Easy Air Fryer Tuna Melt
There’s something magical about a good tuna melt. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that bring everyone to the table—even my pickiest eater can’t resist this one! When life gets busy (and let’s face it, when isn’t it?), I rely on recipes that are quick, satisfying, and use ingredients I almost always have on hand. That’s where this air fryer tuna melt shines.
I first started making these because I needed a no-fuss lunch option that could double as an after-school snack. My kids were skeptical at first, but the gooey cheese and perfectly toasted bread won them over in no time. My husband? He’s been sneaking the leftovers for his midnight snacks.
The best part? The air fryer makes this recipe practically foolproof. No more babysitting a skillet to make sure your sandwich doesn’t burn—just set it, forget it, and let the magic happen. The result is a crispy, golden exterior and a melty, flavorful interior that feels like a hug on a plate.
I love how customizable this recipe is, too. Want to sneak in some veggies? Add a few slices of tomato or spinach. Feeling fancy? Use artisan bread or sprinkle in some fresh herbs. Whatever spin you put on it, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Trust me, one bite, and you’ll understand why this tuna melt has earned a permanent spot on our weekly menu!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with canned chicken if tuna isn’t your thing.
What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
I recommend a sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta for the best texture, but even plain sandwich bread will do in a pinch.
Can I make this in the oven if I don’t have an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the sandwiches on a baking sheet for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap the sandwiches tightly in foil and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
What You Need to Make Easy Air Fryer Tuna Melt
Ingredients
1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
4 slices of sourdough bread
2 tablespoons butter, softened
Tools
Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Spatula
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Tuna Melt
Prepare the Tuna Mixture
In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, shredded cheeses, and parsley. Mix well until creamy and evenly combined.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices, buttered side down, on a plate. Spread the tuna mixture evenly across the bread, then top with the remaining slices, buttered side up.
Air Fry the Sandwiches
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the sandwiches in the basket, making sure they’re not overlapping. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the sandwiches cool for a minute before slicing in half. Serve warm and enjoy the melty goodness!
Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Tuna Melt
Use high-quality cheese for the ultimate melty texture. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella strikes the perfect balance.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
Add some crunch by layering a few slices of tomato or pickles inside the sandwich.
Make it lighter by substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the tuna mixture.
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This recipe saved me on a busy weeknight! So easy and delicious!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I loved the flavors, but next time I’ll add a little more mustard for extra zing.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My kids asked for seconds! That never happens with tuna!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great recipe, but I had to cook mine a bit longer in the air fryer.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This is my new go-to lunch recipe. It’s quick, satisfying, and so tasty!”
Printable Recipe
Easy Air Fryer Tuna Melt
Whip up a quick and delicious lunch with this Easy Air Fryer Tuna Melt! Featuring melty cheese, crispy bread, and a creamy tuna filling, it’s a family-friendly recipe you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Tools
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna MixtureIn a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, shredded cheeses, and parsley. Mix well until creamy and evenly combined.
- Assemble the SandwichesSpread butter on one side of each slice of bread. Place two slices, buttered side down, on a plate. Spread the tuna mixture evenly across the bread, then top with the remaining slices, buttered side up.
- Air Fry the SandwichesPreheat your air fryer to 375°F. Place the sandwiches in the basket, making sure they’re not overlapping. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and EnjoyLet the sandwiches cool for a minute before slicing in half. Serve warm and enjoy the melty goodness!
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
There’s nothing better than sharing a recipe that brings smiles to the table. If you loved this air fryer tuna melt as much as we do, snap a photo and tag your friends on social media! Use #EasyTunaMelt and spread the joy of good food with the people you love. After all, food tastes even better when it’s shared!
