Best Tuna Melt Recipe: Perfect Oven-Baked Sandwiches
If you’re searching for the best tuna melt recipe, you’ve found it! This oven-baked tuna melt offers a mouthwatering combination of creamy tuna salad, melted cheese, and crispy, buttery bread.
It’s an upgrade from the typical stove-top version, making it easier to get that perfect melt without the mess. Whether you’re preparing lunch or dinner, this tuna melt sandwich is sure to hit the spot.
Let’s dive into the recipe for a deliciously golden tuna melt that’s easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying.
Why This Tuna Melt Stands Out
Unlike many recipes that use a skillet, we bake our tuna melt in the oven. This ensures the sandwich heats evenly throughout, with gooey melted cheese that pairs beautifully with the tuna salad.
We toast the bread first for that golden, buttery crust reminiscent of a classic grilled cheese sandwich, but without the hassle of flipping the sandwich in a pan.
How to Make the Best Tuna Melt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Tuna Salad:
Start by draining two cans of albacore tuna. Ensure the tuna is thoroughly drained, as excess moisture can cause the sandwich to become soggy. Use a tuna can strainer for this if you have one.
In a medium-sized bowl, break the tuna into smaller pieces to maximize surface area, which helps the flavors combine perfectly.
Add diced celery, minced onions, mayonnaise, relish, lemon juice, parsley, mustard, salt, garlic powder, dried dill weed, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir everything together until well-combined.
Toast the Bread:
Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Place slices of bread in the skillet and toast until golden on one side (about 2-3 minutes).
Flip and let the other side toast for another minute or so. Repeat for all slices, adding more butter as needed.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Spread the prepared tuna salad evenly on three slices of toasted bread. Place two slices of cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese) on top of the tuna, then top with the other slices of bread, ensuring the golden sides are facing out.
Bake the Tuna Melt:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the sandwiches on a foil-lined baking sheet. Fold the foil over the sides and top, leaving a small gap at the top for airflow.
This method helps trap the heat, ensuring that the sandwich melts thoroughly. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the sandwich is heated through.
Serve:
Once the sandwiches are done, serve them immediately for the best taste. Pair your tuna melt with a side of potato chips and a pickle for a classic combo!
Tips for Making the Perfect Tuna Melt
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the tuna salad up to two days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This will save you time when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
- Draining the Tuna: Make sure to drain the tuna thoroughly. A good tip is to use tuna packed in water instead of oil since the mayo already provides enough fat for the salad.
- Bread Choices: For the best texture, choose a sturdy bread like Pepperidge Farm Farmhouse Bread, which holds up well to the weight of the ingredients and the melting process.
- Optional Add-ins: Get creative with the tuna salad by adding ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, avocado, diced apples, or even capers for an extra punch of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I store leftovers of the Tuna Melt?
If you have leftovers, let the sandwiches cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap or foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to one day. Reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
What cheese works best for a Tuna Melt?
While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also use American cheese, Swiss, or even provolone for a unique flavor twist. The key is ensuring the cheese melts evenly over the tuna filling.
Can I use canned tuna in oil for this recipe?
You can, but it’s better to use tuna packed in water. The mayonnaise already provides enough richness, and using tuna in oil can make the sandwich overly greasy.
How do I get the best texture for the Tuna Salad?
Break the tuna into small pieces so that it can fully absorb the mayo and other ingredients. This ensures each bite has a balanced flavor and the right texture.
What sides go best with a Tuna Melt?
Classic sides include potato chips, pickles, or even a side salad. For something different, try pairing your sandwich with soup, like clam chowder or tomato soup.
Tools You’ll Need for This Recipe
To make the perfect tuna melt sandwich, here are some essential tools:
- Tuna Can Strainer: This is a must-have for ensuring your tuna is properly drained.
- Silicone Spatula: Great for mixing the tuna salad ingredients without leaving any behind.
- Airtight Containers: Perfect for storing your tuna salad if you make it ahead of time.
- Lemon Squeezer: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright flavor to the tuna salad, so having a lemon squeezer can make this step easy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 627 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 46 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Sodium: 1092 mg
- Cholesterol: 107 mg
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Tuna Melt
This tuna melt recipe offers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures. With its easy oven-baked method, it guarantees a perfectly melted sandwich without the hassle of flipping.
Whether you’re making a quick lunch or dinner, this sandwich is sure to satisfy. Try it once, and it’ll become your go-to recipe for a classic tuna melt!
Reference Links
- Tuna Nutrition
- Best Bread for Sandwiches
- Benefits of Eating Tuna
- How to Make Perfect Tuna Salad
- The Science Behind Melting Cheese