A modern twist on the classic tuna sandwich—this Tunacado is layered with creamy tuna salad, buttery avocado, fresh tomato slices, and melty cheese, all toasted to perfection. It’s flavorful, filling, and ideal for lunch or an easy dinner with a Scandi-inspired vibe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A fresh twist: The addition of avocado and fresh tomato elevates the classic tuna sandwich to something extra special.
Creamy and cheesy: The tuna salad, combined with melting cheese, creates the perfect creamy filling.
Quick and easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 6 minutes of cooking time, this sandwich is perfect for a fast lunch or dinner.
Comfort food with a twist: The toasted, crispy edges add a satisfying crunch, and the buttery avocado balances the flavors beautifully.
Customizable: Use your favorite type of bread, cheese, or even add extra toppings to make it your own.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 can (5 oz) tuna in olive oil, drained
2 tbsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
1/2 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1 small tomato, sliced
2 slices cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
2 slices sourdough or ciabatta bread
1 tbsp butter or olive oil (for grilling)

directions

Prepare the tuna mixture: In a bowl, mix the tuna with mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the sandwich: On one slice of bread, layer cheese, sliced avocado, the tuna mixture, and tomato slices.
Grill the sandwich: Top with the second slice of bread. Butter the outsides of the bread if desired.
Toast the sandwich: Toast the sandwich in a panini press or skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden and the cheese is melted.
Serve: Slice the sandwich in half and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 sandwich
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 16 minutes
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per sandwich

Variations

Add greens: Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for extra crunch and nutrients.
Use a different protein: Substitute the tuna with canned salmon or chicken for a different twist on the sandwich.
Make it spicy: Add a few slices of jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the tuna mixture for a spicy kick.
Use different cheese: Try a smoky cheese like gouda or a tangy cheese like goat cheese for added flavor.
Vegan option: Swap tuna for chickpeas mashed with vegan mayo and avocado for a plant-based option.

storage/reheating

This sandwich is best served fresh, as the bread can become soggy when stored. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat in a skillet to restore the crispy edges.

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

This sandwich is best served immediately, but you can prepare the tuna salad and slice the veggies ahead of time to assemble quickly when ready to grill.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any bread you prefer, such as whole-grain, rye, or gluten-free bread for a personalized twist.

Can I use non-dairy cheese?

Yes, non-dairy cheese like vegan mozzarella or cheddar will work great if you’re making a dairy-free version of this sandwich.

How can I make this sandwich spicier?

Add a few slices of fresh jalapeños, drizzle some sriracha over the avocado, or use a spicy mustard in the tuna mixture for a little extra heat.

Can I use canned tuna in water instead of olive oil?

Yes, canned tuna in water works just fine. Just be sure to add a little extra olive oil or mayo to keep the tuna salad creamy.

Can I make this sandwich without cheese?

Yes, you can skip the cheese for a lighter version, or try a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.

How do I make the sandwich crispy?

To achieve a crispy sandwich, make sure to butter the outsides of the bread before grilling or use olive oil for a golden, crisp finish.

Can I toast the bread in a regular toaster?

For best results, use a skillet or panini press to toast the sandwich, but you can toast the bread in a regular toaster and assemble the sandwich afterward.

Conclusion

The Tunacado Sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying twist on the classic tuna melt. With creamy tuna salad, buttery avocado, fresh tomato, and melty cheese, all toasted to perfection, it’s a delicious option for lunch or a quick dinner. Whether you’re craving something comforting or looking for an easy meal, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot!