Air Fryer Tuna Melt – Recipe Diaries

July 2, 2025

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If you’re craving something warm, crispy, cheesy, and easy to make, this Air Fryer Tuna Melt checks all the boxes. It’s high in protein, budget-friendly, and ideal for busy days when you need lunch in under 10 minutes.

Whether you’re following any diet, looking for a WW-friendly meal, or just want to use up that can of tuna sitting in your pantry, this is a satisfying go-to recipe. This is also an easy recipe that won’t heat up your house this Summer.

Melted swiss cheese on top of an air fryer tuna melt topped with freshly cracked black pepper.

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Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Tuna Melt

As someone who juggles eating healthy with saving time (and money), I love recipes that hit all three. This tuna melt is:

Crispy on the outside, melty inside – thanks to the air fryer.
High in protein and totally customizable
Made with pantry staples
Great for blood sugar balance
Way cheaper than ordering out – you can get all these ingredients at my favorite store Aldi

I’ve tested this in my air fryer a dozen different ways, and this is my go-to method for perfect results every time. You might also like this Air Fryer Patty Melts

Ingredients Needed for Air Fryer Tuna Melt

2 slices of sourdough or whole grain bread – Holds up great in the air fryer – I get the sour dough bread
1 (5 oz) can of tuna, drained – Use wild-caught if possible, I love the canned tuna from Costco its 32 grams of protein per serving.
1 tablespoon mayo or Greek yogurt – Use dairy-free if needed
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds tang and depth
Pinch of garlic powder and pepper – Flavor boost
1–2 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese – Or use a dairy-free alternative
Olive oil spray – Helps crisp up the bread

Optional add-ins:

Sliced tomatoes
Pickles
Avocado

How to Make Air Fryer Tuna Melts

Step 1 Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.

Step 2 In a bowl, mix the tuna, mayo (or yogurt), Dijon, garlic powder, and pepper.

Step 3 Place the bread on the bottom of the air fryer in one single layer. You can spread butter on it.

Step 4 Let the bread toast for Lay out your bread and layer it: cheese, tuna mixture, optional toppings, more cheese, then the top slice of bread.

Layered tuna and cheese on top of bread.

Step 5 Spray both sides of the sandwich with olive oil spray. Air fry for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.Let cool for a minute before slicing.

Substitution Tips

Bread: Use gluten-free bread or a low-carb wrap for dietary needs.
Mayo: Sub with dairy-free Greek yogurt or mashed avocado. If you’re low carb or keto check out this Carnivore Mayonnaise
Cheese: Any meltable cheese works; dairy-free slices work great too.
Flavor boost: Add chopped celery, onion, or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mix.

Serving Suggestions

With a handful of kettle chips and dill pickles
Alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup like this Air Fryer Tomato Soup
Cut into triangles and serve with a small salad

Common Questions for Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Can I make this tuna melt without mayo?

Yes! Greek yogurt or mashed avocado makes a great creamy base.

Can I make this tuna melt ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can reheat it in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 350°F.

What’s the best bread to use for a tuna melt?

Sourdough, whole grain, or any hearty bread that crisps up well in the air fryer.

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