There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a perfectly melted patty melt, and this one takes the classic favorite to a whole new level. Picture this: a warm, toasty sandwich cradling juicy beef patties, rich cheese, and a smoky charred scallion-chipotle mayo that brings an unexpected kick. After a long week, nothing quite beats the comfort of home-cooked meals—especially those that please the whole family.
As I experimented one afternoon, the scent of sizzling scallions filled my kitchen, transporting me back to my grandmother’s stove where flavor was celebrated and meals were made with love. If you’re yearning for a dish that makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to, these Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo are your answer. Perfect for both busy nights and lazy weekends, this crowd-pleasing sandwich is sure to banish any lingering cravings for takeout. Grab your apron—let’s bring some homemade comfort to the table!
Why Love Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo?
Irresistible Comfort: Each bite is a delightful fusion of juicy beef, melted cheese, and smoky mayo that brings a tear of joy to your eye.
Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy evenings when you crave something homemade.
Creative Spin: The charred scallions add a unique twist, elevating this classic to a new level of flavor.
Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, it guarantees happy faces around the dinner table.
Versatile Meal: Serve with a side salad for lunch or dinner; it’s always a win!
Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo Ingredients
For the Meat Patties
- 80% lean ground beef – This blend ensures juicy patties with enough fat to hold flavor.
- Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the beef’s natural flavor; feel free to adjust to taste.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground pepper takes the flavor up a notch for these satisfying patties.
For the Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo
- Scallions – These lend a mild onion flavor; char them for that smoky touch that pairs perfectly.
- Olive oil – A dash helps in achieving that lovely char on the scallions.
- Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess that balances the heat from chipotle.
- Minced canned chipotle chiles – They bring a smoky spiciness that tantalizes the taste buds.
- Adobo sauce – A spoonful adds an extra layer of flavor to the mayo.
For Assembly
- Bakery white or rye sandwich bread – The choice of bread adds texture; go for a sturdy loaf.
- Oaxaca cheese (quesillo) or Monterey Jack cheese – Both melt beautifully, enveloping the patties in cheesy goodness.
- Unsalted butter – This golden touch ensures a crispy and deliciously brown exterior on your sandwiches.
With these ingredients, your Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo will be a hit, making comfort food a celebration!
How to Make Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo
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Shape the Patties: Form the ground beef into 4 thin patties, ensuring they match the size and shape of your bread slices. Set these aside while you get ready for the next step.
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Char the Scallions: In a bowl, toss the scallions with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the scallions. Cook them for about 4 minutes until charred and tender. Once done, transfer to a cutting board, chop coarsely, and mix with 1/4 cup mayonnaise, chipotle chiles, and adobo sauce. Set this zesty mixture aside!
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Cook the Patties: Melt the butter in the skillet over medium-high heat. Place the beef patties in, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes until the bottoms are well browned. Flip the patties, add the remaining seasoning, and cook until desired doneness, about 2-3 minutes for medium-rare (145°F). Transfer them to paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread about 1 tablespoon of the charred scallion-chipotle mayo on 4 slices of bread. Layer each slice with 1 cheese slice, 1 patty, and another cheese slice, topping them with the remaining bread slices.
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Grill the Sandwiches: Return the skillet to medium heat. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of mayonnaise on one outer side of each sandwich and place them mayo-side down in the skillet. Grill until the bottoms are golden brown, about 1.5 to 3 minutes. Flip the sandwiches, spreading another 1/2 tablespoon of mayonnaise on the top to help them brown nicely. Cook until the cheese is melty and the bottoms are toasty for another 2-3 minutes. Cut in half and serve hot.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the beef patties and charred scallion-chipotle mayo up to 24 hours in advance—just store the patties in an airtight container and refrigerate the mayo mixture in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to enjoy these delicious sandwiches, simply cook the patties as instructed, assemble the sandwiches, and grill them to perfection. This approach saves precious time on busy weeknights while ensuring the flavors remain just as vibrant. The mayo will stay fresh and flavorful, offering that delightful spicy kick right when you serve them!
Patty Melt Variations
There’s no end to the delicious twists you can put on this comforting classic.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out cheese for a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or thinly sliced banana peppers to the patties for an extra layer of warmth and crunch.
- Garlic-Infused: Mix minced garlic into the beef mixture for a savory aroma that pairs beautifully with the smoky mayo. The garlic elevates the whole flavor experience.
- Herb-Heavy: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley added to the mayo not only brighten the flavor but also add a beautiful burst of color.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate shredded zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms into the beef for added moisture and a nutritious twist. Shredded veggies keep the patties juicy!
