If you’re craving a sandwich that perfectly balances creamy, tangy tuna with melty, gooey cheese, then this Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a delicious, comforting classic that combines simple pantry ingredients into a warm, crispy delight bursting with flavor and texture. This is not just any sandwich—it’s a cozy hug on sourdough that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these tuna melts bring together the best of creamy tuna salad and irresistibly melted cheddar in a golden grilled package that’s pure joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to bring out the perfect balance of flavor, creaminess, crunch, and meltiness. Nothing fancy, but everything essential to build a sandwich that’s hearty and satisfying.
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked: The star protein, light and flaky, providing a rich foundation.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and binds the tuna together beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and a little kick to keep things interesting.
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped: Offers a refreshing crunch that lifts the texture.
- 1 tablespoon red onion finely chopped: Lends a slightly sharp bite and color contrast.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the tuna salad with a zesty note.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that highlights every ingredient.
- 4 slices of sourdough or white bread: The crispy, buttery outside that holds it all together.
- 1 tablespoon butter softened: For grilling, creating that irresistible golden crust.
- 4 slices cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly to envelop the tuna in gooey deliciousness; Swiss or provolone are great alternatives.
How to Make Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture
Start by draining your canned tuna well, then flake it with a fork into a medium bowl. Mix in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and black pepper, and stir everything thoroughly until it forms a creamy, flavorful filling with just the right amount of texture from the veggies. This mixture is the heart of your Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe and sets the tone for that perfect bite.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
Lay out your bread slices on a clean surface. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice—this will be the exterior that crisps up in the skillet. Flip them over and place two slices of cheddar cheese on two of the unbuttered sides. Scoop the tuna mixture evenly over the cheese layers. Finally, top each with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward, to seal everything inside before grilling.
Step 3: Grill to Golden Perfection
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Gently place your assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to press lightly, ensuring even contact and encouraging the cheese to melt beautifully while the bread turns a gorgeous golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn but come out crisp. Once done, remove from heat and slice the sandwiches in half to reveal the melty treasure inside.
How to Serve Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your tuna melt experience, add a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach on the side or inside the sandwich for a pop of green and slight peppery bite. Thin slices of ripe tomato or crunchy dill pickles tucked inside add freshness and unexpected bursts of flavor that complement the creamy tuna beautifully.
Side Dishes
Classic comfort calls for simple sides like a crisp pickle spear, kettle-cooked chips, or a light garden salad with vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, pair your Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe with a warm bowl of tomato soup—it’s the ultimate nostalgic combo that soothes and satisfies all at once.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not cut your sandwiches into bite-sized sliders for a party platter? Serve them skewered with toothpicks alongside a variety of dipping sauces like spicy aioli or ranch dressing. Layering fresh sprouts or avocado slices inside makes for a vibrant twist that your guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The bread may lose some crispness but the flavors remain delicious and are perfect for a quick second helping.
Freezing
While freezing grilled sandwiches can sometimes change texture, you can freeze the assembled but ungrilled sandwiches by wrapping them tightly and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling fresh as described.
Reheating
To regain that crispy exterior and melty cheese, reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium heat, flipping carefully until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery, dulling all the joy of this dish.
FAQs
Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?
Absolutely! Tuna in oil can add a little more richness to the filling. Just drain it well before mixing to avoid an overly greasy sandwich.
What type of cheese works best in this Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe?
Cheddar is classic for its sharp and melty qualities, but Swiss and provolone are wonderful alternatives for a slightly different flavor and smooth melt.
How can I make this sandwich healthier?
You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or avocado to cut calories and add nutrients, and use whole grain bread for more fiber.
Can I add vegetables inside the sandwich?
Definitely! Sliced tomatoes, pickles, or leafy greens are great to add freshness and crunch that balance out the creamy tuna filling.
What’s the best bread for this recipe?
Sourdough and white bread both work well as they crisp nicely but hold together without becoming soggy. Feel free to experiment with your favorites but avoid very soft or extremely thick slices.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this fantastic Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe in your culinary toolbox, you’re ready to whip up a comforting, delicious meal any day of the week with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for lunch, a quick dinner, or whenever the craving for creamy tuna and melty cheese strikes. Trust me, once you try it, this grilled sandwich will win a forever spot in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Tuna Melt Grilled Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A classic American tuna melt grilled sandwich featuring a creamy tuna salad with celery and red onion, melted cheddar cheese, and buttery toasted sourdough bread. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Tuna Salad
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sandwich
- 4 slices sourdough or white bread
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Tuna Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Sandwich: Lay out the bread slices and butter one side of each slice evenly. Flip the slices over so the unbuttered sides are facing up. Place two slices of cheddar cheese on two of the unbuttered sides.
- Add Tuna Mixture: Evenly spread the prepared tuna salad over the cheese slices.
- Close Sandwich: Top the tuna-topped slices with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered sides face outward.
- Cook Sandwiches: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure the bread browns evenly and the cheese melts inside.
- Serve: Remove from heat once golden brown and cheese is melted. Slice each sandwich in half and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with Swiss or provolone for different flavors.
- Add sliced tomatoes or pickles inside the sandwich for extra texture and flavor.
