18 Best Tuna Melt Sandwich Recipes You Need To Try

The tuna melt is a classic comfort food. It is warm, toasty, and cheesy. It has a creamy tuna salad filling and melted cheese on top. The bread is grilled until golden brown and crispy. It is the perfect sandwich for lunch or a quick dinner.

These 18 tuna melt recipes are all easy to make. Most of them take about 15 minutes from start to finish. You can use a skillet, a griddle, or a panini press. There are classic versions, spicy versions, and even healthy versions. Let us get cooking.

1. Classic Tuna Melt

This is the original tuna melt. It has creamy tuna salad, cheddar cheese, and toasted bread. It is simple, comforting, and delicious.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread (white, sourdough, or whole wheat)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
8. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
9. Serve hot.

2. Open-Faced Tuna Melt

This version is open-faced. It has only one slice of bread. The tuna and cheese are broiled until bubbly. It is a lighter option.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 slices of bread (sourdough or whole wheat)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to broil.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over each slice of bread.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the tuna.
6. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are toasted.
7. Serve hot.

3. Spicy Tuna Melt

This version adds a kick of heat. The spicy tuna salad and pepper jack cheese make it bold and flavorful.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (or more to taste)
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeños, chopped (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, celery, red onion, jalapeños (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the spicy tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the pepper jack cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

4. Tuna Melt with Avocado

Avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats to this tuna melt. It is a delicious and nutritious twist.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (instead of mayonnaise)
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of whole wheat bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded provolone or Swiss cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, celery, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the avocado tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the provolone cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

5. Tuna Melt with Bacon

Everything is better with bacon. The salty, smoky bacon adds a wonderful crunch and flavor to this tuna melt.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
4. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
5. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
6. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the tuna.
7. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the bacon.
8. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
9. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Serve hot.

6. Tuna Melt with Pickles

Pickles add a tangy, crunchy element to this tuna melt. It is a simple addition that makes a big difference.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon pickle juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, chopped pickles, celery, red onion, pickle juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the Swiss cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

7. Tuna Melt with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet, intense, tangy flavor to this tuna melt. It is a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of ciabatta or sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, red onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

8. Tuna Melt with Roasted Red Peppers

Roasted red peppers add a sweet, smoky flavor to this tuna melt. They are a great addition to the classic recipe.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, roasted red peppers, parsley, red onion, capers (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the provolone cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

9. Tuna Melt with Apple and Walnuts

This is a unique and delicious tuna melt. The sweet apple and crunchy walnuts add texture and flavor. It is perfect for fall.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), finely chopped
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of whole wheat bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, chopped apple, walnuts, celery, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

10. Tuna Melt with Artichoke Hearts

Artichoke hearts add a tangy, savory flavor to this tuna melt. It is a great option for people who love Mediterranean flavors.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded fontina or provolone cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, chopped artichoke hearts, dill, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the fontina cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

11. Tuna Melt with Pesto

Pesto adds a bright, herby flavor to this tuna melt. It is a simple way to elevate the classic sandwich.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of ciabatta or focaccia bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, pesto, sun-dried tomatoes (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

12. Tuna Melt with Capers and Lemon

Capers and lemon add a bright, briny flavor to this tuna melt. It is light and refreshing.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, capers, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the Swiss cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

13. Tuna Melt with Old Bay Seasoning

Old Bay seasoning adds a unique, savory, slightly spicy flavor to this tuna melt. It is a great option for seafood lovers.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, celery, red onion, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

14. Tuna Melt with Sourdough and Gruyere

Using sourdough bread and Gruyere cheese makes this tuna melt extra special. The tangy sourdough and nutty Gruyere are a perfect pair.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons shallots, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of sourdough bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, shallots, chives, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the Gruyere cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

15. Tuna Melt with Jalapeños

Fresh or pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick to this tuna melt. It is perfect for people who love heat.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, jalapeños, cilantro, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the pepper jack cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

16. Tuna Melt with Olive Tapenade

Olive tapenade adds a salty, briny, intense olive flavor to this tuna melt. It is a Mediterranean delight.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons olive tapenade
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of ciabatta bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, olive tapenade, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of ciabatta.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the provolone cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

17. Healthy Tuna Melt (Greek Yogurt Base)

This version uses Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It is lower in fat and calories but still creamy and delicious.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of whole wheat bread
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or light butter
• 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, dill, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Brush one side of each slice of bread with olive oil or light butter.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, oiled side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the reduced-fat cheddar cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, oiled side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

18. Tuna Melt with Everything Bagel Seasoning

Everything bagel seasoning adds a savory, garlicky, oniony flavor to this tuna melt. It is a simple way to add a lot of taste.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients:

• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in water, drained
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 slices of bread
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the drained tuna, mayonnaise, cream cheese, everything bagel seasoning, celery, red onion, salt, and pepper.
2. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
3. Place 2 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
4. Spread the tuna salad evenly over the bread slices.
5. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the tuna.
6. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Tuna Melt

• Use high-quality tuna packed in water, not oil.
• Drain the tuna very well. Excess water will make the sandwich soggy.
• Use freshly shredded cheese. It melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
• Butter the bread all the way to the edges for even browning.
• Cook over medium heat, not high heat. This gives the cheese time to melt without burning the bread.
• Press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula while cooking for even toasting.

Storage Tips

• Tuna melts are best enjoyed fresh. The bread gets soggy if stored.
• You can make the tuna salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Assemble and cook the sandwiches just before serving.

Final Thoughts

The tuna melt is a classic for a reason. It is warm, toasty, cheesy, and comforting. With these 18 recipes, you will never get bored. There are classic versions, spicy versions, healthy versions, and unique versions with apples, artichokes, or pesto. Pick one, heat up your skillet, and start cooking. Enjoy.