The Best Homemade Tuna Sandwich Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This tuna sandwich is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy days or lazy lunches. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up, even when you’re short on time.
- Creamy and crunchy—the mix of mayo, celery, and onions gives it the perfect texture.
- Customizable—add your favorite extras like pickles, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon for a personal twist.
- Budget-friendly—it uses pantry staples, so you can make it without a trip to the store.
Recipe

Tuna sandwiches are a classic lunchtime favorite, offering a quick and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. This homemade tuna sandwich recipe combines simple ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful filling that pairs perfectly with your choice of bread. Whether you’re packing a lunch or enjoying a casual meal at home, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bread (white, whole wheat, or your preference)
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Sliced tomato (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, red onion, and lemon juice.
- Use a fork to mix the ingredients thoroughly until the tuna is evenly coated and the mixture is creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toast the bread slices lightly if desired.
- Spread the tuna mixture evenly onto two slices of bread.
- Add lettuce leaves and tomato slices if using, then top with the remaining bread slices.
- Cut the sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of both.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or pickle relish for extra flavor.
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Serves 2
Nutrition
This homemade tuna sandwich is a nutritious and satisfying meal. It provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade tuna sandwich with a fresh side salad—it adds a nice crunch and keeps things light. If I’m craving something a bit more indulgent, crispy potato chips are my go-to for that satisfying salty bite. Either way, both options make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the sandwich.
Fresh Side Salad
For a light, crisp pairing with your tuna sandwich, a fresh side salad is the perfect choice. I love mixing leafy greens like spinach, arugula, and romaine for a variety of textures and flavors. Adding cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots gives it a colorful pop. When it comes to dressing options, I keep it simple—a tangy vinaigrette or a creamy ranch both work wonders. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whisk together a quick lemon-dijon dressing. It’s invigorating, easy to make, and balances the richness of the tuna. Trust me, this combo feels like a little bit of sunshine on your plate.
Crispy Potato Chips
If you’re craving something crunchy alongside your tuna sandwich, crispy potato chips are a classic choice that never disappoints. I love how their salty crunch balances the creamy tuna, and they’re so easy to grab straight from the bag. For chip storage, I keep mine in an airtight container to stay fresh longer—no one likes stale chips! My go-to chip brands are Lay’s for classic flavor or Kettle Brand for extra crunch. Sometimes, I’ll even toss in a few flavored ones, like barbecue or sour cream, for fun. Trust me, it’s the perfect combo!