If you’re a fan of Jersey Mike’s, you’ve probably fallen in love with their delicious tuna sub—creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome goodness.
The Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe has become a cult favorite for sandwich lovers across the country, and today, we’re bringing that same deli-style magic straight into your kitchen.
Whether you’re prepping a quick lunch or creating a picnic showstopper, this copycat recipe is easy, satisfying, and much healthier when made at home.
Not only will you learn how to recreate the taste you know and love, but this recipe is also budget-friendly, customizable, and perfect for meal prepping.
From the tools you’ll need to the step-by-step guide, we’re covering everything to ensure your homemade version tastes just like the real thing.
Get ready to master this iconic sub with an irresistible homemade touch.
My Personal Experience with the Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe
I remember the first time I tried to replicate the Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe at home. I wanted that same creamy texture and bold flavor but with better ingredients.
After some trial and error, I nailed the balance—and honestly, my family prefers this version over takeout now! It’s become a regular part of our weekly lunch rotation.
Equipment List
To recreate the Jersey Mike’s tuna sub at home, here’s what you’ll need:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Spatula or spoon
- Toaster or oven (for toasting the sub rolls)
- Sandwich knife (for serving)
Ingredients List
Here are the simple yet essential ingredients to achieve that iconic Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe flavor:
- 2 (5 oz) cans of solid white albacore tuna in water, drained
- ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Hellmann’s or Duke’s)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion (optional)
- Sub rolls (Italian or wheat, split lengthwise)
- Romaine lettuce, shredded
- Tomato slices
- Pickles, optional
- Banana peppers, optional
- Oil and vinegar blend (for drizzling)
- Dried oregano (optional, for garnish)

Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe – Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1:
Drain the Tuna: Open and thoroughly drain both cans of tuna. Use a fork to flake the tuna into small pieces in a mixing bowl.
Step 2:
Mix the Base: Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped celery, and red onion (if using) to the bowl. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Step 3:
Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper according to your preference. Mix well.
Step 4:
Prepare the Sub Roll: Slice your sub rolls and lightly toast them for a crunchier texture—just like Jersey Mike’s does.
Step 5:
Build the Sandwich: Layer the shredded lettuce at the bottom, spoon the tuna mixture generously, and top with tomato slices, pickles, and banana peppers.
Step 6:
Finish with Flavor: Drizzle a little oil and vinegar on top and sprinkle with dried oregano for that authentic deli-style taste.
Step 7:
Serve Immediately: Cut in half and enjoy fresh!
Tips for Success
- Use Albacore Tuna: White albacore provides the mild, meaty texture similar to Jersey Mike’s version.
- Drain Thoroughly: Excess moisture will water down the flavor and make the sandwich soggy.
- Go Easy on Mayo First: You can always add more mayo, but too much can overpower the tuna.
- Toast the Bread Lightly: A warm, crisp roll elevates the texture and keeps the sandwich from getting soggy.
- Assemble Just Before Serving: To maintain freshness and avoid sogginess, layer your ingredients right before you’re ready to eat.
Variations on Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to your tuna mix for heat.
- Avocado Blend: Mix mashed avocado with mayo for a creamy and heart-healthy twist.
- Greek-Style Tuna: Replace mayo with Greek yogurt and toss in some chopped cucumbers and dill.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the tuna salad in lettuce wraps instead of bread for a keto-friendly option.
- Cheesy Tuna Melt: Add a slice of provolone or Swiss cheese and toast the sandwich until melted.
Conclusion
There’s a reason the Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe is so beloved—it’s simple, satisfying, and packed with comforting flavors.
Now, you can enjoy that same iconic taste in the comfort of your own kitchen, tailored just the way you like it.
Give this homemade version a try and make it part of your weekly meal routine. It’s truly a deli favorite worth mastering.
FAQs
Can I freeze homemade tuna salad?
Freezing tuna salad is not recommended, especially when it contains mayonnaise, as the texture will change upon thawing.
It’s best to enjoy your Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe fresh or refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Does the Jersey Mike’s tuna contain dairy?
No, the classic Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe is dairy-free. However, if you add cheese to your sandwich or order a tuna melt, that version will contain dairy.
Can I use canned tuna in oil for this recipe?
Yes, you can, but for the most authentic Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe, tuna in water is recommended.
Tuna in oil may create a different flavor and texture, which might not match the original sub.

Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Spatula or spoon
- Toaster or oven (for toasting the sub rolls)
- Sandwich knife (for serving)
Ingredients
- 2 5 oz cans of solid white albacore tuna in water, drained
- ½ cup mayonnaise preferably Hellmann’s or Duke’s
- 1 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tbsp finely chopped red onion optional
- Sub rolls Italian or wheat, split lengthwise
- Romaine lettuce shredded
- Tomato slices
- Pickles optional
- Banana peppers optional
- Oil and vinegar blend for drizzling
- Dried oregano optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the Tuna: Open and thoroughly drain both cans of tuna. Use a fork to flake the tuna into small pieces in a mixing bowl.
- Mix the Base: Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped celery, and red onion (if using) to the bowl. Stir until well combined and creamy.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and black pepper according to your preference. Mix well.
- Prepare the Sub Roll: Slice your sub rolls and lightly toast them for a crunchier texture—just like Jersey Mike's does.
- Build the Sandwich: Layer the shredded lettuce at the bottom, spoon the tuna mixture generously, and top with tomato slices, pickles, and banana peppers.
- Finish with Flavor: Drizzle a little oil and vinegar on top and sprinkle with dried oregano for that authentic deli-style taste.
- Serve Immediately: Cut in half and enjoy fresh!
Notes
- Use Albacore Tuna: White albacore provides the mild, meaty texture similar to Jersey Mike’s version.
- Drain Thoroughly: Excess moisture will water down the flavor and make the sandwich soggy.
- Go Easy on Mayo First: You can always add more mayo, but too much can overpower the tuna.
- Toast the Bread Lightly: A warm, crisp roll elevates the texture and keeps the sandwich from getting soggy.
- Assemble Just Before Serving: To maintain freshness and avoid sogginess, layer your ingredients right before you’re ready to eat.
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