Name: Grilled Cheese Patty Melts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 slices sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or rye); 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or 8 slices; 4 tbsp mayonnaise or softened butter (for spreading); Optional: caramelized onions, mustard, or pickles; Special Equipment:; Skillet or griddle; Spatula; Mixing bowl

Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

Every once in a while, a recipe sneaks its way into our weekly rotation and never quite leaves—and that’s exactly what happened with these Grilled Cheese Patty Melts. It all started on a chilly Friday night when I wanted something hearty, cheesy, and comforting that didn’t require a mountain of dishes or a trip to the grocery store. I had ground beef, slices of cheddar, and bread… and suddenly, the humble grilled cheese got a serious glow-up.

The first time I made these, I honestly wasn’t expecting the reaction I got. The kids were wide-eyed and completely silent during dinner (a miracle in itself), and my husband called dibs on the leftovers before I’d even sat down. There’s just something magical about the way the buttery, golden bread hugs that juicy beef and ooey-gooey melted cheese. It’s diner-style comfort meets weeknight convenience.

What I especially love is how simple it is to make these with pantry staples. You don’t need anything fancy—just good-quality ingredients and a hot skillet. It’s satisfying, nostalgic, and wildly craveable. And the best part? You can jazz them up with onions, sauces, or extra cheeses depending on your mood. But even in its most basic form, this patty melt is perfection.

This recipe isn’t just a dinner—it’s a cozy memory in the making. One bite and you’ll see why it’s stuck around in our kitchen—and why I’ll never go back to plain grilled cheese again.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the patties ahead and refrigerate them. When you’re ready, assemble and grill the sandwiches fresh.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar and American cheese are classic for their meltability and flavor. Swiss also works beautifully for a nuttier taste.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or even chicken can be used, just be sure to season generously to keep the flavor rich.

What kind of bread is best?
I recommend a sturdy white bread or sourdough that holds up to the juicy filling and gets that crisp golden crust.

Do I need a cast-iron skillet?
Nope! Any non-stick or heavy-bottomed skillet will work just fine. Just make sure it’s hot enough to give you that lovely sear.

What You Need to Make Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

1 lb ground beef

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

8 slices sandwich bread (white, sourdough, or rye)

1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or 8 slices

4 tbsp mayonnaise or softened butter (for spreading)

Optional: caramelized onions, mustard, or pickles

Special Equipment:

Skillet or griddle

Spatula

Mixing bowl

How to Make Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

Prepare the patties: In a bowl, season the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into four equal portions and shape into thin, wide patties to match the shape of your bread slices.

Cook the patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked. Set aside on a plate.

Assemble the sandwiches: Spread mayo or butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer cheese, a cooked patty, any extras (onions, mustard), and more cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side facing out.

Grill the sandwiches: Heat the skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the skillet and grill 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Serve immediately: Slice in half and serve hot with chips, pickles, or a simple salad.

Tips for Making the Best Grilled Cheese Patty Melts

Don’t skip the mayo or butter—it creates that golden, crispy crust on the bread.

Shred your own cheese for best melting results—it’s creamier and more flavorful than pre-shredded.

Add onions—caramelized onions take these melts to the next level.

Make it spicy—a dash of hot sauce or pepper jack cheese adds a fun kick.

Use a lid while grilling to help the cheese melt faster without burning the bread.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This has become a Friday night staple. Everyone fights over the last one!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I used ground turkey instead and it still turned out amazing. Next time I’ll try with Swiss cheese too.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My kids devoured these! I love how simple and satisfying this recipe is.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Tasty, but I found the bread got a little too greasy. I might try using less butter next time.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Absolutely delicious. This is like a cross between a burger and grilled cheese—what’s not to love?”

Printable Recipe

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