Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSpringfield DinerTuna Melt Recipe

Tuna Melt Recipe

Inspired by Springfield Diner
Time25m
Serves4

Make Tuna Melt Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Tuna Salad

Method

Tuna Salad

  1. 1

    Prepare tuna

    Open and drain the canned tuna thoroughly. Transfer tuna to a medium mixing bowl and break up large chunks with a fork until flaky but not mushy.

  2. 2

    Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced red onion, diced celery, lemon juice, chopped capers, and chopped parsley to the bowl.

  3. 3

    Season with salt and black pepper. Mix gently until ingredients are evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning (add up to 1/2 tsp more salt or more lemon if desired). Set aside.

Sandwich Assembly

  1. 4

    Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat (about 350°F/175°C).

  2. 5

    Butter one side of each bread slice evenly with softened butter. The buttered sides will be the exterior for grilling.

  3. 6

    Place four bread slices butter-side down on a clean work surface. Divide the tuna salad evenly among them, spreading it to the edges but keeping a small 1/4" border to prevent overflow.

  4. 7

    Top the tuna on each slice with a tomato slice (if using) and then place two slices of cheddar cheese over the tuna (or enough to cover). Finish each sandwich with another bread slice, butter-side up.

  5. 8

    Place sandwiches in the preheated skillet (work in batches if necessary). Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Press gently with a spatula for even contact.

  6. 9

    Flip the sandwiches and cook an additional 2-4 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning too quickly before cheese melts, lower heat to medium-low and cover skillet for 1-2 minutes to trap heat and help melting.

  7. 10

    Remove sandwiches from skillet and let rest 1 minute. Slice each sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately with pickles or chips.

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