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.
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.
Notes
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.