Tuna Melt on Rye Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind
A Tuna Melt on Rye is one of those comfort foods that’s perfect for any time of day—whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. It’s hearty and flavorful and perfectly balances creamy tuna salad, melty cheese, and crispy buttery bread. Let’s dive in and make a tuna melt that’ll have you returning for more!
Ingredients
- For the Tuna Salad:
- 1 can of tuna (drained)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices of rye bread
- 2 slices of your favorite cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or American)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)

Instructions
- Make the Tuna Salad
- Start by draining the canned tuna and flaking it with a fork into a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of mayo, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss in your chopped celery and red onion, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix it all, and you have a deliciously creamy tuna salad.
- Assemble the Sandwich
- Grab your rye bread and spread that tuna salad generously on one slice. Top it with 2 slices of your cheese (Swiss melts beautifully, but go with whatever you like). Place the second slice of bread on top to close the sandwich.
- Grill the Sandwich
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter the outside of both slices of bread—this will give you that golden, crispy crust. Place the sandwich in the skillet and grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is perfectly browned and the cheese melts gooey perfection.
Serving Suggestions
You can’t go wrong with a classic side. Pair your Tuna Melt with a few pickles, a side of crispy chips, or even a light green salad to balance it all out. And if you’re feeling fancy, add a few slices of fresh tomato or lettuce inside the sandwich for some extra freshness.
Variations
Tuna melts are so customizable! If you prefer something other than rye bread, you can switch it up with whole wheat, sourdough, or whatever bread you have on hand. Want to get creative with the tuna salad? Toss capers, olives, or chopped hard-boiled eggs for added texture and flavor.
Pro Tips
- For super crispy bread: Press lightly on the sandwich while grilling to ensure every inch of it gets golden and crispy.
- Healthier twist: Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to make the salad slightly lighter.
Conclusion
There you have it—a Tuna Melt on Rye that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with just the right amount of crispy and creamy. So next time you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, comforting, and downright delicious, you know what to make!
