Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Joe & the Juice Tuna Sandwich is beloved for its perfectly toasted flatbread, savory tuna mix, and creamy, spicy kick. This copycat version lets you recreate the deliciously satisfying sandwich at home with simple ingredients and bold flavor. It’s quick to make, packed with protein, and great for lunch or a light dinner.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
canned tuna in water or oil (drained)
light mayonnaise
jalapeños (sliced, pickled or fresh)
sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
salt
black pepper
flatbread or thin sandwich bread (like rye or panini-style)
olive oil or butter (for grilling)
directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and jalapeños.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and mix until well combined and creamy.
Heat a pan or sandwich press over medium heat.
Brush the outside of the flatbread lightly with olive oil or butter.
Spread the tuna mixture evenly over one slice of the bread and top with another slice to form a sandwich.
Grill the sandwich in the pan or press until golden and crispy on the outside and warm on the inside—about 2–3 minutes per side.
Slice in half and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 2 sandwiches.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5–6 minutes
Total time: 15–20 minutes
Variations
Add avocado slices or a handful of arugula for extra texture.
Use spicy mayo instead of plain for more heat.
Swap sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers.
Use gluten-free or whole wheat flatbread if preferred.
Add a slice of cheese before grilling for a melty twist.
storage/reheating
Store leftover tuna filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Assemble and grill the sandwich fresh for best texture.
Reheat in a pan or toaster oven for a crispy finish—avoid microwaving to keep the bread from going soggy.
FAQs
What kind of tuna works best?
Chunk light tuna in water or oil both work—just drain well before mixing.
Is the sandwich spicy?
It has a mild kick from jalapeños, but you can adjust the heat to your liking.
Can I use a different bread?
Yes, thin sourdough or rye works well, just make sure it’s grill-friendly.
Do I need a sandwich press?
No, a regular pan with a spatula to press down works great.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just ensure your bread and mayo are dairy-free.
What else can I add for crunch?
Try thin cucumber slices or shredded lettuce right before serving.
Conclusion
Joe & the Juice Tuna Sandwich Copycat Recipe brings all the crave-worthy flavor of the original straight to your kitchen. With a creamy, spicy tuna mix and crispy toasted bread, it’s a simple yet satisfying sandwich you’ll want to make again and again—no trip to the café required.
PrintJoe & the Juice Tuna Sandwich Copycat Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This copycat Joe & the Juice Tuna Sandwich recipe brings that signature café flavor right to your kitchen. Creamy tuna spread meets crisp, grilled flatbread for a simple but satisfying sandwich. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!
Ingredients
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1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
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2 tbsp mayonnaise
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1 tbsp Dijon mustard
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tsp lemon juice
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 slices of whole wheat flatbread or thin rye bread
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2 slices of tomato
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1 handful of fresh spinach or arugula
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1 tbsp butter or oil (for grilling)
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix the tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until creamy.
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Heat a skillet or pan over medium heat.
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Butter or lightly oil the outsides of the flatbread slices.
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Spread the tuna mixture on one slice of bread.
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Top with fresh spinach or arugula and slices of tomato.
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Place the second slice of bread on top.
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Grill the sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until golden and crispy.
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Slice and serve warm.
Notes
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You can swap the Dijon mustard for regular mustard if preferred.
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Use a sandwich press for an extra crispy exterior.
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Add a slice of cheese if you want a creamier, meltier sandwich.
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