The Best Homemade Tuna Melt Sandwich Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Tuna Melt Sandwich recipe is a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days or cozy lunches. You’ll love how easy it is to make with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Creamy and flavorful filling, thanks to the mix of tuna, mayo, and a hint of mustard for a tasty bite.
- Perfectly melted cheese that gets all gooey and golden under the broiler, adding a comforting touch.
- Customizable to your taste, whether you want to add pickles, onions, or a dash of hot sauce for extra zing.
Recipe

A tuna melt sandwich is a classic comfort food that combines the rich flavors of tuna salad with melted cheese, all toasted to perfection. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be customized to your taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your choice)
- 1 (5 oz) can of tuna, drained
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp diced celery (optional)
- 1 tbsp diced red onion (optional)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 slices of cheddar cheese (or American, Swiss, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp butter (softened)
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the tuna mixture evenly on one slice of bread.
- Place the cheese slices on top of the tuna mixture.
- Top with the second slice of bread.
- Butter the outer sides of the sandwich lightly.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from heat, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or a splash of lemon juice to the tuna mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier sandwich, use a panini press instead of a skillet.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or griddle
- Spatula
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 8 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 1 sandwich
Nutrition
This tuna melt sandwich is a classic comfort food, packed with protein and flavor. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbs | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 25g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my tuna melt with something crispy, like kettle chips or a simple side salad, to balance the gooey cheese. A cold glass of lemonade or iced tea works wonders, cutting through the richness with a revitalizing sip. Trust me, these combos make the meal feel complete without any extra fuss.
Crispy Side Dishes
When pairing your tuna melt sandwich with sides, you’ll want something crispy to balance the creamy richness of the dish. I love serving homemade potato chips or fries, lightly salted with a hint of paprika for a smoky kick. Another favorite is crispy onion rings with a golden, crunchy coating—they’re a crowd-pleaser every time. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss kale or Brussels sprouts in olive oil, roast them until crisp, and sprinkle with Parmesan. These sides add texture and freshness, making each bite of your tuna melt feel complete. Trust me, the crunch makes all the difference!
Refreshing Beverage Pairings
Ever wonder what drink complements a hearty tuna melt sandwich best? I love pairing mine with something crisp to cut through the richness. A cold glass of lemonade, with its tangy sweetness, balances the savory flavors perfectly. If you prefer something fizzy, try a ginger ale—its spicy kick adds a fun twist. For a grown-up option, an iced tea with a squeeze of lime keeps things light and invigorating. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a creamy milkshake makes it feel like a diner-style treat. Whatever you choose, the right drink turns a simple meal into something special.