Crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy on the inside, this tuna melt sandwich is a timeless comfort food. It comes together quickly with simple pantry ingredients, making it ideal for a satisfying lunch or an easy light dinner when you want something warm and cheesy without much effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tuna melt sandwich is fast, filling, and full of flavor. The contrast between golden toasted bread and the rich, savory tuna filling makes every bite comforting. It’s also easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, uses affordable ingredients, and doesn’t require any special cooking skills. Perfect for busy days, it’s a reliable classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 slices bread
1 can (5 oz / 140 g) tuna, drained well
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter, softened
Directions
In a medium bowl, add the drained tuna and break it up with a fork. Add the mayonnaise, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Lightly butter one side of each slice of bread.
Place one slice of bread in the skillet, buttered side down. Spread the tuna mixture evenly on top. Cover with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing up.
Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottom slice is golden brown and crisp. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, pressing gently with a spatula, until the second side is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the skillet, let it rest for a minute, then slice and serve warm.
You can add sliced tomatoes inside the sandwich for extra freshness. A small amount of sweet corn mixed into the tuna adds texture and mild sweetness. For a slightly spicy version, stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a teaspoon of mild mustard. Whole wheat or sourdough bread can be used instead of regular sandwich bread for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh. If needed, the tuna filling can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over low heat to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soft and chewy.
FAQs
Can I make the tuna mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
What type of cheese works best for a tuna melt?
Cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices, but any good melting cheese will work well.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil can be used for toasting the bread, though butter gives a richer flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it’s mild, creamy, and generally loved by kids.
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna can be used, but canned tuna is quicker and more convenient.
How do I prevent the sandwich from burning?
Cook on medium to medium-low heat and flip carefully once the bread is golden.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or celery can be added for extra crunch.
What bread works best for a tuna melt?
Regular sandwich bread, whole wheat, or sourdough all work well.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
You can substitute mayonnaise with plain yogurt for a lighter option.
Is this sandwich filling enough for dinner?
Yes, when paired with a simple salad or soup, it makes a satisfying light dinner.
Conclusion
This tuna melt sandwich is a simple yet comforting recipe that proves classic dishes never go out of style. With its crispy bread, creamy filling, and melted cheese, it’s a go-to option whenever you need a quick, warm, and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.
A classic tuna melt sandwich featuring golden toasted bread filled with creamy tuna, melted cheese, and green onions. Quick to prepare and full of comforting flavor.
Total Time:18 minutes
Yield:1 sandwich
Ingredients
2 slices bread
1 can (5 oz / 140 g) tuna, drained well
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅛ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter, softened
Instructions
In a bowl, break up the drained tuna with a fork. Add mayonnaise, shredded cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
Butter one side of each bread slice.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, into the skillet.
Spread the tuna mixture evenly over the bread in the skillet. Top with the second bread slice, buttered side up.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes until the cheese is melted and both sides are golden brown.
Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
Best enjoyed fresh, but tuna filling can be made ahead and stored for up to 2 days.
Use whole wheat or sourdough for a flavor variation.
Try adding tomato slices or a pinch of chili flakes for extra taste.
Cook over medium heat to avoid burning and ensure even melting.
