A fun twist on the classic sandwich, this Tuna Melt Panini starts with a crunch and ends with a cheesy, flavor packed tuna mixture in the center!
Tuna and Cheese Melt Panini
Years ago, I was scrolling through Facebook and came across a post from a neighbor that was selling her panini press. I had wanted to try one out but didn’t know if I wanted to commit to yet another kitchen appliance that I may or may not use down the road.
Since the deal was one I couldn’t pass up, I purchased it, came home, and immediately set out trying my first panini. I kept it simple with only some turkey, cheese, and mayo. The bread crisped up perfectly, everything melted together, and I knew paninis were my new favorite lunch option!
Tuna Melts are something I grew up enjoying, so I knew I just had to make one into a panini. Using a few simple ingredients, this came together in no time and was packed with flavor! Anytime that tuna craving hits, I simply pull out my press, throw a few ingredients together, and these paninis are ready in no time! Definitely a tried-and-true family favorite!
What is a Panini?
A panini or panino is a sandwich made with Italian bread. They are sometimes served warm after grilling or toasting. In many English-speaking countries, the name panini is given to a grilled sandwich made from any type of Italian bread, typically Focaccia or Ciabatta.
Why I love this recipe:
- Quick – Only 10 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a busy weekday lunch, and you can even make the tuna mixture in advance, for meal prep.
- Healthy – Lots of protein and fairly low in calorie. Use tuna packed in water or in the pouch.
- Family favorite – This is a great change from normal lunch sandwiches, and adults and kids love it!
Ingredients Needed for a Tuna Melt Panini:
- Tuna- I use the pouches as they are much easier. Simply open the pouch, pour into a bowl and add ingredients. No draining necessary.
- Cottage cheese- feel free to use low-fat to save on calories
- Mayonnaise- I use avocado oil mayonnaise, use whatever you have on hand
- Purple onion- diced finely
- Lemon juice- fresh is best
- Dijon mustard– you can even use jalapeno mustard for an added kick
- Focaccia bread- or Ciabatta rolls work great too
- Sliced Cheese- I love cheddar cheese, pepperjack, American, or Provolone cheese on these, use whatever you prefer though
How to make a Classic Tuna Melt
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In a bowl, combine all ingredients minus the bread and cheese.
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Spoon tuna mixture onto one side of the bread.
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Place one slice of cheese on top of tuna and cover to create sandwich.
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Preheat your panini press or griddle.
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Place sandwich on to press and close lid. Allow to cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and sandwich is toasted. *If using a griddle or pan, cook on each side for a few minutes, to toast evenly.
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Remove from griddle/press and serve.
Storage Instructions
To Make Ahead: The tuna filling can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. Great for meal prep and quick lunches.
To Store: Keep the tuna mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese: Use your favorite kind of cheese–pepper jack, American, or any kind will work!
- Bread: Any crusty bread works great. Ciabatta rolls are my go-to, but Focaccia works, Artisan, and more!
- Toppings: Keep it simple with the ingredients below or jazz it up by adding tomato, avocado, bacon, sprouts, jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy tuna melt.
- Air Fryer Tuna Melt: Air fry at 370 for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted rather than using a panini press.
- Tuna Melt Wrap: Add tuna mixture and cheese to a tortilla and fold like a burrito. Cook on a skillet over medium heat until toasted on all sides and the cheese is melted.
- Seasonings: Feel free to use any extra seasoning desired. I love adding Everything but the Bagel Seasoning to this!
Do I have to use a Panini Press?
Nope! If you don’t have a press, don’t worry! Below are some simple instructions on how to adapt this recipe!
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat for a minute or two, so it has time to heat fully.
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While skillet is heating, butter the bottoms of two of the sandwiches and place into the hot pan.
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Place a heavy piece of cookware over the panini (cast iron works great for this) and press down firmly. Allow to cook for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and crunchy.
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Butter the tops of the panini and flip. Set cookware back on top, pressing down to flatten further. Cook for a minute or so and remove from heat.
More Recipes to try
Instant Pot Tuna Noodle Casserole- a quick and family friendly casserole made conveniently in the Instant Pot
BEST EVER Tuna Casserole- a one pan meal, this casserole is loaded with goodies and packed with flavor
Turkey, Bacon, and Avocado Panini- this classic panini is layered with shaved turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh avocado slices
Classic Tuna Melt Panini Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 6 oz tuna *drained
- 1/3 cup cottage cheese
- 2 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup onion *finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 loaf Foccacia bread *cut into desired size sandwiches, also slice in half to fill with tuna
- Sliced Cheese *any works, we use American
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine all ingredients minus the bread and cheese.
- Spoon tuna mixture onto one side of the bread.
- Place one slice of cheese on top of tuna and cover to create sandwich.
- Place sandwich on to press and close lid. Allow to cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and sandwich is toasted.
- *If using a griddle or pan, cook on each side for a few minutes, to toast evenly.
- Remove from griddle/press and serve.
Nutrition
Recipe updated 9/19/2022
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