Grilled Cheese Patty Melts Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein for the patties, ideally with an 80/20 blend for juiciness.

Sourdough: A type of bread that adds a tangy flavor and firm texture.

Rye bread: An alternative to sourdough, offering a slightly earthy taste.

Cheddar cheese: A sharp, flavorful cheese that melts well.

Swiss cheese: A milder cheese option with a nutty flavor.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized.

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

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the beef patties.

Pepper: Adds a bit of spice to the patties.

When caramelizing onions, ensure you cook them over medium-low heat and stir occasionally. This slow cooking process allows the natural sugars in the onions to break down and develop a rich, sweet flavor. Avoid rushing this step by using high heat, as it can lead to burning and a bitter taste.

• 80/20 blend ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can provide a similar texture and flavor when seasoned well.

• 80/20 blend ground beef - Substitute with black bean patties: For a vegetarian option, black bean patties offer a hearty texture and can be seasoned to mimic the savory taste of beef.

• sourdough bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread provides a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.

• rye bread - Substitute with pumpernickel bread: Pumpernickel bread has a similar dense texture and robust flavor, making it a good alternative.

• cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese offers a similar creamy texture and mild taste, making it a suitable replacement.

• large sliced onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle complexity to the dish.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and can be used for grilling to achieve a similar golden-brown crust.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, providing an extra kick to the flavor profile.

• Allow the grilled cheese patty melts to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy.

• Wrap each patty melt individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This ensures they remain intact and prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped patty melts in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against freezer burn and keeps them fresh.

• Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long they have been stored and ensures you consume them within a safe timeframe.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days if you plan to eat them soon. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they can last up to 2 months.

• When ready to reheat, unwrap the patty melts and place them on a baking sheet. If frozen, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Reheat the patty melts for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are crispy.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the patty melt on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

• Serve hot and enjoy your delicious grilled cheese patty melts once again!

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each grilled cheese patty melt in aluminum foil to retain moisture. 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-low heat. Place the patty melt in the skillet and cover with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is gooey.

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

• Microwave Method: While not ideal for maintaining crispiness, you can use the microwave in a pinch. Place the patty melt on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure the cheese is melted.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melt in the basket and 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 beef patties and caramelizing the onions.

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

• Knife: Used for slicing the onion.

• Cutting board: A surface for slicing the onion.

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

• Plate: For setting aside the cooked patties and caramelized onions.

• Measuring spoons: For measuring the butter used in grilling.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the hot patties and bread slices.

• Serving platter: For presenting the finished grilled cheese patty melts.

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

Pre-caramelize onions: Caramelize the onions in advance and store them in an airtight container. Reheat when needed.

Use pre-sliced cheese: Opt for pre-sliced cheese to eliminate the need for slicing and ensure uniform melting.

Butter bread in bulk: Butter all slices of bread at once and stack them to streamline the assembly process.

Cook multiple sandwiches: Use a large skillet or griddle to cook multiple sandwiches simultaneously, reducing overall cooking time.