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Tuna Melts

Classic Comfort Tuna Melts

15 minutesEasyServes 4

There's something so satisfying about a perfectly melted tuna melt—that moment when you bite through the crispy, golden bread to find the creamy tuna salad and melted cheese beneath. This was one of the first things I learned to make on my own as a teenager, standing in front of the stove with a spatula in hand, waiting for that perfect bubble and sizzle. It's comfort food that doesn't require much, but delivers everything you need—warmth, satisfaction, and that feeling that everything's going to be just fine.

Ingredients

For the Tuna Salad:

  • • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
  • • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • • 2 tbsp red onion, minced
  • • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • • Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • • 8 slices of good bread (sourdough or whole grain)
  • • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • • 4 tbsp butter, softened
  • • 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
  • • Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)
  • • Pickle spears for serving

Instructions

  1. 1. In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, minced red onion, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more mayo if you like it creamier, or more lemon for brightness.
  3. 3. Lightly butter one side of each bread slice. Place butter-side down in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  4. 4. Spread tuna salad generously on 4 slices of bread (the side facing up). Add tomato slices if using.
  5. 5. Top each with a generous handful of shredded cheese, then place the remaining bread slices on top, butter-side up.
  6. 6. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip using a spatula.
  7. 7. Cook another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
  8. 8. Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before cutting diagonally.
  9. 9. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, with pickle spears on the side.

Bre's Pro Tips

  • • Use good quality tuna—it makes all the difference in flavor
  • • Don't skip the celery—it adds the perfect crunch
  • • Keep heat at medium to avoid burning before cheese melts
  • • Try adding sliced avocado for extra creaminess
  • • Day-old bread works best for grilling—it holds up better
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