Grilled Cheese Patty Melts Recipe

Craving a burger but also love the classic comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich? Look no further than this Grilled Cheese Patty Melt recipe! It’s a savory, indulgent fusion of two beloved favorites, featuring juicy beef patties, melty cheese, and caramelized onions, all sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe will hit all the right notes. Keep reading for a step-by-step guide, variations, tips, and more!

this Recipe

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What is a Grilled Cheese Patty Melt?

A Grilled Cheese Patty Melt combines the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. It starts with a flavorful beef patty, cooked to perfection, then layered with gooey melted cheese and caramelized onions, all sandwiched between slices of buttery toasted bread. Unlike traditional burgers, which are served on buns, patty melts use sandwich bread, often rye or sourdough, which gets crispy on the outside and soft on the inside when grilled.

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Ingredients List for Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Grilled Cheese Patty Melts:

• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean is ideal for juicy patties)
• 8 slices of bread (rye, sourdough, or your favorite sandwich bread)
• 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, American, or a combination)
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for sautéing the onions)
• 4 tablespoons butter (for grilling the sandwiches)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for seasoning the patties)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings:

• Pickles for tangy crunch
• Mustard or mayo for spreading on the bread
• Sautéed mushrooms for added depth of flavor
• Bacon for extra indulgence

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Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of Grilled Cheese Patty Melts is that they’re highly customizable. Here are some popular variations and substitutions:

• Cheese: Swap out Swiss or cheddar for pepper jack if you want some heat, or use gouda for a smoky twist. If you love extra melty cheese, American cheese is a classic choice.
• Bread: Rye bread is traditional for patty melts, but sourdough, whole wheat, or even Texas toast will work well. Gluten-free bread can also be used if needed.
• Beef: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based patties like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger for a vegetarian option.
• Onions: While caramelized onions are a must for a traditional patty melt, you can also add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor.
• Sauces: Spread some Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, or even Thousand Island dressing on the bread for added flavor. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft, golden, and caramelized—about 15-20 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt to help draw out their sweetness. Once they’re done, set them aside.

2. Form the Beef Patties

While the onions are cooking, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into thin, oval patties (slightly larger than the bread, as they’ll shrink during cooking). Season the patties with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Drizzle each patty with Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.

3. Cook the Patties

In a separate skillet or grill pan, cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked to your preferred doneness. You want a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Once cooked, set the patties aside and wipe out the pan if needed.

4. Butter the Bread

Generously butter one side of each bread slice. The buttered side will be grilled to golden perfection, so don’t skimp on it! For extra flavor, sprinkle a little garlic powder or paprika on the buttered side if you like.

5. Assemble the Patty Melt

On the unbuttered side of each slice of bread, start building your patty melts. Place one slice of cheese on the bread, followed by the beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, making sure the buttered side faces outwards.

6. Grill the Patty Melts

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, pressing down gently with a spatula. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is fully melted.

7. Slice and Serve

Once the sandwiches are perfectly grilled, remove them from the skillet. Let them rest for a minute or two before slicing them in half. Serve with pickles, a side of fries, or a simple salad.

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How to Cook a Grilled Cheese Patty Melt: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Caramelizing the Onions

Take your time caramelizing the onions—they’re a key element that adds sweetness and depth to the patty melt. Low and slow is the way to go, so be patient!

Step 2: Cooking the Beef Patties

Shape your patties thinner than you would for a regular burger, as you don’t want them to overpower the sandwich. The goal is for the beef to complement the cheese and onions, not dominate them.

Step 3: Grilling the Sandwich

Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature before grilling the sandwiches. Too hot, and the bread will burn before the cheese has a chance to melt. Medium heat is your best friend here.

Step 4: The Perfect Golden Crust

Use butter generously on the bread for that perfect golden, crispy exterior. You’ll know the patty melt is ready when you hear that satisfying sizzle and see the cheese starting to ooze out slightly.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not caramelizing the onions enough: Caramelizing onions takes time. Don’t rush this step! Under-cooked onions will taste raw and sharp, not sweet and soft.
2. Using too thick patties: Patty melts are all about balance. Keep the patties thin so they don’t overpower the other components.
3. Grilling at too high heat: If your heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts and the flavors meld. Use medium heat and be patient.
4. Not buttering the bread enough: The butter is key for achieving that perfect crispy, golden-brown exterior, so make sure to use enough on each slice.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Grilled Cheese Patty Melts are indulgent by nature, so serving them with simple sides works best. Here are some ideas for both serving and presenting your patty melts:

How to Serve Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

• Side Dishes: Serve with classic diner-style sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, or a small side salad. Pickles, coleslaw, or potato chips also pair well.
• Dips: Offer ketchup, mustard, or even a side of Thousand Island dressing for dipping. A spicy mayo or chipotle aioli can also add a tasty twist.
• Garnish: Garnish the plate with a few pickles or a sprig of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

• Cut Diagonally: Slice the sandwiches in half diagonally for a classic look that shows off the melty cheese and juicy beef inside.
• Stacking: If you’re serving a crowd, stack the halved patty melts on a platter for an eye-catching presentation.
• Skillet-to-Table: Serve the patty melts straight from the skillet for a rustic, casual vibe. Add small bowls of condiments on the side for dipping.

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Grilled Cheese Patty Melts Recipe Tips

• Use Quality Cheese: The cheese is a major player here, so don’t skimp. High-quality Swiss, cheddar, or American cheese will melt better and taste richer.
• Thin Patties for Balance: Keep your patties on the thin side to create a balance between the beef, cheese, and bread. Thicker patties can overwhelm the sandwich.
• Season Well: Don’t forget to season both the patties and the onions! A dash of Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder can take the flavor to the next level.
• Let the Sandwich Rest: After grilling, let the patty melt rest for a minute or two before slicing. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes for cleaner cuts.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe with turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works just as well. Just be mindful that these meats can be leaner, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil or butter while cooking to keep the patties juicy.

What’s the best cheese for a patty melt?

Swiss cheese is a classic choice, but cheddar, American, or even provolone work well. For a spicy version,

try pepper jack.

Can I make these ahead of time?

While patty melts are best served fresh, you can pre-cook the patties and caramelize the onions ahead of time. Reheat them and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with patty melts?

Classic diner sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, or coleslaw are great options. A simple green salad or even some potato chips will complement the rich flavors of the patty melt.

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Conclusion

The Grilled Cheese Patty Melt is the ultimate fusion of two comfort food classics: the grilled cheese sandwich and the burger. With juicy beef patties, gooey melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, this sandwich packs bold flavors and satisfying textures into every bite. Whether you're making it for a casual weeknight dinner or treating yourself to a comfort food indulgence, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy the best of both worlds with this delicious Grilled Cheese Patty Melt!

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