Craving a quick, comforting meal? This Tuna Melt Panini recipe is the answer! With its flaky tuna, gooey melted cheese, and crispy bread, this sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Learn how to make this easy, cheesy delight in just 15 minutes!
Why Youâll Love This Sandwich
The tuna and cheese melt panini is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons:
- Itâs quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Itâs customizableâadd your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
- Itâs a great way to use pantry staples like canned tuna and bread.
- Itâs a balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, and carbs.
Whether youâre a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this tuna cheese melt panini recipe is foolproof and delicious.
Ingredients Youâll Need
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tbsp red onion, minced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or whole grain work great)
- 1 tbsp butter (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional add-ins: pickle relish, jalapeños, or a slice of tomato
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, and shredded cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Assemble the Sandwich
Lay out your bread slices and evenly distribute the tuna mixture between two slices. If youâre adding extras like tomato or jalapeños, layer them on top of the tuna. Top with the remaining bread slices. - Grill the Panini
Preheat your panini press or a skillet over medium heat. Lightly butter the outside of each bread slice. Place the sandwich in the panini press or skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If using a skillet, press down gently with a spatula and flip halfway through cooking.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice your tuna melt panini in half and serve warm. Pair it with a side of chips, a pickle, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
If youâre watching your calorie intake, you might be wondering, how many calories are in a tuna melt panini? On average, a homemade tuna melt panini contains around 350-450 calories, depending on the ingredients you use. For example, using light mayonnaise or skipping the butter can reduce the calorie count. If youâre curious about how many calories are in a Costa tuna melt panini, it typically ranges between 500-600 calories due to larger portion sizes and added ingredients.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality bread: A sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta holds up well to grilling and adds great texture.
- Donât skip the cheese: The melted cheese is what makes this sandwich irresistible. Cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack are great options.
- Add a crunch: Celery and red onion add a nice crunch, but feel free to experiment with other veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.
- Customize the flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of paprika, or a squeeze of lemon juice to elevate the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to make a tuna melt panini without a panini press?
No panini press? No problem! Use a skillet and place a heavy pan or foil-wrapped brick on top of the sandwich to press it down while cooking.
2. Can I make a tuna melt panini ahead of time?
While itâs best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the tuna mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and grill the sandwich when ready to eat.
3. How many calories are in a Costa tuna melt panini?
A Costa tuna melt panini typically contains around 500-600 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese would work beautifully in this recipe.
5. Is a tuna melt panini healthy?
It can be! Use whole-grain bread, light mayonnaise, and load up on veggies to make it a healthier option. Tuna is also a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Final Thoughts
The tuna melt panini is a timeless classic thatâs both comforting and easy to make. With its creamy tuna filling, melted cheese, and crispy bread, itâs a meal that never disappoints. Whether youâre making it for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and start grilling! And if you have any other questions about how to make a tuna melt panini, drop them in the comments below. Happy cooking!