on Amazon

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My family always gathers around when I make these sandwiches, it brings back cozy lunch memories.

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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Stir sauces, sauté vegetables, and serve meals gently while adding a charming touch to everyday cooking.

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This classic tuna melt is the perfect mix of creamy and crunchy. Enjoy it any time you need a quick satisfying meal.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

White, whole wheat, or sourdough bread all work well, providing a sturdy base that crisps nicely when toasted.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Swiss or provolone cheese are excellent alternatives that melt beautifully and add unique flavors.

→ How do I ensure the sandwich is crispy?

Butter the outside of each bread slice before toasting on a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.

→ Are there suggested add-ons for extra flavor?

Try adding sliced tomato or pickles inside the sandwich to introduce fresh, tangy notes.

→ What’s the best way to mix the tuna filling?

Combine drained tuna with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a creamy, flavorful filling.