The Best EVER Tuna Melt Recipe

I recently crafted a unique twist on a classic tuna melt sandwich that revitalizes the idea of an everyday lunch. With a hearty blend of tuna, vibrant celery, red onion, and melted cheese layered between golden toasted bread, I discovered a flavor adventure that surprises and delights in every bite.

I never thought a tuna melt could be so exciting until I tried this version inspired by Sarah Titus. I was intrigued by the idea of mixing two cans of tuna in water, drained, with just the right amount of mayo, Dijon mustard, diced celery, and red onion.

Then I added a splash of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out all the flavors. The result is a tuna melt that’s anything but your typical sandwich.

I love that you can make it as a sandwich, toastie, panini, sub, wrap, or even on a baguette of your choice. There’s something about melting slices of cheddar cheese over buttered bread that makes it extra irresistible.

Every bite feels new and versatile, making it a perfect lunch treat or a light dinner option. Give this recipe a try and see why it’s quickly become my all-time favorite tuna melt experience.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love that the flavors in this recipe blend really well together – the tanginess from the Dijon mustard and lemon juice mixed with the creaminess of the mayo just hit the spot every time.
2. I really dig how versatile this tuna melt is. I can change up the bread or cheese based on what I feel like that day, which makes it super fun and easy to mix up my meals.
3. The crispy, golden toasted bread paired with the melted, gooey cheese always reminds me of home cooked comfort food, and that’s something that just feels warm and satisfying.
4. I appreciate that the recipe is simple and not overly complicated, so it’s perfect when I want to whip up a quick lunch or dinner without too much fuss.

This is hands down one of the best tuna melt recipes out there. Sarah Titus made this recipe super easy to follow and its not your regular tuna melt at all. I mean, you can use a sandwich, toastie, panini, sub, wrap, or even a baguette – basically whatever youd like best. Plus, there’s a free printable recipe you can grab that makes it even more convenient when you’re in a hurry. I love that it’s versatile and perfect for any meal, whether it’s lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

• Tuna: Provides lean protein and Omega-3; it’s nutritious and heart healthy.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and rich fat, giving the melt a smooth texture.
• Dijon Mustard: Brings a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness nicely.
• Celery: Offers a great crunch and adds fiber for a bit of health boost.
• Red Onion: Gives a slight sweetness with antioxidants to support your diet.
• Lemon Juice: Injects a natural sour kick that brightens the entire recipe.
• Bread: Supplies essential carbohydrates and a chewy crunch when toasted.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a melt-in-your-mouth goodness with protein and flavor.
• Butter: Promotes a crispy finish and helps unite all the ingredients together.
• Seasonings: Salt and pepper tie all flavors together in every bite.
• Overall: Balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs makes this sandwich satisfyin.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 (5oz) cans tuna in water, drained
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough works great)
• 4 slices cheddar cheese (or cheese you prefer)
• 2 tbsp butter, softened

How to Make this

1. In a bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, diced celery, diced red onion, lemon juice, and a pinch each of salt and pepper until well combined.

2. Preheat a skillet on medium heat while you get your bread and cheese ready.

3. Butter one side of each slice of your favorite bread using the softened butter.

4. On the unbuttered side of two slices, evenly spread the tuna mix.

5. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the tuna, making sure it covers the mixture.

6. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out so the tuna mix is in the middle.

7. Place each sandwich into the preheated skillet and press down lightly.

8. Cook about 3 to 4 minutes on one side until the bread turns golden and crunchy.

9. Flip the sandwich carefully and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until it is nicely browned and the cheese melts.

10. Remove from the skillet, let it cool a moment, slice, and enjoy your best ever tuna melt for lunch or dinner.

Equipment Needed

1. A medium-sized mixing bowl for combining the tuna, mayo, mustard, veggies, and lemon juice
2. A set of measuring cups and spoons for accurate portions
3. A cutting board paired with a sharp knife for dicing the celery and red onion
4. A skillet or frying pan to toast the sandwiches
5. A spatula for pressing down and flipping the sandwich in the skillet
6. A butter knife for spreading the softened butter on the bread slices
7. A slicing knife for cutting the finished sandwich into serving pieces

FAQ

The Best EVER Tuna Melt Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• For the tuna, you could try canned salmon or even crab meat if you’re looking for something new
• If you dont have mayo, greek yogurt works just fine and gives it a lighter feel
• Instead of celery, you might use finely diced carrots which add a sweet crunch
• Swap cheddar cheese for Swiss or provolone to change up the flavor a little bit

Pro Tips

• Make sure your butter is really soft before spreading it on the bread; cold butter can tear the bread and make the sandwich fall apart.
• When you’re heating up the skillet, give it enough time to get hot so the bread crisps up nicely and the cheese melts evenly.
• If you wanna add a little extra zing, try tossing in a tiny pinch of garlic powder or paprika into the tuna mix.
• After flipping the sandwich, cover the skillet with a lid for a minute; this helps the cheese melt even better without over-toasting the bread.