Jalapeño Popper Patty Melt (Print Version)
Bold jalapeños, creamy cheese, savory beef, and toasted bread combine perfectly in this flavorful melt.
# Ingredients:
→ Beef Patties
01 -
1 pound ground beef, shaped into 2 equal patties
02 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
04 -
Kosher salt to taste
05 -
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Cheese Mixture
06 -
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
07 -
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese or pepper jack cheese
→ Assembly and Toppings
08 -
4 slices thick-cut bread, such as Texas toast
09 -
2 to 3 roasted jalapeño peppers, sliced
10 -
1/2 cup caramelized onions
11 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for toasting
12 -
Barbecue sauce, as needed
# Steps:
01 -
In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar or pepper jack until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, let it rest at room temperature for 5 minutes so it becomes easily spreadable.
02 -
Evenly season both beef patties on all sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Press the seasonings into the meat to help adhesion.
03 -
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side until a deep crust forms and they reach your desired doneness. Set aside on a plate to rest for 2 minutes.
04 -
Reduce skillet heat to medium. Melt some of the butter and toast each slice of bread for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown, adding more butter as necessary.
05 -
Generously spread the cream cheese mixture onto all toasted bread slices, ensuring the edges are well covered for even melting.
06 -
Top half the bread slices with caramelized onions, then arrange sliced roasted jalapeños over the onions.
07 -
Place one beef patty over the jalapeños on each sandwich base. Drizzle each patty with barbecue sauce.
08 -
Close each sandwich with a remaining slice of bread, creamy side down. Return to the skillet over medium-low heat and toast for 1 to 2 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the filling is heated through and cohesive.
09 -
Remove sandwiches from the skillet, slice each diagonally while still hot, and serve immediately while the filling remains creamy.
# Notes:
01 -
Resting the beef briefly ensures a juicier result and prevents cheese mixture from overheating during assembly.