Cheese Choice For Tuna Melts: The Perfect Pairing

Tuna melts are a classic sandwich, but what kind of cheese should you use? The answer depends on your personal preference, but traditionally, tuna melts are made with cheddar cheese. However, other types of cheese such as American, provolone, Swiss, or Monterey jack are also popular choices. For the best melting results, it is recommended to use a soft, young cheese.

Tuna melt sandwich toppings

Tuna melt sandwiches are a tasty treat, and there are several toppings you can add to make them even more delicious.

The classic tuna melt is made with a combination of tuna fish, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and parsley, all mixed together to create a creamy, flavourful base. This is then layered with cheese and tomato and melted together in a skillet or broiled.

For the cheese, cheddar is a popular choice, but you can also use asiago, jalapeño jack, Colby jack, American, provolone, Muenster, Swiss, or Havarti.

Now, let's get into some more specific topping ideas to take your tuna melt to the next level:

• Pickles add a crunchy texture and a tangy, briny flavour. You can use dill pickles, sweet pickles, or even pickle relish.
• Capers will give a burst of briny flavour in each bite.
• Avocado slices add a creamy texture and a boost of healthy fats.
• Lettuce provides extra crunch and freshness. You can use butter lettuce, iceberg lettuce, or even lettuce wraps as a low-carb alternative to bread.
• Tomato slices add a juicy, fresh element that pairs well with the melted cheese.
• Red onion gives a tangy bite and a crunchy texture. You can also use green onion or pickled red onions.
• Mustard adds a zing of flavour. Try Dijon mustard or whole-grain mustard.
• Spices and herbs like black pepper, parsley, chives, or scallions enhance the flavour and add a punch of colour.
• Steak seasoning may sound unusual, but it takes your tuna melt from good to great!
• Hot sauce and kettle-style potato chips on the side are a must for some.

Tuna melt cheese options

The classic tuna melt sandwich is a delightful combination of a hot tuna salad and cheese, grilled to perfection between two slices of bread. While the choice of cheese is versatile, the key is to opt for varieties that melt well and complement the other ingredients. Here are some popular options to consider:

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar is a popular choice for tuna melts, adding a sharp, savoury flavour to the sandwich. It melts reasonably well, especially when paired with another cheese like American cheese. For the best melting results, opt for a mild or young cheddar as the sharper and more aged varieties tend to be less melty.

American Cheese

American cheese is a common variety used in tuna melts, known for its gooey, melty texture. It pairs well with other cheeses like cheddar and provolone, enhancing their melting capabilities.

Provolone

Provolone is another excellent melting cheese, often used in combination with American cheese. It adds a nice, subtle tang to the sandwich.

Swiss Cheese

Swiss cheese is a versatile option that melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture to the tuna melt.

Monterey Jack

Monterey Jack is a mild, semi-soft cheese that melts well and can add a nice kick to your tuna melt if you opt for the jalapeño variety.

Other Options

Other cheeses that melt well and can be considered for tuna melts include Asiago, Colby Jack, Muenster, and Havarti. For a truly indulgent option, you could even use Brie.

Tuna melt bread options

A tuna melt is a sandwich with a filling of tuna and cheese. It is a twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich. To make a good tuna melt, it is important to choose a bread that can withstand the moist filling. Here are some bread options that are recommended for tuna melts:

Sourdough

Sourdough is a type of bread made with a sourdough starter, which gives it a tangy flavour and a chewy texture. It is a popular choice for tuna melts because of its sturdy texture, which can stand up to the rich filling without becoming soggy. Sourdough bread is also versatile and can be paired with various cheeses, such as sharp Cheddar, Swiss, Provolone, Mozzarella, and Gouda.

French or Italian Bread

French or Italian bread is often recommended for tuna melts because of its sturdy texture. It can hold up to the weight of the filling and provides a nice crunch when toasted.

Ciabatta

Ciabatta is an Italian bread with a crisp crust and a soft, airy texture. It is a good option for a tuna melt because of its sturdiness and ability to hold up to the filling. Ciabatta also has a neutral flavour that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sandwich.

Rye or Whole Wheat Bread

Rye and whole wheat bread are denser and chewier than some other types of bread, making them a good choice for holding up to the weight of the tuna melt filling. They add a bit of extra flavour to the sandwich as well.

Croissant

For a more indulgent option, a croissant can be used for a tuna melt. The flaky, buttery layers of a croissant can add a unique texture and flavour to the sandwich. However, because of its flakiness, a croissant may not hold up as well to the moist filling.

