Delicious Patty Melt Recipes for BBQ Grilling

Welcome, fellow BBQ enthusiasts, to our latest culinary exploration. This time, we’re delving into the heartwarming world of Patty Melts, a classic comfort food that has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of many. So grab your grilling gear, and let’s get started.

Brief History of Patty Melts

The journey of the patty melt is as intriguing as its taste. Born out of the union of a hamburger and a grilled cheese sandwich, this culinary creation first appeared on the American food scene back in the 1940s. Its invention is credited to Tiny Naylor, a Los Angeles restaurateur, who had a penchant for reinventing and redefining traditional recipes.

The patty melt, in its most basic form, is a beef patty sandwiched between two slices of rye bread and adorned with caramelized onions and melted cheese. Over time, this classic configuration has evolved, with chefs and home cooks adding their unique spins to this timeless favorite.

Appeal of BBQ Grilled Patty Melts

There’s something undeniably irresistible about a patty melt prepared on a BBQ grill. The lightly charred beef patty, the soft, buttery onions, and the cheese, oh the cheese, melted to gooey perfection – it’s a symphony of flavors that leaves you craving more.

When you grill a patty melt, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating an experience. The smoky aroma that wafts through the air, the sizzle of the patty on the hot grill, the golden-brown crust of the bread – it’s a sensory delight. And the best part? You can customize your patty melt to suit your palate. Whether you like it spicy, filled with veggies, or prefer the classic version, we’ve got you covered.

If you’ve been experimenting with our best burger recipes or our homemade burger patties, you’ll find patty melts a delightful addition to your grilling repertoire.

Stay tuned as we explore the world of patty melts and share some of our favorite recipes. Let’s fire up those grills and get cooking, shall we?

Classic Patty Melt Recipe

When it comes to BBQ grilling, few things can beat the iconic, mouth-watering taste of a classic patty melt. This timeless creation has been sizzling on our grills and tantalizing our taste buds for generations. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need and the steps you’ll take to prepare this tantalizing sandwich.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your classic patty melt:

Ingredient	Quantity
Ground beef	1 lb
Sliced Swiss cheese	4 slices
Sliced rye bread	8 slices
Yellow onions	2, thinly sliced
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons
Salt	to taste
Pepper	to taste

Remember to choose high-quality ground beef, as it’s the star of the show in this recipe. You can even consider making your own homemade burger patties for an extra personal touch.

Preparation Steps

Prepare your ingredients: Start by thinly slicing your onions. Season your ground beef with salt and pepper, then shape it into four equal patties.
Cook the onions: Melt a tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they are caramelized. This process might take a bit of time, but trust us, it’s worth the wait.
Grill the patties: Fire up your BBQ grill and cook your patties to your desired doneness. We recommend a medium to medium-well cook for the juiciest result. Don’t forget to flip your patties occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
Assemble the sandwich: Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. On the non-buttered side, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, a patty, some caramelized onions, another slice of Swiss cheese, and then top it with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
Grill the sandwich: Place your assembled sandwich on the grill, and cook until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Flip the sandwich occasionally to prevent it from burning.
Serve and enjoy: Once your patty melt is perfectly grilled, give it a minute to cool down, then slice it in half and serve. Enjoy the delectable blend of flavors in every bite!

This classic patty melt recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot every time. It’s the perfect blend of juicy meat, rich cheese, and sweet caramelized onions sandwiched between two slices of crispy rye bread. Now, go ahead and fire up that grill! It’s time for us to bring this classic BBQ legend to life. And remember, you can always add your own twist by trying out some gourmet burger toppings. Happy grilling!

Spicy Patty Melt Recipe

In the realm of BBQ grilling, there’s always room for a little heat, and our Spicy Patty Melt fits the bill perfectly. This recipe is for those of us who believe that a little spice makes everything nice. So, buckle up, fellow BBQ enthusiasts, because we’re about to turn up the heat!

