Quick Tuna Melt Recipe

Introduction

The Quick Tuna Melt is a satisfying and flavorful sandwich that combines gooey melted cheese with a zesty tuna salad. Perfect for a speedy lunch or easy dinner, this recipe packs a punch with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of sourdough
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 2 tsp salted butter
• 2 tbsp grated mozzarella
• 2 tbsp grated cheddar cheese
• 130 g canned tuna (90g drained weight)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (use less if preferred)
• 1 pickled gherkin, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp pickled jalapenos, finely chopped
• 1 tsp capers, finely chopped
• 1/2 tbsp yogurt
• 1/2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp honey

Instructions

1. Step 1: Lay out the sourdough slices. Place 1 tbsp grated mozzarella and 1 tbsp grated cheddar cheese between two slices to make a sandwich, and repeat for the second sandwich.
2. Step 2: Heat a frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetable oil and butter, allowing the butter to melt. Add the cheese sandwiches and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, watching carefully to avoid burning. Lower the heat if needed.
3. Step 3: While the sandwiches cook, combine the drained tuna, chopped red onion, gherkin, jalapenos, capers, mayonnaise, yogurt, paprika, black pepper, and honey in a bowl. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.
4. Step 4: Once the sandwiches are golden brown on both sides, remove them from the pan. Gently separate the halves to reveal the melted cheese. Spread the tuna mixture evenly over one piece of each sandwich, then top with the other piece, pressing gently to seal. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, add a slice of tomato or avocado inside the sandwich before topping with the second bread slice.
• Use whole grain or rye bread for a different flavor and texture.
• If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the pickled jalapenos.
• Swap the cheddar and mozzarella for other melting cheeses like provolone or Swiss.

Storage

These tuna melts are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispy bread and gooey cheese. If needed, wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave if possible to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Using fresh tuna would require cooking it first, which changes the texture and preparation time. Canned tuna is ideal here for convenience and the classic flavor combination.

What can I substitute for yogurt and mayonnaise?

You can use sour cream or crème fraîche as alternatives, or omit one if you prefer a lighter tuna mix. Just adjust to maintain the creamy texture.

Quick Tuna Melt Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 83 reviews

• Author: Elara
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x

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Description

This Quick Tuna Melt recipe features crispy sourdough bread with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese, paired with a flavorful tuna mixture infused with pickled jalapeños, gherkins, capers, and a hint of honey. Ready in just about 15 minutes, it’s a perfect satisfying lunch or light dinner that combines savory, tangy, and creamy flavors for an easy yet delicious sandwich.

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Ingredients

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Bread and Cheese

• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 2 tbsp grated mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 2 tbsp grated cheddar cheese (divided)
• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 2 tsp salted butter

Tuna Mixture

• 130 g canned tuna (90 g drained weight)
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped (use less if preferred)
• 1 pickled gherkin, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp pickled jalapeños, finely chopped
• 1 tsp capers, finely chopped
• 1/2 tbsp plain yogurt
• 1/2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp honey
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cheese Sandwiches: Lay out the 4 slices of sourdough bread. On two slices, evenly distribute 1 tablespoon of grated mozzarella and 1 tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese each, then top with the remaining bread slices to form sandwiches.
2. Cook the Sandwiches: Heat a frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add 2 teaspoons of vegetable oil and 2 teaspoons of salted butter to melt. Once hot, place the cheese sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 4 minutes on each side. Monitor carefully and reduce heat as needed to prevent burning, until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted beautifully.
3. Prepare the Tuna Filling: While the sandwiches cook, combine the drained tuna, finely chopped red onion, pickled gherkin, pickled jalapeños, chopped capers, mayonnaise, yogurt, paprika, honey, and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl. Stir thoroughly and taste, adjusting the seasoning as desired.
4. Assemble the Tuna Melts: Once the sandwiches are golden and cheesy, remove from the pan. Gently pull apart the bread slices and spread the tuna mixture evenly over the bottom halves. Place the top halves back on and press lightly to seal. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese and flavorful tuna blend.

Notes

• Adjust the amount of red onion according to your taste to avoid overpowering the tuna mixture.
• Use a non-stick pan or well-seasoned skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
• You can substitute the pickled jalapeños for fresh ones if you prefer less tanginess and more heat.
• For a creamier texture, add a little extra mayonnaise or yogurt to the tuna mix.
• Serve with a side salad or crisps for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 7 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Tuna melt, grilled cheese sandwich, quick tuna sandwich, easy lunch recipe, melted cheese sandwich