Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich

Featured in: Snackable Bites

This classic melt features a golden, butter-toasted sandwich loaded with a creamy blend of tuna, Dijon mustard, celery, and red onion. Melted cheddar cheese adds a rich, gooey texture while the tangy hint of lemon brightens the flavors. Cooked to a crispy, golden-brown perfection on a skillet, it offers a quick, satisfying option ideal for a snack or light meal. Variations include swapping cheese types or adding pickles for extra zest.

Updated on Sat, 13 Dec 2025 13:26:00 GMT
Golden, bubbly melted cheese cascading from a classic tuna melt sandwich on a plate. Pin It
Golden, bubbly melted cheese cascading from a classic tuna melt sandwich on a plate. | orbitcuisine.com

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

This classic tuna melt sandwich has been a favorite in my family for years; it always brings back warm memories of cozy lunches.

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 34 minutes, pressing gently, until golden brown.
Step 7:
Flip and cook the other side for another 34 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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Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.
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Product image
Bake lasagna, casseroles, and roasted dishes evenly, then serve straight from oven to table.
Check price on Amazon
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| orbitcuisine.com

Making this sandwich always brings my family together; it’s a simple meal that sparks joyful conversations.

Notes

Try adding sliced tomato or pickles for extra flavor. Swap cheddar for Swiss or provolone for a different twist. Serve with a side of potato chips or a light salad.

Required Tools

Mixing bowl, Spoon or spatula, Knife and cutting board, Skillet or griddle, Spatula

Allergen Information

Contains Fish (tuna), egg (mayonnaise), dairy (cheese, butter), gluten (bread). Always check labels for allergen information, especially for mayonnaise and bread.

A crispy tuna melt sandwich, with toasted bread and a generous filling; a comforting American favorite. Pin It
A crispy tuna melt sandwich, with toasted bread and a generous filling; a comforting American favorite. | orbitcuisine.com
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Provides cushioned comfort while cooking, prepping meals, washing dishes, and standing longer in the kitchen.
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This classic tuna melt sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner & guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Recipe Q&A

What type of cheese works best for a tuna melt?

Cheddar and Swiss are popular choices due to their excellent melting qualities and complementary flavors.

How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Butter the bread slices outside and cook on a medium skillet to achieve a crisp surface that prevents sogginess.

Can I prepare the tuna salad ahead of time?

Yes, mixing the tuna with mayonnaise, mustard, and chopped veggies can be done in advance and refrigerated for better flavor melding.

What bread types suit this sandwich?

White, whole wheat, or sourdough bread are ideal choices as they toast well and support the filling evenly.

How can I add extra flavor to the melt?

Adding sliced tomato, pickles, or swapping cheddar with provolone offers delicious variations and depth of flavor.

Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich

Golden crispy sandwich filled with creamy tuna salad and melted cheddar for a tasty snack.

Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
8 mins
Time Needed
18 mins
Created by Benjamin Ward


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Portions 2 Makes

Diet Info None specified

What You Need

Tuna Salad

01 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
02 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
03 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
04 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
05 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
06 1 teaspoon 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 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Steps

Step 01

Prepare Tuna Salad: Combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl; mix thoroughly.

Step 02

Assemble Sandwiches: Arrange bread slices; spread tuna salad evenly over two slices and top each with two slices of cheddar cheese.

Step 03

Complete Sandwich: Cover with remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.

Step 04

Butter Sandwich Exteriors: Spread softened butter on the outside of each bread slice (one side per slice).

Step 05

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

Step 06

Cook First Side: Place sandwiches buttered side down on the skillet; cook 3 to 4 minutes, pressing gently, until golden brown.

Step 07

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

Step 08

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

Tools You'll Need

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

Allergen Details

Review the ingredients list for potential allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional with any concerns.
  • Contains fish (tuna), egg (mayonnaise), dairy (cheese, butter), and gluten (bread)

Nutrition Breakdown (per serving)

Details are for guidance only and shouldn’t replace advice from your doctor.
  • Calories: 430
  • Fats: 26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Proteins: 23 g