Tuna and Peppers: Simple, Satisfying, Now

A quick, protein-forward combination that works for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

There's something deeply reliable about tuna and peppers. No fussy technique required—just honest ingredients that complement each other without demanding much. Whether you're reaching for canned tuna on a busy weeknight or working with fresh catches, peppers bring brightness and body to the plate. Add cheese, and you've got something that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

If you're trying to figure out what to make with what you have, you're not alone. Mealmizer was made for this. Try Mealmizer Free

Tuna and Pepper Melts

Total Time: 15 minutes • Serves: 2

Quick and satisfying open-faced sandwiches with flaked tuna, sautéed peppers and onions, topped with melted cheese. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, drained
1 bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 slices bread or English muffins
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and peppers, sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Stir in drained tuna, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
Toast bread or English muffins lightly.
Top each bread slice with the tuna mixture and generously cover with shredded cheese.
Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.

This is just one option. Want to create your own recipe?

Customize the ingredients or generate a recipe built entirely from what you already have.

Build My Recipe

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Skip the cheese or use just a whisper of it, and let fresh peppers shine. This version works beautifully over greens or with a simple grain.

Hearty Option

Layer in more cheese, combine with pasta or rice, and you've got a complete, satisfying meal that holds up well for leftovers.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Swap tuna for chickpeas, white beans, or crumbled tofu. The peppers, onions, and cheese remain the star players.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Canned or fresh salmon
Chickpeas
White beans
Chicken breast
Sardines
Crumbled tofu

Carb Substitutes

Pasta
Rice
Couscous
Polenta
Bread or crackers
Potatoes

Flavor Boosters

Lemon juice or zest
Red pepper flakes
Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, dill)
Garlic or shallots
Capers or olives
A touch of vinegar

Common Questions

Should I use canned or fresh tuna?

Both work beautifully. Canned tuna is convenient and shelf-stable; fresh offers a different texture and flavor. Choose based on what you have on hand and your mood.

What type of cheese works best?

Mild, melting cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar are reliable choices. Sharper options like feta or Pecorino add personality if you want more bite.

How do I keep this from tasting bland?

Seasoning is your friend—salt, pepper, and acid (lemon or vinegar) make a huge difference. Don't skip the onions; they add essential sweetness and depth.