Tuna Melt : This tuna melt with its crispy bread, melted cheese, and flavorful tuna filling, this sandwich is a classic for a quick sandwich.
What Is a Tuna Melt?
A Tuna Melt is a warm, grilled sandwich that combines a flavorful tuna salad, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bread. Typically served as an open-faced sandwich or on a sliced baguette, the Tuna Melt offers a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures. It’s versatile and easy to customize, which makes it a favorite lunch or dinner option.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Tuna Melt
- Choose the Right Cheese: Cheddar gives a sharp contrast to the mild tuna, while Swiss or Gouda offers a nuttier flavor.
- Toast for Texture: Lightly toast the bread before adding the tuna mixture to keep it from becoming soggy.
- Use a Panini Press: If you have one, a panini press can be perfect for making Tuna Melts. It ensures even cooking and a super crispy crust.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Chopped dill pickles, capers, or diced bell peppers can add a unique flavor twist.
- Low and Slow: Cooking over medium-low heat ensures the cheese melts completely without burning the bread.
Tuna Melt Variations
While the classic Tuna Melt is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to switch it up:
Mediterranean Tuna Melt:
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to the tuna salad.
- Use pita bread or focaccia for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy Tuna Melt:
- Mix in diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, and pepper jack cheese for a kick.
- Serve on sourdough or a rustic Italian roll.
Avocado Tuna Melt:
- Replace half the mayonnaise with mashed avocado for added creaminess and a nutrient boost.
- Top with thin avocado slices for extra richness.
Low-Carb Tuna Melt:
- For a bread-free version, serve the tuna mixture in halved bell peppers or on a bed of lettuce with melted cheese on top.
Caprese Tuna Melt:
- Add fresh basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese for a Caprese-inspired sandwich.
How to Serve a Tuna Melt
A Tuna Melt is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make it even more satisfying:
- Classic Side Dishes: Serve with a pickle spear, potato chips, or French fries.
- Light Salads: A simple side salad with arugula or a tomato cucumber salad complements the richness of the melt.
- Soups: Pair with tomato soup, minestrone, or clam chowder for a comforting lunch or dinner.
- Dipping Sauce: Add a small side of spicy mustard, aioli, or sriracha for dipping to give your Tuna Melt extra flavor.
How to Store and Reheat Tuna Melt
If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep your Tuna Melt fresh and tasty:
- Refrigerate: Store any remaining Tuna Melt in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: To retain its crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread soggy.
- Freezing: You can freeze the tuna salad (without the bread) for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before assembling and grilling a fresh Tuna Melt.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Make a Tuna Melt Without Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheese is a classic part of a Tuna Melt, you can skip it for a lighter version. Add extra veggies or spices to the tuna mixture for flavor.
What Is the Best Tuna for a Tuna Melt?
Albacore tuna is preferred for its mild flavor and firm texture, but chunk light tuna works well if you enjoy a stronger flavor.
Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned?
Yes! Poach or grill fresh tuna and flake it before mixing with the other ingredients. This adds a gourmet touch to the sandwich.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or even hummus can substitute for mayonnaise. Each will bring a different flavor, so feel free to experiment.
Can I Make This Sandwich in an Oven or Toaster Oven?
Yes! For an open-faced Tuna Melt, toast the bread first, add the tuna salad and cheese, then broil in an oven or toaster oven until the cheese melts.
Tuna Melt
When it comes to comfort food, the Tuna Melt ranks high on the list. With its crispy bread, melted cheese, and flavorful tuna filling, this sandwich is a beloved classic.
Ingredients
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – add if you like a little heat
- 2 (6-oz.) cans tuna – drained and flaked
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise – keeps it creamy
- Juice of 1/2 lemon – for a bright, zesty kick
- 2 dill pickles, finely chopped – for that tangy twist
- 1 rib celery, finely chopped – adds crunch
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper – to taste
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped – some sharpness and color
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – fresh, herby finish
- 1 tomato, sliced – juicy and fresh
- 8 slices sourdough bread (or your favorite sturdy bread)
- 8 slices cheddar cheese – the melt factor!
- 4 Tbsp butter – for that golden crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayo, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add drained tuna, breaking it up with a fork, then mix in celery, pickles, red onion, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place about 1/2 cup of tuna salad on the unbuttered side, add 2-3 slices of tomato, and top with 2 slices of cheddar. Cap it off with another slice of bread, buttered side facing up.
- Place sandwiches on a large baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the bread is golden. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 879Total Fat 47gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 104mgSodium 1618mgCarbohydrates 81gFiber 4gSugar 16gProtein 34g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
The Tuna Melt is a timeless, easy-to-make sandwich that lends itself to countless variations. Whether you’re keeping it classic or experimenting with Mediterranean flavors, a Tuna Melt offers comfort in every bite. So, next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and satisfying, try making a Tuna Melt with your unique twist!
