Tuna Melt Sandwich

This easy classic tuna melt sandwich combines creamy tuna salad, buttery toasted bread, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh tomato for a warm and satisfying meal.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 12

Total Time 17

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Comfort Food, Dinner, Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the tuna salad

2 cans cans (5 oz each, 10 oz total) tuna, well drained Choose good-quality canned tuna that is well drained.
1/3 cup mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
2 tsp Dijon mustard Yellow mustard can be substituted if desired.
1 stalk celery, finely diced Red onion or scallions can be used instead for a sharper crunch.
2 tbsp Juice of 1 lemon Adds acidity to balance flavors.
1 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste.
1/2 tsp black pepper Adjust to taste.
2 tsp Old Bay seasoning Can be swapped with celery salt or a seafood seasoning blend.

For the sandwiches

8 slices thick bread (sourdough or Texas toast) Can substitute with whole wheat bread or rye bread.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened Butter is spread on one side of the bread.
8 slices cheddar cheese Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella can be used instead.
4 slices ripe tomato Thinly sliced to prevent sogginess.
1 tbsp vegetable oil, for the pan

Method

Preparation

Mix the drained tuna with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and Old Bay seasoning in a bowl until well combined.
Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.

Assembly

Place 4 bread slices butter-side down on a surface and layer with cheddar cheese, tuna salad, tomato, and another slice of cheese. Close with remaining bread, butter-side up.

Cooking

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cook sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.

Serving

Let the sandwiches rest for 1 minute. Slice in half and serve hot.

Notes

For the best texture, do not store fully assembled sandwiches; keep tuna salad separate. You can freeze tuna salad for up to 1 month, but not the assembled sandwich.