- Savory Sauces: Swap mayonnaise for ranch or sriracha mayo for a different flavor profile that’s equally delicious. The heat from sriracha can be balanced with a touch of honey if desired.
- Bread Options: Experiment with garlic bread or a whole grain loaf for a nutty and crunchy exterior that pairs beautifully with the melted cheese.
- Onion Lovers: Sauté thinly sliced onions along with the scallions for a deeper flavor and a sweet kick that complements the chipotle beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to find your favorite, turning each melt into a unique masterpiece!
Expert Tips for Patty Melts
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Patty Thickness: Make sure your beef patties are thin to ensure they cook evenly and fit perfectly between the bread slices.
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Charred Scallions: Don’t rush the charring process; allow the scallions to develop deep color for maximum flavor in your charred scallion-chipotle mayo.
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Cheese Melting: Use a lid while grilling sandwiches to help the cheese melt thoroughly, ensuring a gooey, delicious filling.
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Bread Choice: Choose bakery bread that can hold up under grilling; sturdy loaves like rye or thick white are perfect for these patty melts.
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Spacing in Skillet: Avoid crowding the skillet when cooking the patties and sandwiches for even cooking and better browning.
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Balance the Heat: Adjust the chipotle quantity in the mayo based on your heat preference to keep the flavors in harmony in your patty melts.
What to Serve with Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo?
Creating the perfect meal doesn’t just stop at the Patty Melts—it’s all about those lovely accompaniments that elevate your dining experience.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crunch balance the rich flavors of the melts, making for a delightful contrast.
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Classic Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the smoky mayo, creating a wholesome plate.
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Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter provide a fresh, crisp touch that rounds out this indulgent sandwich beautifully.
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Tangy Pickles: The sharpness of pickles brings a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness of the cheese and beef.
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Spicy Potato Wedges: A dash of spice on crispy wedges ties in perfectly with the chipotle mayo’s kick, adding an extra layer of flavor.
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Ice-Cold Lemonade: The refreshing citrus notes in lemonade provide a delightful contrast to the savory Patty Melts, enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these warm, gooey cookies will melt hearts and finish the meal on a sweet note, keeping everyone happy!
Storage Tips for Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo
Fridge: Keep leftover patty melts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors and textures of the beef and cheese.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen patty melts in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through, around 5-7 minutes, ensuring the cheese is melted again.
Serving: Always enjoy leftover patty melts with a fresh side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful meal that beats takeout any day!
Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best scallions for the mayo?
Look for scallions with bright green tops and firm white bulbs, avoiding any that have dark spots or wilted greens. Fresh scallions will enhance the flavor of your charred mayo; aim for scallions that stand tall and have a vibrant color.
What is the best way to store leftover patty melts?
Store your leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To preserve their flavor and texture, separate the sandwiches with parchment paper before sealing or wrap them in foil or plastic wrap.
Can I freeze my patty melts?
Absolutely! You can freeze patty melts for up to 2 months. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. For reheating, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty.
What should I do if my patties are drying out while cooking?
To keep your patties juicy, make sure to avoid overly high heat that cooks them too quickly. Keep the skillet at medium-high heat and don’t press down on the patties while they cook; this will help retain moisture. If they still seem dry, a little extra butter while cooking won’t hurt!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
If you’re serving these to someone with allergies, be mindful of the mayonnaise in the scallion-chipotle mayo which can contain eggs, and ensure the chipotle chiles meet any dietary restrictions. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To turn these Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo into a vegetarian delight, swap the beef patties for hearty grilled portobello mushrooms or black bean patties. The smoky chipotle mayo will still add wonderful flavor, preserving that satisfying and comforting element of a classic patty melt!
Savor Patty Melts with Charred Scallion-Chipotle Mayo Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Shape the ground beef into 4 thin patties, matching the size and shape of the bread slices.
- In a bowl, toss the scallions with olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the scallions. Cook for about 4 minutes until charred and tender.
- Transfer charred scallions to a cutting board, chop coarsely, and mix with mayonnaise, chipotle chiles, and adobo sauce.
- Melt butter in the skillet over medium-high heat. Season and cook the patties for about 2-3 minutes per side until well browned.
- Spread mayo on 4 slices of bread, layer with cheese slices and patties, then top with remaining bread.
- Grill sandwiches in the skillet, mayo-side down, until golden brown, then flip and cook until cheese is melty.