Tuna Melt

Tuna Melt

Legend has it that the tuna melt was accidentally invented in the 1960s at the Woolworth’s lunch counter in Charleston, S.C., when the cook didn’t notice that a bowl of tuna salad had tipped over onto a grilled cheese. We may never know if this story is true, but there’s no doubt that the tuna melt has become a classic American diner food. This recipe adds chopped cornichons and whole-grain mustard for a satisfying crunch and vinegary element. Extra-sharp Cheddar is a must, and as with grilled cheese, the key to achieving perfectly melted cheese and golden bread is to toast the sandwich over medium-low heat. If you prefer an open-face tuna melt, skip the top piece of bread and place the sandwich on a sheet pan under the broiler until the cheese melts.

Ingredients

  • 3 cans solid

    water-packed tuna, drained, 6-ounce

  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cornichons or small kosher dill pickles
  • 3 tablespoons minced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 packed tablespoon minced fresh dill

    optional

  • 2 teaspoons whole-grain mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 slices rye or sourdough bread

    cut 1/2-inch thick

  • 8 sandwich slices extra-sharp Cheddar

    or 6 ounces shredded

  • 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter

    plus more as needed

Directions

  1. 1

    Place the tuna in a medium bowl and flake with a fork. Add the mayonnaise, cornichons, red onion, lemon juice, dill (if using), mustard, salt and pepper. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Depending on the size of your bread, spoon 1/3 to 1/2 cup tuna salad on each of four slices of bread, heaping it in the middle slightly. Divide the cheese among the sandwiches, tearing and arranging the cheese to fit neatly. Place a piece of bread on top of each and generously spread the top piece of each sandwich with about 1/2 tablespoon butter.

  3. 3

    Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium-low. Place two sandwiches, buttered-side down, in the skillet, and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottom pieces of bread are golden brown.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, spread the top of the each sandwich with another 1/2 tablespoon butter. Carefully flip the sandwiches, turn the heat to low, and cook for 3 to 4 more minutes, until the bottoms are browned and the cheese is melted. Repeat with the remaining two sandwiches and serve immediately.

Tuna Melt

Tuna Melt

4.0(3.4k)

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About this Recipe

Craving that quintessential diner comfort food without leaving your kitchen? This Tuna Melt recipe delivers on all fronts, transforming a simple sandwich into a satisfying meal with layers of flavor and texture.

The Anatomy of a Perfect Tuna Melt

What truly sets this tuna melt apart is its thoughtful balance of ingredients and a crucial cooking technique. The addition of chopped cornichons and whole-grain mustard provides an essential satisfying crunch and a bright, vinegary counterpoint to the rich tuna salad. Using extra-sharp Cheddar is key, offering a robust, tangy flavor that stands up beautifully to the other components. And just like a classic grilled cheese, the secret to achieving perfectly golden, crispy bread with gooey, melted cheese is toasting the sandwich gently over medium-low heat.

Expect a symphony of textures and tastes: creamy, savory tuna salad studded with crisp bits of pickle and onion, all nestled between slices of your chosen bread. The bread becomes deeply golden and crunchy, yielding to a generous layer of gloriously melted extra-sharp Cheddar. It's a warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying sandwich, perfect for a hearty lunch or a quick, easy dinner. The combination of savory, tangy, and rich elements makes every bite truly delightful.

Customization and Serving Ideas

This versatile recipe offers a few ways to tailor it to your preferences. If you're a fan of the classic open-face experience, simply omit the top piece of bread and finish the sandwich under the broiler until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Feel free to experiment with your bread choice, as both rye and sourdough bring their unique flavors to the party. While extra-sharp Cheddar is a must for its bold flavor, other firm, meltable cheeses could be used if you're in a pinch, though the flavor profile will shift.

Serve this iconic sandwich hot off the pan, perhaps alongside a simple side salad or a bowl of your favorite soup for a complete and utterly comforting meal. It's an ideal choice for a relaxed weekend lunch or a nostalgic weeknight supper.

Frequently Asked Questions