Looking for a quick and easy dinner that everyone will devour? This classic patty melt recipe is the perfect solution. With juicy beef patties, melty Colby Jack cheese, crisp sourdough bread, and a savory sauce, it’s a deliciously simple meal you can make in minutes. No need to worry about buns—just grab some hearty bread, and you’re all set!
If you’re new to patty melts, you’re in for a treat! This American classic combines everything you love about a burger, but without the extra work. Ground beef, gooey cheese, and toasted bread come together effortlessly to create a satisfying meal that’s as quick as it is tasty.
This recipe makes 3 hearty patty melts, perfect for feeding a family of 3 or serving as a filling dinner for 1 with some left over to meal prep.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices sourdough bread (or bread of choice like Texas toast, pumpernickel, etc.)
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing (or sauce of choice)
- 6 slices Colby Jack cheese
Instructions:
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Prep the bread: Butter one side of each slice of sourdough bread (6 slices total) with 1 tablespoon of butter per slice and set aside.
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Make the patties: In a bowl, mix 1 lb of ground beef with 3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder. Shape the mixture into 3 patties, ensuring each patty matches the size of the bread slices.
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Cook the patties: Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes per side. Then, lower the heat to low and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
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Toast the bread: Heat another skillet over medium-low heat. Place one slice of sourdough bread (butter-side down) and top with 2 slices of Colby Jack cheese, 1 cooked patty, and 2 more slices of Colby Jack cheese.
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Assemble the melt: Spread 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing on the unbuttered side of a second slice of bread. Place this sauce-side down on top of the sandwich. Grill each side of the melt for 2-3 minutes until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
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Serve and enjoy: Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all three patty melts are made. Slice and serve hot with your favorite sides, like fries or tater tots.
Tips and Variations:
- Bread choice: Sourdough gives the melt a slightly tangy, firm base that works wonderfully. If you prefer other types of bread, feel free to try Texas toast, pumpernickel, or thick slices of whole wheat.
- Cheese: Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses—pepper jack for spice, or Gouda for a smoky flavor.
- Sauce: For a homemade sauce, you can mix 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of real bacon bits, 1 teaspoon of sweet relish, and 1 teaspoon of white sugar. Stir until well-blended for a tasty, personalized sauce.
- Caramelized onions: If you’ve got the time, adding caramelized onions takes this sandwich to the next level!
- Sides: Pair with crispy fries, coleslaw, or a cold pasta salad for the perfect meal.
Enjoy your classic patty melt with gooey Colby Jack cheese and a crispy crust, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! It’s sure to become a favorite.
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