How to Make the Best Tuna Melt on Cornbread – Quick & Delicious!

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy Tuna Melt. But have you ever tried it on cornbread? This twist on the classic sandwich takes the flavors to a whole new level. The sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory tuna salad and melted cheese, creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the best Tuna Melt on Cornbread – a quick and delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why Tuna Melt on Cornbread?

Tuna Melt on Cornbread is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The crumbly, slightly sweet cornbread provides a unique base that complements the creamy tuna salad and gooey melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that works for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best Tuna Melt on Cornbread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cornbread:

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
2 tablespoons sugar

For the Tuna Salad:

2 cans tuna (in water or oil, drained)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup diced celery
2 tablespoons diced red onion
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing it into squares or rectangles for the Tuna Melt.

Step 2: Make the Tuna Salad

In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork.
Add the mayonnaise, diced celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Tuna Melt on Cornbread

Preheat your broiler or toaster oven.
Place the cornbread slices on a baking sheet.
Spoon a generous amount of tuna salad onto each slice of cornbread.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tuna salad.
Add optional toppings like diced tomatoes or green onions if desired.

Step 4: Broil Until Golden and Bubbly

Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Tuna Melt on Cornbread

Use Fresh Cornbread: While store-bought cornbread works in a pinch, homemade cornbread adds a special touch to this recipe.
Customize Your Tuna Salad: Feel free to add ingredients like pickles, jalapeños, or herbs to the tuna salad for extra flavor.
Experiment with Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can try other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss for a different twist.
Add a Crunch: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before broiling.

Serving Suggestions

Tuna Melt on Cornbread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a side of coleslaw, a simple green salad, or a bowl of tomato soup. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks or picnics, as it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tuna Melt on Cornbread recipe is a game-changer for several reasons:

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of warm cornbread, creamy tuna salad, and melted cheese is pure comfort.
Versatile: You can customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use gluten-free cornbread?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the cornbread recipe with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cornbread and tuna salad in advance. Assemble and broil the Tuna Melt on Cornbread just before serving for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain the texture.

Conclusion

Tuna Melt on Cornbread is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a comforting dinner, or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe has you covered. With its unique combination of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and start making the best Tuna Melt on Cornbread today!