Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?

Absolutely! Salmon makes a delicious twist—just drain it well and flake it extra fine since it's chunkier than tuna. Try throwing in some capers for a fancy salmon melt variation. The method stays exactly the same, and that melty cheddar still works perfectly.

How do I get the crispiest bread possible?

Here's my diner-style trick: Butter the bread slice that'll touch the pan AND spread mayo on the outer side—it creates an ultra-crispy, golden crust. Also, make sure your skillet is properly preheated before the sandwiches go in. That initial sizzle means crunch is coming!

Can I make sheet pan tuna melts for a crowd?

You bet! Assemble sandwiches on a baking sheet, butter-side up, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden. Flip carefully, top with cheese, and broil another minute. Watch closely—they go from perfect to burnt quickly under the broiler! This method saves so much time for family dinners or game day.

What cheese works best besides cheddar?

While cheddar's classic, my second favorite is pepper jack—that little spicy kick cuts through the richness beautifully. Swiss gives a lovely mildness, while provolone gets super stringy (in the best way). Basically any good melting cheese works—just steer clear of anything too dry like feta or parmesan.

Irresistible 20-Minute Tuna Melt Sandwich Recipe

Classic Tuna Melt Sandwich

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A gooey, diner-style tuna melt with cheddar cheese, perfect for comfort food lovers. Easy to make and packed with flavor.

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

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup diced celery
2 tbsp diced pickles
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 slices bread
4 slices cheddar cheese
1 tbsp butter

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix tuna, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, pickles, and black pepper.
Spread the tuna mixture on two slices of bread.
Top each with two slices of cheddar cheese.
Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices.
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cheese melts.
Serve warm.

Notes

For extra crunch, toast the bread before assembling.
Add sliced tomatoes or avocado for variation.
Find more recipe inspiration on our Pinterest account.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/classic-tuna-melt-sandwich-recipe/