When choosing bread for a tuna melt, it is important to consider the texture and flavour of the bread. A sturdy, dense bread is usually best to prevent sogginess and to hold up to the weight of the filling. Experimenting with different types of bread and cheeses can help you find your preferred combination for this ultimate comfort food sandwich!

Tuna melt sides

Tuna melts are a delicious and comforting sandwich, perfect for lunch or dinner. The ultimate comfort food, this sandwich is a delightful combination of flavours and textures. The classic tuna melt is made with a flavorful fish mixture, melty cheese, and freshly sliced tomatoes, all melted together on crispy, golden bread.

While tuna melts are already pretty satisfying, adding the right sides can make the meal extra special. Here are some side dish ideas to elevate your tuna melt:

Classic Sides

Classic pairings for tuna melts are similar to those of any sandwich, but some suit tuna exceptionally well.

• Coleslaw: A classic side, coleslaw is a refreshing and crunchy addition to the creamy tuna melt. The combination of shredded cabbage, carrots, and tangy dressing provides a burst of flavour and a pleasant contrast to the thick bread and soft tuna mayo.
• Crunchy Vegetables: Carrots, cucumbers, and celery sticks are easy to serve and provide a satisfying crunch to accompany the soft tuna melt.
• Pickles: Tangy and slightly sweet, pickles are a simple yet flavourful side that enhances the taste of tuna melts. They add a zesty touch and cut through the richness of the sandwich.
• Chips: Thick-cut chips, French fries, or sweet potato fries are a great way to add a filling element to your meal. Crispy, golden fries offer a comforting taste that pairs well with the rich flavours of the sandwich.
• Wedges: Chunky skin-on wedges with salt and pepper are a fantastic alternative to chips, adding a lovely taste and texture to your tuna melt lunch.

Creative Sides

If you're looking for something a little different, try these creative side dishes:

• Tomato Basil Soup: A classic side, tomato soup pairs perfectly with the tuna melt. The tangy and slightly sweet soup complements the savoury taste of the tuna and cheese, creating a harmonious flavour combination.
• Salads: A crunchy green salad, avocado and corn salad, or cucumber salad add freshness and texture to your meal. For a sophisticated touch, try a Caprese salad with ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
• Potato Salad: A hearty and delicious side, potato salad goes well with tuna melts. The creamy potatoes and savory dressing complement the flavours of the sandwich.
• Blooming Onion: A blooming onion adds a fun twist to your meal. The crispy, fried onion petals provide a delicious crunch and a slightly sweet taste that pairs well with the savoury sandwich.

Healthy Alternatives

For a lighter and healthier option, try these sides:

• Steamed or Air-fried Vegetables: Healthy, fresh, and juicy, steamed or air-fried veggies add colour, texture, and flavour to your meal.
• Fruit: A bowl of mixed fruit or a fruit salad is a great way to add a refreshing and healthy sweetness to your dish.
• Yogurt: Yogurt is a creamy, filling, and healthy addition to your lunch. Add some fruit for extra flavour.
• Drinks: A light fruit juice, iced tea, or a glass of white wine can complement your tuna melt and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich.

So, there you have it! Whether you're looking for classic sides, creative dishes, or healthy alternatives, there are plenty of options to elevate your tuna melt and make it a well-rounded dining experience.

Tuna melt cooking methods

Tuna melts are a classic American diner food, and there are a few ways to cook them. The key to achieving perfectly melted cheese and golden bread is to toast the sandwich over medium-low heat.

Broiling

Butter your bread on one side, and place the unbuttered side facing down on a baking sheet. Broil for a couple of minutes, then top with cheese, tuna mixture, and broil for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Skillet

Butter your bread on one side, and place the unbuttered side facing down on a skillet heated to medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the cheese starts to melt and the sandwich is golden brown. Flip the sandwich and cook until the cheese is fully melted and the sandwich is golden brown.

Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Generously butter one side of each slice of bread, then pile on the tuna salad, tomato, and cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing up. Place the sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5-8 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.

Tips

• For the "melt" aspect, use a melty cheese like American, Monterey Jack, Swiss, or Cheddar.
• Use a soft, young cheese for maximum meltability.
• For a crunchy texture, add iceberg lettuce or potato chips.
• For a classic, squishy/crisp bite, use classic, soft, white bread.
• For a healthier option, wrap your tuna melt in a lettuce wrap, use keto bread, or have it open-faced.

Frequently asked questions