Tuna Melt Pie: A Comforting Classic with a Twist

Name: Tuna Melt Pie: A Comforting Classic with a Twist
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade); 2 cans of tuna, drained; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup chopped green onions; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 2 eggs, beaten

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on March 7, 2025

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Tuna melt pie is a delightful fusion of a classic tuna melt sandwich and a savory pie, offering a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or meal prepping, as it can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day.

With its creamy, cheesy filling and flaky crust, tuna melt pie transforms simple pantry ingredients into a comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults. Whether you’re a tuna lover or just looking for a new way to enjoy an easy homemade meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick to Make
Unlike traditional pies that require extensive prep time, tuna melt pie is incredibly easy to assemble. Using a pre-made pie crust significantly cuts down on time, allowing you to have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
A Budget-Friendly Meal
Canned tuna is an affordable protein source that is easy to store and use in various recipes. Combined with staple ingredients like eggs, mayonnaise, and cheese, this dish provides a hearty and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
A Versatile Dish
This recipe can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Want a little heat? Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Looking for a healthier version? Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and swap out the pie crust for a low-carb alternative like a cauliflower crust.
Great for Leftovers
Tuna melt pie tastes just as good the next day. Simply reheat a slice in the oven or microwave, and you have an easy, no-fuss meal. It also works well for meal prepping, making busy weeknights even more manageable.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Pre-made pie crust	1	Or homemade
Tuna, drained	2 cans	Preferably in water
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup	Or more, if desired
Mayonnaise	½ cup	Adds creaminess
Sour cream	½ cup	Extra creamy texture
Chopped green onions	½ cup	For a fresh kick
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon	Adds flavor
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	To taste
Dijon mustard	1 teaspoon	For a little zing
Eggs, beaten	2	Helps bind everything

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a pie dish and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped green onions, garlic powder, black pepper, and Dijon mustard. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Add the beaten eggs to the mixture and stir until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing.
Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~350 kcal
Protein	~20g
Fat	~25g
Carbohydrates	~15g
Fiber	~1g
Sugar	~2g

The Inspiration Behind Tuna Melt Pie

The classic tuna melt sandwich has long been a staple in diners and home kitchens, known for its crispy bread, melted cheese, and creamy tuna filling. This recipe takes those familiar flavors and elevates them by baking them into a savory pie, making it a heartier and more filling meal.

Inspired by quiches and other savory pies, this dish blends the best elements of a tuna melt with the rich, custardy texture of an egg-based pie. The combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, and eggs gives the filling a luscious consistency, while the cheddar cheese provides the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How to Serve Tuna Melt Pie

Tuna melt pie is incredibly versatile and can be served in different ways depending on the occasion.

As a Main Course – Serve a slice with a side of fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a well-balanced meal.
For Brunch – This dish makes a great addition to a brunch spread, alongside fruit, toast, and coffee.
As a Snack – Enjoy a small slice on its own as a savory snack during the day.
For Meal Prep – Make the pie ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tips for the Best Tuna Melt Pie

Use High-Quality Tuna
Since tuna is the star ingredient, opt for a good-quality canned tuna, preferably packed in water rather than oil, to avoid excess grease.
Don’t Skip the Cheese
Cheese is essential for getting that signature tuna melt flavor. Sharp cheddar works best, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack.
Bake Until Set
The filling should be firm and slightly golden on top. If the center is still jiggly, let it bake for a few more minutes to ensure it sets properly.
Let It Cool Slightly Before Serving
Giving the pie a few minutes to cool helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration

After baking, allow the pie to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or covering it with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs About Tuna Melt Pie

1. Can I Make Tuna Melt Pie Without a Crust?

Yes! If you prefer a crustless version, simply grease a pie dish and pour the filling directly into it. Bake as usual, and you’ll have a delicious, low-carb alternative.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?

If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or even mashed avocado for a healthier twist.

3. Can I Add Vegetables to the Pie?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions to this dish. Just be sure to sauté any watery vegetables first to prevent the pie from becoming too soggy.

4. How Do I Prevent My Pie from Getting Soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to drain the tuna well and consider pre-baking the pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.

5. Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Yes! While cheddar is a classic choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, Swiss, or even feta for a unique twist on the recipe.

6. Is This Recipe Kid-Friendly?

Definitely! The creamy, cheesy filling is appealing to kids, and you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit their taste preferences.

Conclusion

Tuna melt pie is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the best flavors of a classic tuna melt sandwich in a rich, flaky pie. It’s an easy, budget-friendly recipe that works for any meal of the day, from breakfast to dinner. With endless ways to customize it, this dish can be adapted to fit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, tuna melt pie is sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness in every bite.