Name: Jalapeño Cheddar Tuna Melts
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained; ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat); ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional); 4 slices sourdough or whole wheat bread; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for melting); 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)

Description

There’s nothing better than Jalapeño Cheddar Tuna Melts—crispy, golden bread filled with creamy, cheesy tuna salad and a kick of spicy jalapeños. This easy and satisfying sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or game-day snack!

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Tuna Salad:

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 small jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional)

For the Sandwiches:

4 slices sourdough or whole wheat bread
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for melting)
1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tuna Salad

In a mixing bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Stir in diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions (if using).

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
Place buttered side down on a skillet over medium heat.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese on one slice, then spread tuna mixture evenly on top.
Place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side up.

Step 3: Grill the Tuna Melts

Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute before slicing.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Slice in half and serve hot with pickles, chips, or a side salad.

Notes

Use Sourdough or Rye Bread – They hold up well to the filling.
For Extra Heat – Add red pepper flakes or an extra jalapeño.
For a Crunchier Texture – Use panko breadcrumbs in the tuna mixture.
Make It Open-Faced – Toast the bread first, then broil with cheese on top.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American