Whataburger Patty Melt Recipe

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Before diving into the wonderful world of the Whataburger patty melt, let’s talk pairings. A classic burger or sandwich deserves sides that elevate the experience, and there are some perfect companions for this delicious dish. You can’t go wrong with crispy fries, whether they’re straight-cut, crinkle-cut, or loaded with cheese.

For a little crunch and a lot of flavor, onion rings provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the patty melt. The tartness of dill pickles cuts through the heaviness and brightens your plate. A zesty coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the savory notes of the melt, while sweet potato fries offer a delightful twist for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness.

Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s get down to the delicious details of the Whataburger patty melt recipe.

As someone who loves fast food but also craves the joy of homemade meals, I’ve always been drawn to replicating my favorite dishes in my own kitchen. The Whataburger patty melt is one of those staples that never fails to hit the spot.

Juicy beef, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a secret sauce, all nestled between buttery Texas toast — it’s comfort food at its finest. I embarked on a culinary journey to recreate this iconic meal, and I can assure you, the results are mouthwatering.

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What is the Whataburger Patty Melt?

The Whataburger patty melt is an irresistible creation, blending the flavors of a classic burger with a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s made with an extra-lean beef patty, grilled onions, cheese, and a special sauce, served on crispy Texas toast. This dish captures the spirit of fast food while allowing you to enjoy it from the comfort of your home.

How Does It Taste?

Picture this: you take a bite of the melt. The first thing you notice is the juicy beef patty, perfectly seared and seasoned. Next, the creaminess of the Monterey Jack cheese coats your palate. But wait, there’s more! The caramelized onions provide a sweet and savory note, while the zesty creamy pepper sauce adds just the right kick. Each component plays a significant role in creating a balance of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This?

You want a recipe that not only satisfies your cravings but also feels like a warm hug. This is it! Here’s why you’ll want to add this recipe to your culinary repertoire:

Simplicity: It’s straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.

Customization: You can tweak ingredients to suit your taste.
Comfort: It provides that warm, cozy feeling that only comfort food can give.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it great for family meal nights.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Need to prep in advance? This recipe allows room for that, too!

Now that you’re on the edge of your seat, let’s gather those ingredients.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:

For the Patty Melt:

2 large eggs
3 pounds extra-lean ground beef

5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¾ cup rich Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning blend
1 large onion, thinly sliced
10 slices thick-cut Texas toast

10 slices creamy Monterey Jack cheese
15 ½-ounce bottle of zesty creamy pepper sauce

For the Homemade Whataburger Secret Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup whole grain Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon smoky barbecue sauce

1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Secret Sauce

Start by making the Whataburger secret sauce. In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, seasoning, black pepper, parsley, and onion powder. Mix until smooth.

Step 2: Make the Beef Patties

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, garlic seasoning, paprika, and Slap Ya Mama seasoning. Mix gently, then form equal-sized patties.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and caramelize until golden brown—about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning.

Step 4: Grill the Patties

In another skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach your desired doneness. Place a slice of Monterey Jack cheese on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.

Step 5: Toast the Bread

In a separate pan, melt the remaining butter. Toast the Texas toast in the butter until golden brown on both sides.

Step 6: Assemble the Patty Melt

On one slice of toasted bread, spread a generous amount of secret sauce. Place the cheesy patty on top, followed by caramelized onions. Add another slice of toast on top, and voilà!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Cut the patty melt in half for easier handling. Serve it up with fries, onion rings, or any of your favorite sides.

Tips for Making Your Patty Melt Even Better

Here are some additional tips to ensure your patty melt is nothing short of fantastic:

Use Quality Beef: Opt for extra-lean ground beef for a healthier patty that still packs flavor.
Be Generous with Cheese: Don’t be shy with the cheese. Who doesn’t love a gooey melt?

Caramelize with Patience: Take your time with the onions for a richer flavor.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to play around with the secret sauce ingredients; add garlic, dill pickles, or a pinch of cayenne for added zest.
Don’t Rush the Toasting: A well-toasted bread is essential for the right texture.

Nutrition Information

whataburger patty melt recipe nutrition facts

How Do You Store This Patty Melt?

If you have leftovers (though I doubt they’ll last long), store them in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in a skillet to regain that crispness. Alternatively, you might prefer them warm in a microwave. Just be cautious; you don’t want a soggy melt.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in the Patty Melt Recipe?

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The flavor may be milder, so adjust your seasonings accordingly.

Alternative Breads: Instead of Texas toast, consider using sourdough, rye, or gluten-free bread for different textures and flavors.
Different Cheeses: While Monterey Jack is creamy and delicious, you might try cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda for a smoky flavor.
Vegetable Patties: For a vegetarian spin, use a black bean or veggie burger instead of beef. This way, you still enjoy that hearty feel.

Grilled Portobello Mushroom: Replace the patty with a grilled portobello mushroom cap for a meaty yet plant-based alternative.

Now, let’s address some common questions you might have.

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Author: Lori Walker, MS, RD

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 40

Cook Time: 20

Total Time: 1

Servings: Servings

Calories: 1243kcal

Equipment

bowl

Skillet

Ingredients

2 large eggs
3 pounds extra-lean ground beef

5 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
¾ cup rich Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning blend
1 large onion thinly sliced
10 slices thick-cut Texas toast

10 slices creamy Monterey Jack cheese
15 ½- ounce bottle of zesty creamy pepper sauce

For the Homemade Whataburger Secret Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

⅓ cup whole grain Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon smoky barbecue sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce adjust to taste

½ teaspoon Slap Ya Mama seasoning
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon onion powder