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Easy Air Fryer Tuna Melt


  • Author: Marlene Quinn
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Regular

Description

A quick and comforting sandwich that modernizes the classic tuna melt using an air fryer for a crispy, buttery finish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (5 oz) cans solid or chunk canned tuna, drained
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped celery
  • 1 tablespoon chopped chives
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Smoked paprika or cayenne, to taste
  • 34 slices of cheese (sharp cheddar, Swiss, or gruyère)
  • 4 slices of bread (sourdough, whole grain, or pull-apart loaf)
  • Butter or olive oil for brushing
  • Optional: sautéed mushrooms, fresh herbs (parsley, chives), or capers

Instructions

  1. Drain tuna thoroughly and flake into a bowl. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix to combine.
  2. Fold in celery and chives, seasoning with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  3. Butter one side of the bread slices. Place two slices, butter-side down, on a surface and divide the tuna mixture over them. Top with cheese.
  4. Cover with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up. Optionally brush the tops with melted butter.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Cook the sandwiches for 4 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes until golden and melty.
  6. Rest for a minute, slice diagonally, and serve hot.

Notes

Make sure the tuna is well-drained to avoid sogginess. Optional ingredients like mushrooms or herbs can enhance flavor.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: tuna melt, air fryer recipe, quick dinner, comfort food, sandwich