The Open Faced Tuna Melt is a classic comfort meal that is quick and satisfying. This Open Faced Tuna Melt Recipe is perfect for busy days or simple lunches. It uses basic ingredients that most kitchens already have. The tuna mixture is creamy, flavorful and rich. Melted cheese on top adds the perfect finish.
This recipe is beginner friendly and very flexible. In this guide, you will learn How to make Open Faced Tuna Melt step by step. You will also discover the best Ingredients for Open Faced Tuna Melt for great taste every time.
The Secret Behind This Delicious
The secret behind a great open faced tuna melt is balance. Good quality tuna gives the best flavor and texture. Draining the tuna well prevents soggy bread. A small amount of mayonnaise keeps the mixture creamy without being heavy.
Mustard or lemon juice adds brightness. Toasting the bread slightly before adding tuna helps keep it crisp. Using the right cheese ensures smooth melting. Baking just until bubbly prevents dryness. These small steps make a big difference.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Open Faced Tuna Melt
- Servings: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Course: Lunch or Snack
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Mixing bowl
- Fork
- Measuring spoons
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Toaster or oven
- Spoon or spatula
Ingredients You Need for Open Faced Tuna Melt
- 1 can tuna, drained well
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped celery
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 slices bread
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- Optional sliced tomatoes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to broil or 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Tuna
Add tuna to a bowl. Use a fork to break it into small flakes evenly.
3. Add Creamy Ingredients
Add mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy but not watery.
4. Add Crunch
Stir in chopped onion and celery. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toast the Bread
Lightly toast bread slices. This helps prevent sogginess during baking.
6. Assemble the Melt
Place toast on baking tray. Spoon tuna mixture evenly over each slice.
7. Add Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the tuna mixture on each slice.
8. Bake Until Melted
Bake or broil until cheese melts and bubbles lightly. This takes about five minutes.
9. Cool and Serve
Remove from oven. Let cool briefly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use solid white albacore tuna for better texture and flavor.
- Add pickles or relish for extra tang and crunch.
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Try cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese for different flavors.
- Add sliced tomatoes before cheese for a fresh taste.
- Use whole wheat or sourdough bread for more texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Open Faced Tuna Melt hot and fresh from the oven. Pair it with a green salad for balance. Tomato soup is a classic and comforting side. Serve with cucumber slices or coleslaw for crunch. It also works well as a light dinner option. Add fresh herbs on top for extra color and flavor. This dish is great for quick meals and casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Open Faced Tuna Melt is best enjoyed fresh. Store leftover tuna mixture in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep it in an airtight container. Do not store assembled melts, as bread becomes soggy. Reheat tuna mixture gently before assembling again. If reheating assembled melts, use an oven instead of microwave for better texture.
Open Faced Tuna Melt Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can tuna drained well
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped celery
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 slices bread
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- Optional sliced tomatoes
Instructions
Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to broil or 400°F. Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix the Tuna
- Add tuna to a bowl. Use a fork to break it into small flakes evenly.
Add Creamy Ingredients
- Add mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until creamy but not watery.
Add Crunch
- Stir in chopped onion and celery. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Toast the Bread
- Lightly toast bread slices. This helps prevent sogginess during baking.
Assemble the Melt
- Place toast on baking tray. Spoon tuna mixture evenly over each slice.
Add Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the tuna mixture on each slice.
Bake Until Melted
- Bake or broil until cheese melts and bubbles lightly. This takes about five minutes.
Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven. Let cool briefly before serving for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use solid white albacore tuna for better texture and flavor.
- Add pickles or relish for extra tang and crunch.
- Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Try cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese for different flavors.
- Add sliced tomatoes before cheese for a fresh taste.
- Use whole wheat or sourdough bread for more texture.
FAQs About Open Faced Tuna Melt
Can I make Open Faced Tuna Melt ahead of time?
You can prepare the tuna mixture ahead and store it chilled. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.
What cheese works best for tuna melts?
Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella and Swiss melt well. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly and tastes mild.
How do I keep my tuna melt from getting soggy?
Drain tuna very well and toast bread lightly. Avoid adding too much mayonnaise to the mixture.
Can I make this recipe without an oven?
Yes, use a covered skillet on low heat. Let cheese melt slowly while keeping bread crisp.
Is this Open Faced Tuna Melt Recipe healthy?
It is balanced with protein and can be lighter using yogurt and whole grain bread options.
Conclusion
This Open Faced Tuna Melt Recipe is simple, comforting, and full of flavor. It uses basic ingredients and quick steps. Anyone can learn How to make Open Faced Tuna Melt at home easily.
The creamy tuna and melted cheese create a satisfying meal every time. With helpful tips and variations, this recipe fits many tastes. Try it once, and it may become your favorite quick lunch option.
Sofia Lane is a food lover who loves cooking and sharing easy, tasty recipes. She believes in making cooking simple and fun for everyone. On DiveCrave, Sofia shares her favorite meals, desserts and treats that anyone can make at home.