Ingredients

For this fiery delight, you’ll need:

1 pound of ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon of hot sauce (we recommend a smoky chipotle variety)
1/2 cup of chopped jalapenos (pickled or fresh)
4 slices of pepper jack cheese
8 slices of rye bread
4 tablespoons of butter
1 large onion, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Combine the ground beef, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, hot sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef.
Form the beef mixture into 4 patties, ensuring they are slightly larger than your bread slices.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the patties for about 5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
While the patties are grilling, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, and sauté the onions until they’re golden brown and caramelized.
Place a slice of cheese on each patty and allow it to melt.
Assemble your spicy patty melts by layering a patty, a generous helping of caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of chopped jalapenos between two slices of rye bread.
Return the assembled sandwiches to the grill, and cook until the bread is toasted and the cheese is oozy and melted.

This Spicy Patty Melt is a fantastic twist on one of our best burger recipes. We encourage you to try it, especially if you’re a fan of heat and flavor. Remember, the joy of BBQ grilling is in the experimentation—so don’t be afraid to dial up or down the spiciness to suit your taste buds. Enjoy the heat, folks!

Veggie Patty Melt Recipe

For those of us who prefer a greener menu or simply want to try something new, we’ve got just the recipe. This veggie patty melt is full of vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and, importantly, it grills up beautifully on the BBQ.

Ingredients

4 veggie patties (homemade or store bought)
8 slices of whole grain bread
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 cups of swiss cheese, shredded
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own homemade burger patties. There’s nothing like the satisfaction of creating your own delicious patty from scratch!

Preparation Steps

Preheat your grill: Aim for a medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C). As with any grilling adventure, a preheated grill ensures your food cooks evenly and obtains that deliciously crispy exterior we all love.
Caramelize your onions: Melt two tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the onions, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally until the onions are golden brown. This usually takes around 30 minutes but it’s worth the wait. The caramelized onions provide a sweet contrast to the savory veggie patty and melty cheese.
Grill your veggie patties: Place your veggie patties on the grill. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes or until they’re nicely charred and cooked through.
Assemble your melt: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the non-buttered side of four slices, pile on your cheese, a veggie patty, caramelized onions, more cheese, and finally top with the remaining slices of bread (buttered side out).
Grill your melt: Place each melt back on the grill. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is perfectly toasted and the cheese is oozing.
Enjoy: Let your melts rest for a couple of minutes before slicing in half. Serve warm and enjoy the melange of flavors!

Remember, BBQ grilling isn’t just for meat lovers. With creative recipes like this veggie patty melt, we can all partake in the joy of grilling. So why not fire up the grill this weekend and give this recipe a try? We guarantee it’ll be a hit!

Tips for Grilling the Perfect Patty Melt

A finger-licking, soul-satisfying patty melt is no accident. It’s a symphony of harmonious flavors, textures, and temperatures, all masterfully conducted by the griller. Let’s delve into the rudiments of creating the perfect patty melt.

Choosing the Right Meat

The cornerstone of any patty melt is, of course, the meat. When selecting the beef, go for a relatively fatty cut – 80% lean and 20% fat is our golden ratio. This ensures a juicy, flavorful patty that won’t dry out on the grill. Ground chuck is a prime choice for this, boasting a rich, beefy flavor that stands up well to the grilling process. For an adventurous twist, consider blending meats. A mix of ground beef and spicy sausage, for example, can bring an unexpected depth of flavor to your patty melt.

Grilling Techniques

Ah, the art of grilling! It’s where the magic happens. To achieve the quintessential sear, preheat your grill to a high temperature before introducing your patties. This helps to lock in juices and create that coveted caramelized crust. After searing, lower the heat to finish cooking the patties, ensuring they’re done to perfection without burning. Remember, patience is key – resist the urge to press down on your patties with the spatula, as this will only squeeze out those precious juices.

If you’re looking to up your grilling game, check out our best burger recipes for some expert tips and tricks.

Choosing Your Cheese and Bread

Once you’ve nailed your patty, it’s time to turn your attention to the accompaniments. When it comes to cheese, think melty. Swiss, Provolone, and Monterey Jack are classic choices that melt beautifully and complement the robust flavor of the beef. If you’re feeling a bit daring, try a sharp Cheddar or a smoky Gouda for a unique twist.

