Tuna melt rematch
Tuna melt rematch is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 420 calories per serving. Recipe by Andy Cooks on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 20 min
Cost: $3.62 total, $1.81 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 can Canned Tuna in Water (drained, about 5 oz)
- 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (full‑fat for best flavor)
- 1 stalk Celery (finely diced)
- 1 tablespoon Red Onion (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 4 slices Sharp Cheddar Cheese (full‑fat, sliced)
- 4 slices Sourdough Bread (thick‑cut)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (softened, for spreading)
Instructions
Prepare Tuna Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, minced red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir with a fork until evenly mixed but still slightly chunky.
Time: PT5M
Butter the Bread
Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This will be the side that contacts the skillet.
Time: PT2M
Assemble Sandwiches
Place a slice of cheddar on the un‑buttered side of two bread slices. Top with a generous spoonful of tuna mixture, then add another slice of cheddar and the remaining bread slice, buttered side up.
Time: PT2M
Cook the Tuna Melt
Heat the skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sandwiches and cook 2‑3 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium heat
Rest and Serve
Transfer the sandwiches to a plate, let rest for 1 minute, then cut diagonally and serve immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 420
- Protein
- 28g
- Carbohydrates
- 30g
- Fat
- 22g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains gluten, Contains fish
Allergens: Fish, Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Canned Tuna in Water: canned salmon, cooked shredded chicken
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt, sour cream
- Instead of Celery: dill pickle relish, green onion
- Instead of Red Onion: shallot, white onion
- Instead of Lemon Juice: white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar
- Instead of Salt: sea salt, kosher salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Swiss, Gruyère, American cheese
- Instead of Sourdough Bread: whole‑wheat bread, rye bread
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: margarine, olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Fork
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Skillet or Panini Press
- Spatula
- Measuring Spoons
- Plate for Assembling
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Mix tuna filling until evenly combined but not over‑mixed.
- Butter the bread evenly to achieve a crisp crust.
- Cook on medium heat; too high will burn the bread before cheese melts.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a sharp cheddar for a richer flavor; for extra crunch, add a thin slice of tomato before cooking.
- If you have a panini press, pre‑heat it and press the sandwich for an even melt and grill.
Troubleshooting
Bread is burnt before cheese melts
Reduce heat to medium‑low and cover the pan briefly to trap steam.
Filling is too dry
Add an extra teaspoon of mayonnaise or a drizzle of olive oil.
Sandwich falls apart when cutting
Press the sandwich gently while cooking and let it rest 1 minute before slicing.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftover tuna mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended for the assembled sandwich; bread may become soggy.
Room temperature: Do not leave assembled sandwich at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the tuna mixture up to 24 hours ahead and keep refrigerated; bring to room temperature before assembling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of the Tuna Melt in American cuisine?
The Tuna Melt emerged in the United States during the mid‑20th century as a quick, protein‑rich sandwich that combined pantry‑staple canned tuna with melted cheese, reflecting post‑war convenience cooking. It became a staple in diners and school cafeterias, symbolizing comfort food that’s easy to prepare at home.
What regional variations of Tuna Melt exist within the United States?
In the Pacific Northwest, many add avocado or use sourdough; in the South, a touch of hot sauce or Cajun seasoning is common. Some New England versions swap cheddar for Swiss and include sliced tomato for extra moisture.
How is a traditional Tuna Melt traditionally served in American diners?
A classic diner serves the Tuna Melt on toasted rye or sourdough, often with a side of pickles and a small salad, and the sandwich is usually cut diagonally and eaten hot while the cheese is still gooey.
On what occasions is the Tuna Melt traditionally enjoyed in American culture?
The Tuna Melt is popular for quick lunches, casual brunches, and as a comforting dinner on busy weeknights. It’s also a common offering at potlucks and school lunch programs.
What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional Tuna Melt versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include canned tuna in water, sharp cheddar cheese, buttered toasted bread, and a light mayo‑based dressing. Substitutes can include canned salmon for the tuna, Swiss cheese for cheddar, or olive oil in place of butter for a lighter crust.
What other American dishes pair well with a Tuna Melt?
A Tuna Melt pairs nicely with classic sides such as coleslaw, potato chips, a simple green salad, or a bowl of tomato soup, creating a balanced meal of protein, carbs, and vegetables.
What makes the Tuna Melt special or unique in American sandwich cuisine?
The Tuna Melt uniquely combines the flaky texture of tuna salad with the indulgent melt of cheese, offering both a hearty protein filling and a comforting, gooey topping that sets it apart from typical cold tuna sandwiches.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a Tuna Melt at home?
Common mistakes include using too much mayo, which makes the filling soggy, over‑buttering the bread causing excess grease, and cooking on too high heat which burns the bread before the cheese melts. Follow the critical steps for balanced seasoning and proper heat control.
Why does this Tuna Melt recipe use medium heat instead of high heat for cooking?
Medium heat allows the bread to toast evenly while giving the cheese enough time to melt fully without scorching the crust. High heat would brown the bread too quickly, leaving the cheese unmelted.
Can I make the Tuna Melt ahead of time and how should I store it before serving?
Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwich just before cooking, or keep assembled sandwiches wrapped and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before grilling.
What does the YouTube channel Andy Cooks specialize in?
The YouTube channel Andy Cooks specializes in straightforward, home‑cooked recipes that focus on classic comfort foods and quick weeknight meals, often using pantry staples and minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Andy Cooks' approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Andy Cooks emphasizes speed, simplicity, and budget‑friendly ingredients, providing clear step‑by‑step narration and practical tips for everyday cooks, whereas many other channels may focus on gourmet techniques or elaborate plating.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
