This crispy cheesy tuna melt is a quick and easy comfort food classic made with flaky tuna, creamy mayonnaise, melted cheddar, and golden toasted bread. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this tuna melt sandwich delivers the best balance of crunch and flavor. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for busy days or when you need a warm, satisfying meal. Serve with soup, salad, or fries for a complete, family-friendly dish that’s both simple and delicious.

This crispy, golden sandwich filled with creamy tuna and melted cheddar is the perfect comfort food for lunch or a quick dinner. Simple ingredients and bold flavors make this classic tuna melt irresistible.

Table of Contents

Ingredients

1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained (Wild Planet Wild Albacore Tuna recommended)
3 to 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 dill pickle spears, finely minced (see notes)
¼ teaspoon steak seasoning (see notes)
2 slices cheddar cheese
4 slices bread (Canyon Bakehouse Heritage Loaf recommended)
Softened butter, for spreading

Directions

Prepare the filling:
In a medium bowl, flake the tuna with a fork. Add mayonnaise, minced pickles, and steak seasoning. Stir until evenly combined.
Assemble the sandwiches:
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Flip two slices over (buttered side down) and divide the tuna mixture evenly on top. Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each, then cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Cook the melts:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches on the hot surface and cook until the bottom side is golden and crisp. Flip carefully and continue cooking until the second side is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted.
Serve:
Transfer the sandwiches to plates, slice in half, and serve warm.

Tips

Low heat is key: Cook over medium heat to let the cheese melt completely without burning the bread.
Extra crunch: Add a bit of shredded cheddar to the outer buttered sides before grilling for an extra crispy crust.
Better butter spread: Let butter soften fully before spreading to avoid tearing the bread.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheese: Swap cheddar for Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
Bread: Use sourdough, whole wheat, or even a crusty baguette instead of sandwich bread.
Add-ins: Mix in diced onions, celery, or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna for a flavor boost.
Healthier option: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the tuna filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?
Yes, canned salmon works just as well and offers a slightly richer taste.

Can I bake instead of pan-frying?
Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and melted.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your tuna melt with:

A bowl of tomato soup for a cozy combo.
A fresh green salad or coleslaw for balance.
Crunchy potato chips or sweet potato fries for extra texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make with pantry staples.
Crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy inside.
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.
Customizable with endless flavor variations.