A perfectly golden and crispy tuna melt sandwich fresh from the air fryer.
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Emma Lawson | 
15.07.2025

Tuna Melt in the Air Fryer

Indulge in this quick and easy tuna melt in air fryer recipe. With this cheesy tuna air fryer sandwich, you'll enjoy a crispy air fryer tuna melt perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Using tin tuna in water, sturdy bread, and cheddar cheese, it's a simple treat that turns out delicious every time. Discover this delightful tuna melt with mayo and cheese recipe on <a href="https://www.airfryerrecipe.co.uk/">airfryerrecipe.co.uk</a>.
Prep Time
5m
Cook
8m
Total Time
13m
Yield
serves 4
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Meal Prep
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Tuna

What You’ll Need for a Tuna Melt in Air Fryer

Essential Ingredients for Tuna Melt

  • 2 tins of tuna in water, well-drained
  • 8 slices of sturdy bread
  • 200g cheddar cheese, grated
  • 4 tbsp mayonnaise
  • Butter for spreading

Add Some Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle fresh dill or parsley over the top for extra flavour. Herbs like dill and parsley enhance the cheesy tuna air fryer sandwich with a fresh and vibrant note. Don't shy away from experimenting with fresh herbs to level up your tuna melt with mayo and cheese. They're not only tasty but also add to the nutrient profile.

Why Use Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, making it ideal for a tuna melt in air fryer. It provides a robust flavour and creates that classic gooey texture. Always opt for a mature cheddar for added depth in flavour, making your cheesy tuna air fryer sandwich even more irresistible.

Steps to Cook a Tuna Melt in Air Fryer

To make this delightful tuna melt, you simply need to follow these simple steps.

  1. Preheat air fryer to 180°C.
  2. Mix drained tuna with mayonnaise in a bowl.
  3. Spread butter lightly on slices of bread.
  4. Place the tuna mixture on top, add cheese, and close with another slice of bread.
  5. Carefully place the sandwich in the air fryer basket.
  6. Cook in the air fryer for 8 minutes until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Avoid Overcooking Cheese

Be cautious not to overcook, as the cheese can become dry and lose its gooey texture.
A cross-section showcasing the gooey, melted cheese with tuna filling in an air fryer sandwich.

Nutrition for Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Calories: 320 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 28g | Fat: 14g

Serving Suggestions for Tuna Melt in the Air Fryer

Pair your crispy air fryer tuna melt with a fresh green salad or some homemade chips. Experiment with adding pickles or slices of avocado for extra texture and flavour. Serving fresh lemon wedges on the side can also enhance the overall taste, bringing out the flavour of the cheesy tuna air fryer sandwich.

Why You’ll Love This Tuna Melt in Air Fryer

This tuna melt in air fryer is a fan favourite because it turns a classic into something special with minimal fuss. With its crispy exterior and gooey, savoury interior, this delightful meal becomes a staple in no time. Visit airfryerrecipe.co.uk regularly for more quick and easy air fryer creations that inspire your daily menu.

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FAQs About Tuna Melt in Air Fryer

Can I use wholemeal bread for this recipe?

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Yes, wholemeal bread adds a nice texture and nutritional value.
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What's the best way to drain tuna for this recipe?

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Draining tuna well is crucial; use a sieve and press out excess water.
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Can I add other cheeses?

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Absolutely! Try adding mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
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Is it okay to add spices to the tuna mix?

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Yes, spices like black pepper and chilli flakes work wonders.
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