Chef John’s Gourmet Tuna Melt: A Classic American Sandwich Reimagined

How to Make a Tuna Melt: A Classic American Lunch

The moment you bite into this hot, cheesy tuna melt, you’ll know why Chef John’s secret specialty is so beloved.

Why You’ll Love This Tuna Melt Recipe

This open-faced sandwich is the ultimate comfort food. Imagine flaky tuna salad mixed with melty cheese, nestled on golden, buttered bread. It’s a quick lunch and a crowd-pleaser any day of the week.

Chef John’s Secret Twist

Chef John adds a hint of chile paste and briny capers to boost the flavor. This unexpected ingredient turns a simple tuna melt into a gourmet delight.

Ingredients for the Best Tuna Melt

• 1 (6.5 ounce) jar oil-packed tuna, drained
• 2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon capers, drained
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon chile paste (e.g., Sriracha)
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, torn into small pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 4 slices bread (sourdough or rye work best)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place tuna into a mixing bowl and lightly break it apart with a fork.
2. Add celery, green onion, capers, mayonnaise, and chile paste. Pinch in mozzarella and stir to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate the tuna salad until ready to use.
4. Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each bread slice.
5. On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread the chilled tuna mixture. Top with the remaining bread, buttered side out.
6. Grill each sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is gooey.
7. Slice in half and serve immediately for the perfect melty tuna melt.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 594 kcal | 23 g carbs | 36 g protein | 40 g fat | 16 g saturated fat | 918 mg sodium | 2 g sugar | 1 g fiber.

Tips for the Ultimate Tuna Melt

• Cheese swap: Try sharp cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for extra zing.
• Add crunch: Layer on tomato slices or crisp pickle chips.
• Spice it up: Stir in Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to keep the bread crisp and the cheese melty.

Enjoy this ultimate comfort food: the classic tuna melt.