As for the bread, we’re staunch advocates for traditional rye, which lends a slightly tart contrast to the rich, savory elements of the patty melt. However, a good-quality sourdough or even a hearty multigrain can work wonders if rye isn’t your thing. Ultimately, the key is to choose a bread that can hold up to the juiciness of the patty and the melting cheese without becoming soggy.

Remember, a patty melt is a canvas for culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of beef, cheese, and bread to find your personal patty melt nirvana. For some inspiration, take a look at our gourmet burger toppings for more ways to elevate your grilling game.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to BBQ grilling, the main course is just the beginning. The right side dishes and drinks can elevate your patty melt from a standalone delight to part of a cohesive, tantalizing meal. Here are our suggestions:

Side Dishes

Complement your patty melt with sides that will not only satisfy your palate but also balance out your meal.

Homemade Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy taste of coleslaw is the perfect counterpoint to the rich flavors of the patty melt. Plus, it’s a dish that you can easily customize to your tastes. For an extra kick, why not try adding some jalapeños?
Sweet Potato Fries: Swap out regular fries for sweet potato fries for a healthier alternative. They’re a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your meal, and they pair wonderfully with the savory taste of the patty melt.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: A classic BBQ side, corn on the cob provides a juicy, sweet contrast to the hearty patty melt. Try grilling it for a smoky flavor that will match perfectly with your BBQ theme.
Pickle Spears: Nothing beats the crunch and tang of a good pickle to cut through the richness of a patty melt. Remember, it’s all about balance!

Drinks

The drink you choose to accompany your BBQ meal is just as important as the food. Here are a few of our favorites:

Craft Beers: A cold beer is a BBQ staple, and with the rise of craft breweries, your options are nearly endless. A hoppy IPA or a smoky porter can hold its own against the robust flavors of a patty melt.
Red Wine: If you’re more of a wine person, a full-bodied red like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Zinfandel can stand up to the rich, meaty flavors of the patty melt.
Lemonade: For a non-alcoholic option, you can’t go wrong with a refreshing homemade lemonade. Sweet, tangy, and thirst-quenching, it’s a classic BBQ drink.
Iced Tea: Another great non-alcoholic choice, iced tea provides a clean, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the patty melt. You can sweeten it to your liking, or even add a twist of lemon or a sprig of mint.

Remember, food and drink pairing is a personal journey. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what combinations work best for you. And while you’re experimenting, why not check out our other best burger recipes and gourmet burger toppings? Happy grilling!

Final Thoughts on Patty Melt Recipes

Encouragement to Experiment

We urge you not to be afraid to get creative in the kitchen! The beauty of cooking lies in the endless possibilities and variations you can explore. While we’ve shared some of our favorite patty melt recipes, don’t let these guidelines limit your culinary adventure.

Experiment with different kinds of cheese, try your hand at making your own artisanal bread, or even venture into creating your own unique concoction of homemade sauces. You might find your next favorite dish in an unexpected combination.

And don’t forget to check out our best burger recipes for more inspiration!

Closing Thoughts on BBQ Grilling Patty Melts

BBQ grilling patty melts is an art, a deliciously satisfying tradition that can be passed down through generations, or simply a hobby that brings a unique joy to summer gatherings.

The rich, mouth-watering aroma of grilling patties, the satisfying crunch of perfectly toasted bread, the delectable ooze of melted cheese – these are simple pleasures that we believe everyone should experience.

As we wrap up our exploration of patty melt recipes, we hope you’ve found inspiration to fire up the grill and embark on your own BBQ journey.

Remember, the key to a perfect patty melt lies not only in the ingredients you choose, but also in the love and passion you pour into your cooking. And of course, never underestimate the power of a great bbq sauce for burgers.

So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, savor the sizzle of the grill, and let the tantalizing flavors of a perfectly crafted patty melt take you on a gastronomic adventure.

Happy grilling, folks!