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Tuna Melt Recipe

Tuna Melt Recipe

A warm, gooey classic that’s quick enough for an easy lunch but special enough to feel homemade and a little nostalgic.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 2 serves 2

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and patted dry Wild Planet works great
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise mayonnaise or whole-milk Greek yogurt for a lighter twist
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Dijon mustard substitute yellow mustard if you like milder tang
  • 1 celery stalk celery stalk, finely chopped adds crunch and freshness
  • 1 green onion green onion, thinly sliced springy bite
  • sea salt 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • freshly ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 slices sourdough bread sourdough bread (or whole-grain for extra fiber)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese sharp cheddar cheese (or Swiss, provolone—your call)
  • 1 tablespoon butter butter, softened for golden, crispy bread

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, stir together drained tuna, mayo, Dijon, celery, green onion, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Let it sit for 5 minutes—this rest lets the flavors mingle.
  • Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. The buttered side will crisp up nicely in the pan.
  • Flip two bread slices, butter-side down. Divide the tuna salad evenly, then top each with two cheese slices. Finish with the remaining bread, buttered side up.
  • Warm a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. No need to oil if your pan is well-seasoned.
  • Place sandwiches in the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until bread is golden and cheese is melted. If the bread browns too quickly, lower heat slightly.
  • Peek inside one sandwich; the cheese should be oozy and the edges crisp. Remove to a cutting board.
  • Let sandwiches rest 1 minute, then cut diagonally. Plate with pickles or a simple side salad for a complete, easy lunch.

Notes

I learned that resting the tuna mixture for a few minutes deepens the flavor—trust me, it’s worth it. If your skillet is smoking, dial back the heat; medium-low still gives a golden crust without burning. For even faster melts, grate your cheese instead of slicing. And if you like an herb lift, stir in a teaspoon of fresh dill or parsley.
Keyword Comfort Food, Sandwich, Tuna Melt
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