Description
If you’re craving something quick, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Jalapeño Cheddar Tuna Melts! Combining the zesty heat of jalapeños with creamy tuna salad, melty cheddar, and crispy bread, these sandwiches are an elevated take on a classic comfort food. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying snack, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or regular mustard)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup diced jalapeños (fresh or jarred)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, rye, or your favorite sandwich bread)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Salad
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
- Stir in the diced jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place 2 slices, buttered side down, on a baking sheet or skillet.
- Spread an even layer of the tuna mixture on top of each slice.
- Sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese over the tuna mixture.
- Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
Step 3: Cook the Melts
- Heat a skillet over medium heat or preheat your oven’s broiler.
- If using a skillet: Grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- If using the broiler: Broil open-faced sandwiches (without the top slice of bread) for 2–3 minutes, then place the top slice on and press gently.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: For milder melts, remove the seeds from the jalapeños or use fewer. For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture.
- Choose the Right Bread: Use sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta to hold up to the creamy filling.
- Go Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of cheese on both sides of the tuna for maximum gooeyness.
- Make It Healthier: Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or use low-fat cheddar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American