Few things bring comfort quite like a perfectly cheesy tuna melt. With its crispy bread and gooey cheese enveloping savory tuna, this sandwich is a hug in food form. It’s an ideal quick lunch or dinner that combines simplicity with satisfaction. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time taster, get ready to discover the delightful harmony of flavors and textures in this classic dish.
Steps
- Begin by preparing the tuna mixture. Combine a can of tuna with equal parts finely chopped red onion and celery, aiming for about a heaping ? cup or a scant ½ cup of each. Add a pickled element like capers or pickled jalapeños for tanginess and saltiness.
- Mix in a generous amount of Kewpie mayo to bind the ingredients together, relying on the pickle brine for added seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined and creamy.
- Take two slices of bread and start building the sandwich. Lay down a slice of your favorite melty cheese, such as American or cheddar, on one of the bread slices.
- Spread the tuna mixture over the cheese, then top with another slice of cheese to ensure optimal meltiness. Place the second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add some butter. Once melted, place the sandwich in the pan, cooking it on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the sandwich from the pan and let it cool for a minute. Slice it in half and serve with kettle chips and a dill pickle spear on the side. Optionally, add a splash of Frank’s hot sauce to the chips for a spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 1 small red onion, chopped (about ? cup to ½ cup)
- 1 rib of celery, chopped (about ? cup to ½ cup)
- 1 can of tuna
- American or cheddar cheese, slices
- Capers or pickled jalapeño, to taste
- Kewpie mayo
- 2 slices of bread
- Kettle chips (optional, for serving)
- Dill pickle spear (optional, for serving)
- Frank’s hot sauce (optional, for serving)
FAQ
- What type of cheese is recommended for a tuna melt?
- American cheese is recommended for its excellent melting properties, but cheddar can be used if you prefer its flavor.
- What ingredients add crunch to the tuna melt?
- Red onion and celery are used to add a crunchy texture to the tuna melt, with equal amounts of each recommended.
- How is the tuna melt seasoned?
- The recipe relies on the briny flavors of capers or pickled jalapeños and the savory taste of Kewpie mayonnaise, without adding any additional salt.
- What side dishes are suggested to accompany a tuna melt?
- Kettle chips are highly recommended, ideally paired with a dill pickle spear. Adding Frank’s hot sauce to the chips is also suggested.
- Can this tuna melt be enjoyed at any specific time of day?
- The tuna melt can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as a midnight snack, according to personal preference.
Tips
- To ensure the cheese is perfectly melted and gooey, start cooking your tuna melt on the side where the cheese is placed. Choose a cheese that melts well, like American or cheddar, for the best results.
- For added texture, include a generous amount of red onion and celery in your tuna mixture. Aim for about a heaping ? cup or a scant ½ cup of each to achieve the perfect crunch in every bite.
- Incorporate a tangy, briny element to enhance the flavor profile. Consider using capers or pickled jalapeños for a nice acidic and salty kick, eliminating the need for extra salt.
- Serve your tuna melt with a side of kettle chips, and for an extra flavor boost, drizzle them with Frank’s hot sauce. If possible, add a dill pickle spear for a complete experience.
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan or griddle – Essential for frying the bread and ensuring the cheese melts properly.
- Spatula – Useful for flipping the sandwich without causing it to fall apart.
- Cheese grater – If you’re using blocks of cheese rather than pre-sliced cheese.
- Mixing bowl – To combine the tuna mixture with other ingredients.
- Knife – A good quality knife for chopping onions and celery.
