Grilled Cheese Patty Melts Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein component, forming the patties.

Sourdough bread: Provides a tangy flavor and sturdy structure for the sandwich.

Cheddar or American cheese: Melts well, adding creamy texture and rich flavor.

Onion: Caramelized to add sweetness and depth to the sandwich.

Butter: Used for grilling the bread to a golden brown.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the beef patties.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and seasoning to the beef patties.

To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, cook them slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. This allows the natural sugars in the onions to break down and develop a rich, sweet flavor. Patience is key; rushing this process can result in burnt or unevenly cooked onions.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• ground beef - Substitute with black bean patties: For a vegetarian option, black bean patties offer a hearty and flavorful alternative.

• sourdough bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

• sourdough bread - Substitute with rye bread: Rye bread provides a distinct, robust flavor that pairs well with melted cheese.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts well and has a mild, nutty flavor.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone offers a creamy texture and a slightly tangy taste.

• American cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor.

• American cheese - Substitute with pepper jack cheese: Pepper jack adds a spicy kick and melts well.

• sliced onion - Substitute with caramelized shallots: Caramelized shallots provide a sweeter, more delicate onion flavor.

• sliced onion - Substitute with grilled bell peppers: Grilled bell peppers add a sweet and smoky flavor.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and adds a subtle fruity flavor.

• butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a rich, nutty flavor.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and a salty depth of flavor.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds heat and a spicy kick.

• Allow the grilled cheese patty melts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from making the bread soggy.
• Wrap each patty melt individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps maintain freshness and prevents them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped patty melts in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This ensures they stay fresh and prevents any odors from the fridge from seeping in.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• When freezing, label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
• To reheat from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
• For reheating from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen patty melts on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to crisp up the bread.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly. Flip occasionally to ensure both sides are crispy and heated through.
• Avoid using the microwave for reheating, as it can make the bread soggy and the patty melts less enjoyable.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each grilled cheese patty melt in aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to the skillet. Place the patty melt in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

• Microwave Method: This method is quick but may not yield the crispiest results. Place the patty melt on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melt directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melt in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the patties and caramelizing the onions.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the patties and the sandwiches.

• Knife: Used for slicing the onion.

• Cutting board: A surface for slicing the onion.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the butter for grilling.

• Plate: Used to set aside the cooked patties and caramelized onions.

• Butter knife: Used to spread butter on the bread slices.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the finished grilled cheese patty melts.

Pre-form patties: Shape the ground beef into patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Pre-slice onions: Slice the onions in advance and keep them in an airtight container.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on slicing.

Butter in bulk: Butter all bread slices at once and stack them for easy assembly.

Cook in batches: Use a large skillet to cook multiple patties and sandwiches simultaneously.