Few dishes hit the spot quite like a tuna melt. It’s the perfect combination of crispy bread, creamy tuna salad, and melted cheese. And when made in an air fryer, it becomes even easier and crispier, without the need for excessive butter or oil.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the best way to make an Air Fryer English Muffin Tuna Melt, along with expert tips, variations, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Why Make a Tuna Melt in the Air Fryer?
If you’ve never tried making a tuna melt in the air fryer, you’re missing out. Here’s why it’s the best method:
Extra Crispy Bread: The circulating hot air ensures that your English muffin gets golden brown and crunchy.
Perfectly Melted Cheese: Even melting without burning the bread.
Faster Cooking Time: The air fryer speeds up the process, making this an easy meal in minutes.
Less Cleanup: No need to deal with greasy pans or excessive butter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious air fryer tuna melt, gather the following ingredients:
For the Tuna Salad:
1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon finely chopped celery
1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion
1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tuna Melt:
2 English muffins, split in half
4 slices of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American)
1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra crispiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tuna Salad
In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, celery, red onion, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 2-3 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tuna Melts
Lay the English muffin halves on a clean surface.
Spread a generous amount of tuna salad onto each half.
Top each one with a slice of cheese.
4. Air Fry the Tuna Melts
Place the assembled muffins in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
Air fry at 375°F for 4-6 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the English muffins are golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the tuna melts from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Tuna Melt
Use a fork to flake the tuna well before mixing for a smoother texture.
Don’t overfill the basket. Airflow is key to even crisping.
Pre-toast the muffins in the air fryer for 2 minutes before adding the tuna mixture for extra crunch.
Try different cheeses. Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, while Swiss or provolone provide a creamy, melty texture.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Butter the muffins lightly before air frying for a richer taste and golden crust.
Delicious Variations
Avocado Tuna Melt: Add a few avocado slices under the cheese.
Spicy Tuna Melt: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Classic Deli-Style: Use rye bread instead of an English muffin.
Low-Carb Option: Swap the muffin for portobello mushroom caps or zucchini slices.
BBQ Tuna Melt: Add a drizzle of BBQ sauce before adding cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the tuna salad up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Assemble and air fry just before serving.
2. What’s the Best Cheese for a Tuna Melt?
Cheddar, Swiss, provolone, and American cheese all work well. For an extra gooey melt, try using a combination of two cheeses.
3. Can I Use Canned Salmon Instead of Tuna?
Absolutely! Canned salmon is a great alternative if you prefer a different flavor.
4. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
5. Can I Use a Regular Oven Instead?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for about 8-10 minutes until the cheese melts and the muffin is crispy.
6. Do I Need to Flip the Tuna Melt in the Air Fryer?
No, flipping is not necessary as the air fryer circulates hot air evenly, ensuring everything cooks perfectly.
7. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether. Replace the mayo with dairy-free alternatives like vegan mayo or mashed avocado.
8. What Side Dishes Pair Well with a Tuna Melt?
Some great sides include:
A simple side salad
Sweet potato fries
Tomato soup
Pickles and coleslaw
Roasted vegetables
Final Thoughts
An Air Fryer English Muffin Tuna Melt is a quick, easy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any time of day. With a crispy base, creamy tuna, and melted cheese, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Try it out, customize it to your taste, and enjoy a comforting classic with an air-fried twist!
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