Classic Tuna Melt Recipe

Introduction

The classic tuna melt is a warm, satisfying sandwich that combines creamy tuna salad with melted cheese on toasted bread. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Let’s make this timeless favorite at home.

Ingredients

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices bread
• 2 slices cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and pickle relish.
2. Step 2: Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix well to create the tuna salad.
3. Step 3: Spread butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
4. Step 4: Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Step 5: Divide the tuna salad evenly between the two slices of bread in the skillet.
6. Step 6: Top the tuna salad with a slice of cheese on each sandwich.
7. Step 7: Place the remaining two slices of bread on top of the cheese, butter-side up.
8. Step 8: Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Step 9: Remove from skillet, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding a slice of tomato or a few spinach leaves for extra freshness and nutrition.
• Use whole grain or sourdough bread for added flavor and texture.
• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier tuna salad.
• Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Storage

Store any leftover tuna melt in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Canned tuna is preferred for convenience and texture in this recipe, but if using fresh tuna, cook and cool it first, then flake before mixing with the other ingredients.

What type of cheese melts best for a tuna melt?

Cheddar, Swiss, and provolone are traditional choices because they melt smoothly and complement the tuna flavor well. Feel free to try others like mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.

Classic Tuna Melt Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 139 reviews

A quick and delicious Classic Tuna Melt featuring a savory tuna salad with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and pickle relish, layered with melted cheese and grilled to golden perfection on buttered bread slices. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or easy dinner.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tuna Salad

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon sweet pickle relish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Sandwich

• 4 slices bread
• 2 slices cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions

1. Prepare Tuna Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, onion, and sweet pickle relish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix thoroughly to create a well-blended tuna salad.
2. Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread, ensuring full coverage for a crisp, golden crust when grilled.
3. Assemble Sandwich in Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place two slices of bread, butter-side down, onto the skillet. Evenly divide the tuna salad onto these slices.
4. Add Cheese and Top Bread: Place a slice of your chosen cheese on top of the tuna salad on each slice, then cover with the remaining slices of bread, butter-side up.
5. Grill Sandwich: Cook the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the bread turns golden brown and crispy, and the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
6. Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice in half if desired, and serve immediately for best enjoyment.

Notes

• You can substitute the sweet pickle relish with dill relish for a tangier flavor.
• Use whole grain or sourdough bread for added texture and taste.
• Feel free to add tomato slices or lettuce inside the sandwich for extra freshness.
• To melt cheese faster, cover the skillet with a lid while grilling.
• Use low-fat mayonnaise to reduce calories if desired.

Keywords: tuna melt, tuna sandwich, grilled cheese, easy lunch, classic sandwich, tuna salad