Air Fryer Tuna Melt Recipe (Quick And Easy)

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a delicious snack to enjoy any time of day, this air fryer tuna melt recipe will have you covered. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

I’ve got something exciting to share with you—my latest obsession: Air Fryer Tuna Melts! 

You know those days when you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting? Well, these tuna melts are the answer to all your cravings and more.

Picture this: tender tuna salad loaded with mayo, crunchy celery, and tangy pickles, on perfectly toasted bread and topped with gooey melted cheese. 

Are you drooling yet? Because I sure am!

But here’s the best part: we’re taking these tuna melts to the next level by making them in the air fryer. That’s right—no need to fire up the oven or stand over a hot stove.

Just pop these babies into your air fryer, sit back, and relax while they transform into golden perfection.

And let me tell you, the air fryer works its magic on these tuna melts. It crisps up the bread to perfection, melts the cheese into a gooey, cheesy blanket, and heats up the tuna salad just right. 

The result? A melty, cheesy, crunchy masterpiece that’s guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.

If you love this easy air fryer tuna melt you may also want to try my Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Recipe or my Air Fryer Breakfast Sandwiches.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS AIR FRYER TUNA MELT RECIPE

1. Quick and Easy: Air fryer recipes are often known for their convenience and speed. This recipe likely offers a fast and hassle-free way to make a delicious tuna melt.
2. Healthier Option: Using an air fryer typically requires less oil compared to traditional frying methods, making this recipe a healthier alternative to a classic tuna melt.
3. Crispy Texture: Air fryers are great for achieving a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This recipe may result in a perfectly toasted and crunchy tuna melt.
4. Versatility: Air fryers are versatile appliances that can cook a wide range of dishes. This recipe may demonstrate how adaptable an air fryer can be for making sandwiches like tuna melts.
5. Customizable: Tuna melts can be customized to suit individual tastes. Whether you prefer extra cheese, added veggies, or a special seasoning, this recipe might provide a framework for personalizing your perfect tuna melt.

INGREDIENTS YOU NEED FOR THE AIR FRYER TUNA SANDWICH

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make these tuna melt sandwiches (the detailed instructions, nutritional information and full recipe are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post):

• Can of tuna
• Mayonnaise – can also use light mayonnaise
• Mustard – can use dijon mustard or yellow mustard
• Diced celery
• Diced red onion
• Dill pickles
• Garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Slices of bread – rye bread, sourdough bread, or even an english muffin all work well
• Cheese slices (cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, pepper jack, or Swiss work great)
• Butter or olive oil cooking spray for bread
• Optional – fresh lemon juice, fresh tomato slices, dill pickle relish, etc.

HOW TO MAKE

1. Prepare the Tuna Salad: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, mustard, chopped celery, chopped red onion, pickles, jalapeños, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 350 degrees F for a few minutes.
3. Prepare the Bread: Place the bread slices on a baking sheet or directly in the air fryer basket. Toast them lightly for about 2 minutes to ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
4. Add the Tuna Mixture: Spread the prepared tuna salad evenly over the toasted bread slices, covering them completely.
5. Top with Cheese: Top with a thin layer of shredded cheese, the fresh tomato slice, then another layer of cheese.
6. Air Fry: Carefully place the topped bread slices in the preheated air fryer basket. Air fry for 4-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are crispy. You can turn up the heat to 450 at the end for 1 minute to brown the cheese if desired.
7. Serve: Once done, remove the open-faced tuna melts from the air fryer. Allow them to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

STORING THE LEFTOVER TUNA SALAD MIXTURE SALAD

Storing Leftovers:

1. Cool Down: Allow the leftover open-faced tuna melts to cool down to room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation and sogginess.
2. Wrap or Container: Place the tuna melts in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Ensure they are sealed properly to maintain freshness.
3. Refrigeration: Store the wrapped or containerized tuna melts in the refrigerator. They can typically last for up to 2-3 days when properly stored.

Reheating Leftovers:

1. 1. Air Fryer Method: For the best results, reheat the leftover tuna melts in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna melts in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melty and bubbly.
   2. Oven Method: Alternatively, you can reheat the tuna melts in a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tuna melts on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.
   3. Microwave Method: If you’re short on time, you can use the microwave to reheat the tuna melts. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep in mind that this method may result in a softer texture compared to the air fryer or oven method.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR BEST RESULTS

I’ve got some tips and tricks to help you nail it every time. 

First off, let’s talk ingredients. You’ll want to use good-quality stuff here—think sturdy bread like sourdough or whole grain, and don’t skimp on the canned tuna or fresh veggies for the salad filling. 

Oh, and make sure you drain that tuna really well to avoid any sogginess.

Now, when it comes to the tuna salad itself, don’t be afraid to get creative! Add in things like diced pickles, capers, or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the flavor. And don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go.

Next up, preheat your air fryer. This step is key for ensuring that perfect crispy texture we all love. 

While that’s heating up, lightly toast your bread slices—it’ll help keep them from getting too soggy once you pile on the toppings.

Speaking of toppings, make sure you spread everything out evenly. 

You want each bite to be packed with flavor, so don’t skimp on the tuna salad or cheese. And keep an eye on things while they’re cooking—air fryers can vary in cooking times, so you want to make sure you don’t overdo it.

Once your tuna melts are hot and bubbly, garnish them with some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for that final touch of freshness. And of course, serve them up hot and enjoy! 

These babies are best enjoyed right away, so dig in and savor every cheesy, crispy bite. Trust me, you’re gonna love ’em!

FAQS

HOW DO I ACHIEVE THE PERFECT GOLDEN BROWN COLOR ON THE MELTY CHEESE?

To achieve the desired golden brown color, ensure your air fryer is preheated, and cook the melts until the cheese is bubbly and slightly crispy. You can also turn up the heat to 450 at the end for 1 minute to brown the cheese if desired.

CAN I USE SLICES OF COLBY JACK CHEESE FOR THIS SIMPLE RECIPE?

Absolutely! Colby Jack cheese adds a deliciously creamy and tangy flavor to these melts.

CAN I USE ANY TYPE OF BREAD FOR THESE OPEN FACED SANDWICHES?

Yes, for sure! Whether it’s a slice of crusty roll or your favorite bread, feel free to use what you have on hand.

CAN I ADD ADDITIONAL TOPPINGS TO THESE MELTS?

Of course! Get creative and add toppings like sliced tomatoes, avocado, or even a sprinkle of crispy bacon for extra flavor.

CAN I MAKE THIS DELICIOUS AIR FRYER TUNA MELT IN THE TOASTER OVEN INSTEAD OF THE AIR FRYER?

Yes, you can! Simply preheat your toaster oven and follow the same instructions for assembling and cooking the melts until the cheese is melty and the bread is crispy.

Other Air Fryer Recipes You May Like To Try!

• Air Fryer Tortilla Garlic Bread
• Easy Air Fryer Parmesan Truffle Fries
• Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast
• Air Fryer Bacon
• Air Fryer Chicken Sausages
• Tortilla Pizza In The Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Steak French Fries
• Easy Air Fryer Hamburgers (Quick And Juicy)
• How To Roast Red Peppers In The Air Fryer

IF YOU TRIED THIS OPEN-FACED SANDWICH RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT IN THE COMMENT SECTION AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS HOMEMADE TUNA SALAD RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails