1. Can I make a tuna melt without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or even hummus for a creamy texture and added nutrition.

2. What type of bread works best for a tuna melt?

Thicker breads like sourdough, whole wheat, or panini-style bread are ideal as they hold up well to toasting and the creamy filling. English muffins and wraps also work.

3. How do I know when the tuna melt is done cooking?

When both sides of the sandwich are golden brown and the cheese is visibly melted and gooey, it's ready to serve. This usually takes 3–4 minutes per side on medium heat.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the tuna filling in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Assemble and grill the sandwich just before serving to keep the bread crispy.

Tuna Melt Sandwich

Name: Tuna Melt Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans tuna (5 oz each), drained; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1/2 stalk celery, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 3–4 tablespoons mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Sliced bread; Softened butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

A beginner-friendly tuna melt sandwich recipe with golden toasted bread, creamy tuna filling, and melted mozzarella—perfect for quick and healthy meals.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans tuna (5 oz each), drained
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 stalk celery, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
3–4 tablespoons mayonnaise
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Sliced bread
Softened butter
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Drain the tuna and place it in a medium mixing bowl.
Chop the onion, celery, and parsley. Mince the garlic and add all to the bowl with the tuna.
Add mayonnaise, half the olive oil, and shredded mozzarella. Mix until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of a bread slice.
Place the buttered side of the bread down in the skillet. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the tuna mixture evenly on top.
Butter another slice of bread and place it on top with the buttered side facing up.
Grill until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until also golden and cheese is melted.
Remove from heat, let cool for a minute, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a mix of olive oil and butter to prevent burning and enhance flavor.
Cast iron skillets give a crispier crust than non-stick pans.
To make it healthier, use less cheese and opt for olive oil only.
The tuna mixture can be made ahead and stored for 2 days in the fridge.
Swap mayo with Greek yogurt or avocado for a lighter version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Lunch
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 45mg