Sep 05 2026
RestaurantsSnarf's SandwichesTuna & American Cheese Recipe

Tuna & American Cheese Recipe

Inspired by Snarf's Sandwiches
Time20m
Serves4

Make Tuna & American Cheese Recipe in just 20m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Filling

Method

Filling

  1. 1

    Drain and flake tuna

    Open the canned tuna and fully drain the liquid. Transfer tuna to a medium mixing bowl and use a fork to break the chunks into small flakes.

  2. 2

    Combine flavorings

    Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced red onion, diced celery, sweet pickle relish (if using), and lemon juice to the bowl with tuna.

  3. 3

    Season and mix

    Season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything until evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more mayo for creaminess, more mustard for tang, or more lemon for brightness. Set filling aside.

Sandwich Assembly & Finish

  1. 4

    Prepare bread

    Lay out 8 slices of bread. Spread a thin, even layer of softened butter on one side of each slice; this will be the exterior if toasting/grilling. If you prefer untoasted sandwiches, you can omit butter or spread it on the inside for flavor.

  2. 5

    Assemble sandwiches

    Place 4 unbuttered-side-up bread slices on your work surface. Divide the tuna filling evenly among them (about 2.5 ounces/70 g tuna per sandwich). Top each portion of tuna with one American cheese slice. Add lettuce and tomato slices if using. Close sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.

  3. 6

    Optional: Grill/toast

    Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted. Alternatively, use a panini press or toaster oven and cook until cheese is melted and bread is crisp.

  4. 7

    Serve

    Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board, let rest 1 minute, then cut in half diagonally if desired. Serve immediately with pickles, chips, or a simple salad.

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