Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich

Featured in: Quick Snacks & Starters

This classic tuna melt combines tender tuna salad with sharp cheddar cheese, layered between buttery toasted bread. The sandwich is cooked on a skillet until golden brown, creating a warm, gooey texture that's both comforting and quick to prepare. Freshly chopped celery and red onion add a subtle crunch and brightness, while mustard and lemon juice bring a balanced tang. Ideal for a satisfying snack or light meal, it’s simple yet flavorful, ready in under 20 minutes.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 14:26:00 GMT
Golden, melty cheddar cheese oozes from a delicious Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich, ready to eat! Save
Golden, melty cheddar cheese oozes from a delicious Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich, ready to eat! | opticbaker.com

A golden, crispy sandwich filled with creamy tuna salad and gooey melted cheese — the perfect quick and satisfying snack.

This classic tuna melt has been a favorite snack in my family for years. I remember making it for quick lunches during busy days.

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

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Step 1:
In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 2:
Lay out the bread slices. Spread the tuna salad evenly over two slices. Top each with two slices of cheese.
Step 3:
Cover with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
Step 4:
Butter the outsides of each sandwich (one side per slice).
Step 5:
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Step 6:
Place the sandwiches buttered side down on the skillet. Cook for 3 4 minutes, pressing gently, until golden brown.
Step 7:
Flip and cook the other side for another 3 4 minutes, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 8:
Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve hot.
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Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
Product image
Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.
Check price on Amazon
A close-up of a perfectly toasted Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich, filled with creamy tuna salad. Save
A close-up of a perfectly toasted Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich, filled with creamy tuna salad. | opticbaker.com

This sandwich always brings smiles when shared with family on casual afternoons, creating warm and satisfying moments together.

Variations

Try adding sliced tomato or pickles for extra flavor or swapping cheddar for Swiss or provolone for a different twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your tuna melt with a side of potato chips or a light salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 430 calories, 26 g total fat, 29 g carbohydrates, and 23 g protein.

Enjoy a warm and comforting Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich, a quick and easy American classic. Save
Enjoy a warm and comforting Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich, a quick and easy American classic. | opticbaker.com
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This tuna melt sandwich is a quick, comforting snack perfect any time you want something warm and satisfying.

Cooking Q&A

What type of bread works best?

White, whole wheat, or sourdough bread all work well, offering different textures and flavors to complement the tuna and cheese.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

Yes, Swiss or provolone cheese are excellent alternatives that melt nicely and provide distinct flavors.

How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Be sure to butter the outsides before grilling and cook on medium heat to create a crispy exterior while keeping the filling moist.

What adds crunch to the tuna filling?

Finely chopped celery and red onion add a pleasant crunch and freshness to the creamy tuna mixture.

Are there ways to enhance the flavor?

Adding sliced tomato or pickles can bring extra zest, while a dash of Dijon mustard naturally boosts the tanginess.

Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich

Golden crispy sandwich filled with creamy tuna salad and melted cheddar cheese in minutes.

Time to prepare
10 mins
Time to cook
8 mins
Overall time
18 mins
Recipe by Ella Anderson


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 2 Portions

Dietary details None specified

What You'll Need

Tuna Salad

01 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
02 2 tbsp mayonnaise
03 1 tsp Dijon mustard
04 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
05 1 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
06 1 tsp lemon juice
07 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Sandwich

01 4 slices sandwich bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
02 4 slices cheddar cheese
03 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

How to Make It

Step 01

Prepare Tuna Salad: Combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until well blended.

Step 02

Assemble Sandwiches: Arrange bread slices on a flat surface. Spread tuna salad evenly over two slices, then layer each with two slices of cheddar cheese. Cover with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

Step 03

Butter Bread: Spread softened butter on the outsides of each sandwich, covering one side of each bread slice.

Step 04

Heat Skillet: Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Step 05

Cook Sandwiches - First Side: Place sandwiches buttered-side down on the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, pressing gently, until the bread turns golden brown.

Step 06

Cook Sandwiches - Second Side: Flip sandwiches and cook the other side for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, until golden and cheese is melted.

Step 07

Serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately while hot.

Tools You'll Need

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Nonstick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula

Allergy details

Always review every ingredient for allergens and speak to your healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains fish (tuna), egg (mayonnaise), dairy (cheese, butter), and gluten (bread). Verify labels for potential allergens.

Nutrition details (per serving)

These nutrition details are for your reference—don't substitute for professional medical guidance.
  • Caloric Value: 430
  • Fat content: 26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Proteins: 23 g