Griddled Tuna Melt on Rye with Sharp Cheddar

Name: Griddled Tuna Melt on Rye with Sharp Cheddar
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans tuna (drained and flaked); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tbsp dijon mustard; 1 celery stalk (finely chopped); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 1 tsp lemon juice; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 8 slices rye bread; 8 slices sharp cheddar cheese; 4 tbsp butter (softened)

20 min 4 sandwiches Easy

All Recipes

Savoury tuna melt on rye, featuring sharp cheddar and perfectly crisp bread.

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

The classic tuna melt is a comforting and satisfying sandwich that combines the heartiness of tuna with the creamy richness of melted cheese. It's a beloved staple in North American cuisine, offering a perfect balance of flavours and textures. The key to a great tuna melt is achieving the ultimate combination of crispy bread and gooey cheese, while keeping the tuna mixture moist yet not soggy. Using rye bread adds a delightful depth of flavour, complementing the sharpness of cheddar cheese. In this recipe, we stress the importance of properly draining the tuna to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. By buttering the outside of the bread instead of the pan, you ensure an even, golden-brown crust that makes each bite of this sandwich irresistibly crunchy.

Instructions

Prepare the tuna mixture

In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.

Pro tip: Ensure the tuna is well-drained to avoid soggy sandwiches.

Prepare the bread

Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. This will be the outside of the sandwich.

Pro tip: Butter the bread, not the pan, for a crispier texture.

Assemble the sandwiches

Place four slices of bread, buttered side down, on a cutting board. Add a layer of cheddar cheese, then spread the tuna mixture evenly. Top with another slice of cheese, and cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.

Pro tip: Adding cheese on both sides helps keep the sandwich together and extra cheesy.

Preheat the skillet

Heat a large skillet over medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C).

Cook the sandwiches

Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Check the internal temperature of the tuna mixture in the center of the sandwich with a food thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F / 63°C.

Pro tip: Use a heavy skillet for even cooking.

Serve

Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Pro tip: Letting it rest for a minute helps the cheese set slightly before cutting.

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Tips & Tricks

Drain the tuna thoroughly to avoid soggy bread.
Butter the bread, not the pan, for a crisp finish.
Use a heavy skillet to ensure even toasting.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance the tuna’s flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bread for a tuna melt?

Rye bread is excellent for a tuna melt due to its flavour and texture.

How to prevent a soggy tuna melt?

Thoroughly drain the tuna and butter the bread, not the pan, for a crisp finish.

What cheese is best for a tuna melt?

Sharp cheddar is ideal due to its strong flavour that complements the tuna.

How long to cook a tuna melt?

Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and the cheese melts.

Can I make a tuna melt ahead of time?

You can prepare the tuna mixture in advance, but assemble and cook the sandwich just before serving for best results.

What to serve with a tuna melt?

Serve with pickles, a fresh salad, or a side of coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

This griddled tuna melt is perfect for a quick lunch or a simple dinner. Serve it with a side of pickles or a light salad to balance the richness of the cheese. To make ahead, prepare the tuna mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Assemble the sandwich just before cooking to maintain the bread’s crispness. Leftovers can be wrapped in foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat to restore its crispy texture. Enjoy your tuna melt with a refreshing iced tea or a light beer for a complete meal.