Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Tuna Melt Panini! Imagine crispy, golden-brown bread hugging a creamy, cheesy tuna filling, punctuated with sweet caramelized onions and smoky Hatch chiles. This isn't just another sandwich – it's a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy professional looking for a quick gourmet meal or a home cook craving something special, this recipe promises to elevate your sandwich game to restaurant-quality in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans of tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1-2 Hatch chiles, roasted and chopped
- 4 slices of bread (your choice)
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Drain the canned tuna and place it in a mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise and shredded cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined. This will be your tuna melt filling.
- Next, prepare the onions and Hatch chiles. Slice the medium onion into thin rings. If you haven't done so already, roast the Hatch chiles until the skin is charred. You can do this by placing them directly over a flame or under a broiler. Once roasted, let them cool slightly, then peel off the skin and chop them into small pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter and sauté the sliced onions. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized. Once done, remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped roasted Hatch chiles and sauté them for about 2-3 minutes to bring out their flavor. Combine the sautéed chiles with the tuna mixture from earlier, adding the caramelized onions as well. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Now, it's time to assemble your paninis. Take two slices of your chosen bread and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice. On the unbuttered side of one slice, generously spread the tuna melt filling, then top it with another slice of bread, buttered side up. Repeat this process for the second sandwich.
- Heat the skillet over medium heat again. Once hot, carefully place the assembled paninis in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwiches for even grilling.
- Once the first side is golden, carefully flip the paninis over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, until it's also golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Once cooked, remove the paninis from the skillet and let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half. This will help prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Serve your Tuna Melt Panini with Grilled Onion and Hatch Chile warm, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips
- Choose high-quality tuna: Opt for solid white albacore tuna for the best texture and flavor.
- Roasting Hatch chiles: If fresh Hatch chiles aren't available, canned or jarred roasted green chiles work perfectly.
- Cheese matters: Experiment with different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend for unique flavor profiles.
- Bread selection: Use sturdy bread like sourdough or artisan white bread that can withstand grilling without falling apart.
- Even butter application: Use softened butter and spread it evenly to ensure a consistently golden, crispy exterior.
- Low and slow: Cook your paninis on medium heat to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust without burning.
- Press gently: When grilling, use a spatula to press lightly, helping the bread crisp and the cheese melt evenly.Pro tip: Let the panini rest for a minute after cooking to allow the cheese to set and prevent burning your mouth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 55mg
