Tuna Melt.

Tuna Melt. is a easy American recipe that serves 1. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by Cooking with Kandice Nicole on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 30 min

Cost: $3.66 total, $3.66 per serving

Ingredients

  • 5 oz Canned Tuna in Water (drained well)
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion (finely diced)
  • 2 tbsp Celery (finely diced)
  • 1 tbsp Banana Peppers (finely diced, seeds removed if desired)
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp Yellow Mustard (smooth)
  • 1/4 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/4 tsp Sea Salt
  • 1/2 lemon Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 slices Sourdough Bread (thick cut, preferably day‑old)
  • 2 slices Monterey Jack Cheese (full‑fat, sliced)

Instructions

  1. Drain Tuna

    Open the canned tuna and drain it thoroughly using a fine‑mesh sieve or by pressing the lid to remove excess liquid.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Prep Vegetables

    Dice the red onion, celery, and banana peppers into very small pieces. If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Combine Filling

    In the mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped vegetables, mayonnaise, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, sea salt, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix until evenly coated.

    Time: PT3M

  4. Assemble Sandwich

    Lay one slice of sourdough on a clean surface, place a slice of Monterey Jack cheese on it, spread the tuna mixture evenly, then top with the second slice of cheese and the remaining bread slice.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Preheat Skillet

    Place the skillet over medium heat and let it warm for about two minutes. A drop of water should sizzle lightly when the pan is ready.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium heat

  6. Grill the Sandwich

    Add a thin layer of butter or oil to the skillet (optional). Place the sandwich in the pan, press gently with the spatula, and cook 3‑4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Flip and cook another 3‑4 minutes on the other side.

    Time: PT8M

    Temperature: medium heat

  7. Rest and Serve

    Remove the sandwich from the pan, let it rest for about a minute, then slice diagonally and serve while hot and gooey.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
460
Protein
28g
Carbohydrates
38g
Fat
22g
Fiber
2g

Dietary info: Can be made gluten‑free with GF bread, Can be made dairy‑free with vegan cheese, Low‑carb version: use lettuce wrap instead of bread

Allergens: Fish, Dairy, Gluten, Mustard

Last updated: March 12, 2026

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Tuna Melt.

Recipe by Cooking with Kandice Nicole

A classic tuna melt sandwich packed with tuna, red onion, celery, banana peppers, mayo, mustard, and melted Monterey Jack on toasted sourdough. Quick, flavorful, and perfect for lunch or a hearty snack.

EasyAmericanServes 1

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
15m
Prep
8m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
33m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.66
Total cost
$3.66
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid soggy sandwich
  • Mix tuna filling until evenly coated with seasonings
  • Cook sandwich on medium heat until cheese fully melts and bread is golden brown

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot skillet with care to avoid burns
  • Ensure canned tuna is properly drained to prevent excess moisture

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Tuna Melt Sandwich in American cuisine?

A

The Tuna Melt emerged in the United States during the mid‑20th century as a convenient, protein‑rich sandwich that combined the popularity of canned tuna with the comfort of a grilled cheese. It became a staple in diners and lunch counters, especially during the post‑war era when quick, affordable meals were in high demand.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Tuna Melt in the United States?

A

In the Northeast, many use rye or pumpernickel bread and add dill pickles. The West Coast often incorporates avocado or sprouts, while Southern versions may feature pepper jack cheese and a dash of hot sauce. Each variation reflects local ingredient preferences.

cultural
Q

How is a classic Tuna Melt traditionally served in American diners?

A

A classic Tuna Melt is served hot on toasted bread, cut diagonally, and often accompanied by a pickle spear or a small side salad. It is typically eaten with the hands, making it a popular casual lunch item.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is the Tuna Melt traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

The Tuna Melt is a go‑to sandwich for quick family lunches, office pot‑lucks, and casual gatherings. Its simplicity also makes it a favorite for late‑night snack runs after work or school.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients define a traditional Tuna Melt versus common substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include canned tuna in water, mayonnaise, mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, sea salt, lemon juice, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, and sturdy bread like sourdough. Substitutes such as Greek yogurt for mayo or different cheeses are acceptable but alter the classic flavor profile.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with a Tuna Melt sandwich?

A

A Tuna Melt pairs nicely with classic sides like potato chips, coleslaw, a crisp garden salad, or a bowl of tomato soup. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple corn chowder.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a Tuna Melt at home?

A

Common mistakes include not draining the tuna fully, using overly wet vegetables, cooking the sandwich on too high heat which burns the bread before the cheese melts, and over‑seasoning the filling. Follow the critical steps to ensure a balanced, crispy result.

technical
Q

Why does this Tuna Melt recipe use Monterey Jack cheese instead of cheddar?

A

Monterey Jack melts more smoothly and has a mild buttery flavor that complements the tuna without overpowering it. Cheddar can be used, but it may introduce a sharper taste and a slightly grainier melt.

technical
Q

Can I make the Tuna Melt ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the tuna filling up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwich just before cooking; if pre‑assembled, store it wrapped in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for best texture.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Cooking with Kandice Nicole specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Cooking with Kandice Nicole focuses on easy, family‑friendly recipes that emphasize bold flavors, quick preparation, and practical cooking tips for everyday home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Cooking with Kandice Nicole's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Cooking with Kandice Nicole blends straightforward techniques with personal flavor twists—like using banana peppers for extra zing—while keeping recipes accessible and budget‑friendly, setting her apart from channels that favor elaborate plating or exotic ingredients.

channel

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