Classic Tuna Melt

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 8 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you’ve ever been in need of a satisfying, comforting meal that’s both quick and easy to make, the Classic Tuna Melt is your answer. This timeless sandwich combines creamy tuna salad with gooey melted cheddar, all tucked between crispy, buttery slices of bread. It’s a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients for Classic Tuna Melt

Tuna is the star here, providing protein and a mild ocean flavor that’s enhanced by the other ingredients. Choose a good quality canned tuna for best results. Mayonnaise adds creaminess and binds the tuna mixture together, while Dijon mustard gives a subtle tanginess that cuts through the richness. Celery and red onion offer a fresh crunch and a hint of sharpness. A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors, bringing everything to life. Don’t forget a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance all these elements. The bread acts as the crispy vehicle for this deliciousness, while the cheddar cheese adds gooey, melty goodness. Finally, butter ensures a golden, crispy exterior.

Tips & Tricks

  • Drain the tuna well to avoid a soggy sandwich.
  • Use a spatula to press down lightly on the sandwich as it cooks for better contact and even browning.
  • Try mixing in some chopped pickles or dill for extra zest.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your tuna melt with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A bowl of tomato soup is a classic companion that complements the sandwich wonderfully, especially on a chilly day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Swiss or mozzarella work well if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or avocado can be used as a healthier alternative.
Can I make this sandwich in advance?
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the tuna mixture ahead of time.

Classic Tuna Melt Recipe Walkthrough

First, grab a medium-sized bowl and toss in your drained canned tuna. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, finely chopped celery, and red onion. Squeeze in the lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well combined and has a nice, even consistency.

Next, spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread. This buttered side is what will create that irresistible crispy crust when grilled. Take four slices and place them butter-side down in a preheated skillet over medium heat.

Now, it’s time to layer on the goodness. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each piece of bread in the skillet. Spoon a generous amount of the tuna mixture over the cheese layer. Top with another slice of cheddar cheese, because more cheese is always a good idea.

Finish off each sandwich with another slice of bread, buttered side up. Let them grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, around 3-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully and cook the other side. Once both sides are crispy and the cheese has melted into gooey perfection, remove from the skillet.

Slice each sandwich in half and serve them warm. Enjoy the moment when the cheese stretches as you pull each half apart!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare: Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses pantry staples: Most ingredients are likely already in your kitchen.
  • Perfect balance of flavors: Creamy, tangy, cheesy goodness.
  • Customizable: Easy to tweak based on what you have or prefer.

Ingredients

2 cans tuna, drained (5 oz each)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
8 slices bread
8 slices cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter, softened

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place four bread slices, buttered side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add a layer of cheddar cheese on each slice in the skillet.
5. Top the cheese with a generous portion of tuna mixture.
6. Add another slice of cheddar cheese on top of the tuna.
7. Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
8. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
9. Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve warm.

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