Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?

Absolutely! I do this all the time when I want to mix things up. Just make sure to drain it well and flake it with a fork. The texture’s a bit different, but with all that melty cheese, nobody will complain. I call it my "chicken melt loophole" when my kids are being picky.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Easy peasy—just swap the bread for your favorite GF variety. I’ve had great results with gluten-free sourdough or those sturdy seeded loaves. Pro tip: Toast the bread lightly before assembling—it helps prevent sogginess since GF bread tends to be more delicate.

Why does my cheese slide out when I flip it?

Oh honey, I’ve been there! Two tricks: First, make sure your skillet isn’t too hot—medium heat lets the cheese melt gradually. Second, press down gently with the spatula for 10 seconds after flipping to "seal" everything together. If all else fails? Eat it with a fork—no shame in that game!

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

You can prep the tuna mixture up to 2 days in advance (it actually tastes better as the flavors meld). But assemble and cook right before eating—pre-made sandwiches turn soggy in the fridge. My move? Mix a big batch of tuna salad on Sunday, then whip up fresh melts all week in 5 minutes flat.

What’s the best cheese if I don’t have cheddar?

Swiss is my #1 backup—that nutty flavor pairs perfectly with tuna. Pepper jack adds a fun kick, and provolone melts like a dream. Heck, I’ve even used American cheese in a pinch (don’t tell the food snobs—it’s actually delicious!). The key is using slices, not shredded—they melt more evenly.

Irresistible 20-Minute Tuna Melt Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

Name: Irresistible 20-Minute Tuna Melt Recipe for Ultimate Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup diced celery; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 slices bread; 4 slices cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp butter

Irresistible 20-Minute Tuna Melt Recipe for Ultimate Comfort

Print Recipe

A delicious and comforting tuna melt sandwich with melted cheese and a crispy exterior. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 mins
Total Time: 18 mins
Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Category: Sandwich
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup diced celery
1/4 cup diced red onion
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 slices bread
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter

Instructions

In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, and black pepper.
Spread the tuna mixture on two slices of bread.
Top each with two slices of cheddar cheese.
Place the remaining bread slices on top to form sandwiches.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter.
Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
Serve hot.

Notes

Use fresh bread for the best texture.
Add a pinch of salt if needed.
Swap cheddar for Swiss or mozzarella if preferred.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: best tuna melt recipe, cheesy tuna melt, quick dinner melt, comfort food sandwich

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