The aroma of cheesy patty melts wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine biting into layers of savory beef, gooey cheese, and perfectly toasted bread, all drizzled with a special sauce that takes it to another level of deliciousness. For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch recipes recipe.
These cheesy patty melts with special sauce are not just a meal; they are an experience that brings back memories of family gatherings and late-night kitchen adventures. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a spontaneous weekend get-together, this recipe never fails to impress and satisfy. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes you’ll love recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cheesy patty melts are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, combining savory beef and melted cheese in every bite
- Visually, they are irresistible with their golden-brown crust and oozy filling
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they’re great for casual lunches or cozy dinners
Seeing my friends’ faces light up when I serve these cheesy patty melts is one of my favorite culinary moments.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 beef for a juicy melt; the fat content adds flavor and moisture.
Sliced Cheese: I recommend using American or cheddar for the ultimate gooeyness.
Sourdough Bread: Opt for thick slices to hold all that melty goodness without falling apart.
Onions: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully and add depth to the flavor.
Butter: A must for grilling the bread until golden brown and crispy.
Special Sauce Ingredients: You’ll need mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and a dash of hot sauce for that extra kick!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Patty Melts with Special Sauce
Create the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce until well combined. This tangy blend adds an irresistible zest to each bite.
Cook the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter before adding sliced onions. Sauté until they soften and turn golden brown—this should take about 10 minutes—releasing their sweet aroma.
Form the Patties: While the onions cook, shape your ground beef into patties. Season them generously with salt and pepper. Make sure they are slightly larger than your bread since they’ll shrink while cooking.
Grill the Patties: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat and cook your patties for about 4-5 minutes per side until they reach your desired doneness. Add cheese slices on top during the last minute of cooking to let them melt perfectly.
Assemble the Melts: Spread some special sauce on one slice of sourdough bread. Place a cheesy patty on top, followed by caramelized onions and another slice of bread smeared with more sauce.
Grill the Sandwiches: In the same skillet, melt more butter over medium heat. Grill each sandwich until golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side—ensuring that all ingredients meld beautifully together.
Enjoy these cheesy patty melts with special sauce while they’re hot! The combination of flavors will have you reaching for seconds before you even realize it.
You Must Know
- Cheesy Patty Melts with Special Sauce are comfort food royalty
- The gooey cheese, crispy bread, and zesty sauce create a taste explosion that’s hard to resist
- Don’t forget the secret of using freshly ground beef for a juicy patty that speaks flavor!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the patties in a hot skillet for an ideal crust. While they cook, prepare the onions and melt the cheese on top before assembling your sandwich.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add jalapeños for heat or swap cheddar for Swiss cheese if that’s your jam. Experimenting will make these cheesy delights even more personal!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cheesy patty melts in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, pop them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect cheesy patty melts, use high-fat ground beef for maximum juiciness
- Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, as this releases precious juices
- Lastly, let the assembled melts rest briefly for all flavors to meld beautifully
I remember the first time I made cheesy patty melts; my friends devoured them before I could even take a bite! Their laughter and compliments filled my kitchen with joy.
FAQ
What is special sauce made of?
Special sauce typically consists of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickles blended together for flavor.
Can I use turkey instead of beef for my patties?
Absolutely! Just be mindful to add extra fat or moisture to keep it juicy.
How can I make my own special sauce?
Mix equal parts mayonnaise and ketchup with a splash of pickle juice for a homemade version.
Cheesy Patty Melts with Special Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these cheesy patty melts. Layers of juicy ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions are sandwiched between perfectly toasted sourdough bread, all enhanced by a zesty special sauce. Perfect for any occasion, these melts are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 4 slices American or cheddar cheese
- 4 thick slices sourdough bread
- 1 medium sweet onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1/4 tsp hot sauce
Instructions
- Make the Special Sauce: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce; mix well.
- Cook the Onions: Melt 1 tbsp of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- Form Patties: Shape the ground beef into four patties, season with salt and pepper.
- Grill Patties: In a grill pan over medium-high heat, cook patties for approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Add cheese slices during the last minute to melt.
- Assemble Melts: Spread special sauce on one slice of bread, add a patty and caramelized onions, top with another slice of bread spread with sauce.
- Grill Sandwiches: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and grill each sandwich until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes each).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty melt (approx. 250g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1050mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
