Spicy Tuna Melt Sandwich (Printable)

A classic comfort sandwich with zesty tuna salad, sriracha kick, and melted cheddar cheese on toasted sourdough.

# Required Ingredients:

→ Spicy Tuna Salad

01 - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
02 - 1/3 cup mayonnaise
03 - 1 tablespoon sriracha or hot sauce
04 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
05 - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
06 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
08 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Sandwich Assembly

09 - 8 slices sourdough bread
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
11 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 - 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced

# Directions:

01 - Combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, parsley, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
02 - Lay out sourdough bread slices and butter one side of each slice generously.
03 - Position 4 bread slices with unbuttered side facing up. Divide spicy tuna salad evenly among slices. Top each with shredded cheese and tomato slices.
04 - Place remaining bread slices on top with buttered side facing outward, creating complete sandwiches.
05 - Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese melts completely.
06 - Slice sandwiches in half and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It comes together in twenty minutes but tastes like you put in real effort.
  • The spicy tuna filling has just enough kick to keep things interesting without overwhelming the creamy, melted cheese.
  • You can adjust the heat level to match your mood or who you are feeding.
  • Leftovers reheat surprisingly well, and the tuna salad keeps in the fridge for quick assembly later.
02 -
  • Drain the tuna really well or the salad will be watery and slide out of the sandwich.
  • Medium heat is crucial, too high and the bread burns before the cheese melts.
  • Let the butter soften before spreading so it goes on evenly without tearing the bread.
03 -
  • Press the sandwiches gently with a spatula while cooking to help the cheese melt faster and the bread crisp evenly.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one, it holds heat beautifully and gives the bread an even golden color.
  • If making multiple sandwiches, keep finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest.
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