Copycat Whataburger Patty Melt Recipe

The Whataburger Patty Melt is a fan favorite, known for its mouthwatering layers of melted cheese, caramelized onions, and toasted bread, all sandwiching a juicy beef patty. This copycat recipe brings the classic Texas roadside diner experience right into your kitchen.

Equipment:

• Skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 mix for juiciness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of Texas Toast or thick-sliced white bread
• 4 slices of American cheese
• 4 slices of Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter, plus extra for spreading on the bread
• 1/4 cup creamy pepper sauce (recipe follows)

Creamy Pepper Sauce Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Creamy Pepper Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
2. Cook the Onions:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Form and Cook the Patties:
   • Divide the ground beef into two equal portions. Form each into a thin patty that is slightly larger than your bread slices.
   • Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   • In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat to your desired doneness, about 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Remove and set aside.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
   • Butter one side of each slice of bread. Spread the creamy pepper sauce on the non-buttered sides.
   • On two slices, layer a slice of American cheese, a cooked beef patty, half of the caramelized onions, a slice of Monterey Jack cheese, and top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
5. Grill the Patty Melts:
   • Heat the skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the patty melts in half and serve hot. Enjoy the melting flavors of this diner classic.

Tips:

• For a juicier patty, avoid pressing down on the beef while it cooks as this can squeeze out the juices.
• Customize your sauce by adjusting the spices or adding hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Make sure the skillet is not too hot when toasting the sandwiches to avoid burning the bread before the cheese has melted.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Whataburger Patty Melt, where every bite combines the savory taste of beef, the sweetness of caramelized onions, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the unique flavor of pepper sauce, all encased in perfectly toasted bread. This patty melt is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, comforting meal.