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Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt


  • Author: emilyharper
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

A bold, comfort-food sandwich with savory ground beef and gooey cheese, layered between butter-toasted bread. Perfect for weeknights or late-night cravings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 46 slices good sandwich bread (sourdough, rye, or brioche)
  • 68 oz (175–225g) cheese (sharp cheddar + Swiss mix recommended)
  • 23 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Dill pickles or bread-and-butter pickles (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the ingredients: slice the onion, grate or slice the cheese, mince the garlic, and set the bread out to reach room temperature.
  2. Caramelize the onions: Heat 1 tbsp butter or oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onion with a pinch of salt, and cook until deep golden (15–20 minutes).
  3. Brown the ground beef: Increase heat to medium-high, add oil if needed, and add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Break up the beef with a spatula and let it sear.
  4. Add Worcestershire sauce: When the beef is nearly cooked, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and let it reduce. Add caramelized onions if using.
  5. Assemble the sandwich: Spread Dijon on one side of each bread slice. Pile the beef mixture on one slice and top with cheese, close with the other slice.
  6. Butter and griddle: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter the outsides of the sandwich and place it in the skillet. Cook 3–4 minutes per side.
  7. Rest and slice: Let the sandwich rest for 1–2 minutes, then cut diagonally and serve.

Notes

This sandwich is customizable; consider adding caramelized onions, pickles, or fresh herbs for added flavor. Ensure to let the beef mixture not be too wet to prevent soggy bread.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: cheesy beef sandwich, patty melt, comfort food