There is nothing quite like a classic, diner-style Tuna Melt to hit the ultimate comfort food sweet spot. This recipe delivers the perfect contrast of textures: crispy, buttery grilled bread on the outside, and a creamy, crunchy tuna salad with melted, gooey cheese and juicy tomatoes on the inside. It is a nostalgic, quick-fix lunch or dinner that elevates a humble can of pantry tuna into a total masterpiece.

Tuna Melt Sandwich
Level: Easy Prep:  Yield: 8 servings
Total: 15 minutes Inactive:  Serving Size: 8 sandwiches

Ingredients

  • 15 oz drained tuna, flaked with a fork
  • ½ cup finely chopped celery
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 ½ tablespoons pickle relish
  • Pinch salt & pepper
  • 8 slices of cheese (your choice)
  • 16 slices of bread (your choice)
  • 8 slices of tomatoes

Directions

1. Prepare tuna mix in a large bowl: combine tuna, mayonnaise, relish, celery and spices. Use right away or store in the fridge for up to two days
2. Butter bread and build a sandwich with tuna, tomato slices and cheese
3. Grill the tuna sandwich in a hot skillet until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted. Serve warm.

Cook's Note

Canned or shredded chicken can be used instead of canned tuna.

Daigle, W., and Weding, H. 2026, Tuna Melt Sandwich, Extension | University of Nevada, Reno, Recipes

Learn more about the author(s)

Natalie Mazzullo
Natalie Mazzullo
Hans Weding
Hans Weding
 

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