Andy Montoya
A patty melt is a sandwich made with a beef patty, caramelized onions, and cheese. The type of cheese used in a patty melt is a matter of some debate, with Swiss cheese being the most traditional, but American cheese, cheddar, provolone, and fontina also being common choices. The key characteristic of the cheese used in a patty melt is that it should melt easily and have a good flavor.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Swiss, American, Cheddar, Provolone |
| Number of Cheese Slices | 2 |
| Texture | Melty, Oozy |
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What You'll Learn
Swiss cheese is the most traditional
The patty melt is an American sandwich that was first added to the menu at Tiny Naylor Coffee Shop in California, where it was served as a beef patty between two slices of rye bread. The addition of Swiss cheese to this sandwich likely occurred not long after, as it was a popular cheese option in the 1950s.
While some people may prefer to use American cheese due to its meltability, Swiss cheese has a richer flavour and is the more traditional option. It also pairs well with the other classic ingredients in a patty melt, such as the rye bread and caramelized onions.
When making a patty melt with Swiss cheese, it is best to use thick slices of baby Swiss for the optimal flavour and melting experience. This type of cheese will melt into the sandwich while still retaining its structure, creating a delicious and indulgent bite.
In conclusion, Swiss cheese is the most traditional choice for a patty melt. Its use in this classic sandwich dates back to the 1940s or 1950s, and it remains a popular option today due to its flavour and melting characteristics.
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American cheese melts better
A patty melt is a sandwich made with a beef patty, cheese, and caramelized onions. It is cooked like a grilled cheese sandwich, with the beef patty assembled between two slices of toasted bread with cheese and onions. The bread is usually crispy and crunchy, and the cheese is melted. While Swiss cheese is a popular choice for patty melts, American cheese is also a suitable option and is known for its excellent melting properties.
American cheese is a processed cheese product made from a blend of natural cheese, whey, milk solids, cream, and emulsifiers. It is designed to be highly meltable, with a uniform texture and a smooth, creamy consistency when melted. This is achieved through specific formulation and processing methods, including the addition of extra milk, milk protein micelles, and chemical salt, which prevent the protein structure from tightening and give American cheese a very low melting point.
The controlled fat levels and fine protein structure of American cheese contribute to its meltability and prevent issues such as oiliness or clumping that can occur with other cheeses, like Monterey Jack or aged Cheddar. The emulsifiers and additives in American cheese further enhance its melting properties, ensuring a creamy, lump-free melt. This makes it a popular choice for dishes like burgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, and macaroni and cheese, where a smooth and even melt is desired.
When using American cheese in a patty melt, it is important to consider the temperature and cooking method. While American cheese melts at a very low temperature, adding it to the sandwich off-heat or with the heat turned down can help prevent it from becoming greasy. Toasting the bread beforehand and incorporating butter can also help give the cheese a head start on melting and ensure it fuses well with the other ingredients.
In conclusion, American cheese is an excellent choice for a patty melt due to its superior melting properties. Its smooth and creamy consistency, uniform texture, and controlled fat levels make it ideal for creating a gooey and indulgent sandwich experience. With the right techniques, such as toasting the bread and controlling the heat, cooks can take advantage of American cheese's meltability to create a delicious and satisfying patty melt.
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Use both Swiss and American for max melt
The patty melt is a classic American sandwich that combines a cooked, seasoned ground beef patty, sweet and tangy caramelized onions, and cheese on toasted bread. It's a perfect mix of a grilled cheese sandwich and a burger.
While Swiss cheese is the most traditional choice for a patty melt, some people prefer American cheese for its meltability. It's made mostly from whey, milk, and stabilizers, which is why it melts at a very low temperature. However, this can also make it go completely liquid, especially when combined with other loose toppings like onions.
To get the best of both cheeses, you can use both Swiss and American. Start by toasting the bread on both sides to warm it up and give the cheese a head start on melting. Then, use two full slices of each cheese, tearing them into pieces and arranging them on the bread slices for maximum coverage. This will give you the perfect amount of melt and flavor.
When constructing your sandwich, don't forget the other key ingredient: caramelized onions. These add a delicious sweet and tangy layer to the sandwich and balance out the richness of the butter, meat, and cheese. You can also add other toppings like mushrooms, peppers, or Russian dressing to make your patty melt extra special.
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Cheddar, provolone, or fontina are alternatives
A patty melt is a sandwich that combines a beef patty with caramelized onions and cheese on toasted bread. While Swiss cheese is the most traditional choice, you can also use American cheese, which melts beautifully and adds flavour to the sandwich. However, some people prefer to use both types of cheese to get the best of both worlds in terms of meltability and flavour.
If you're looking for alternatives to Swiss or American cheese, Cheddar, provolone, or fontina are great options to consider. These cheeses can add a unique twist to your patty melt while still providing that delicious, melty texture.
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for those who want a sharper, more robust flavour. It pairs well with the sweetness of the caramelized onions and can add a nice tang to the sandwich. Cheddar also melts relatively well, ensuring that your patty melt has that gooey, mouthwatering quality.
Provolone is another excellent alternative. It has a milder flavour compared to Swiss or Cheddar, but it still packs a creamy, nutty punch. Provolone melts exceptionally well, making it ideal for sandwiches like the patty melt. It adds a smooth and creamy texture that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
Fontina cheese is a lesser-known option, but it's a wonderful choice for those who want something a little different. Fontina has a mild, nutty flavour and a creamy, buttery texture. It melts smoothly and adds a rich, savoury element to the patty melt. If you're looking to elevate your sandwich with a more unique cheese, fontina is a great way to go.
Remember, the beauty of the patty melt is that you can customise it to your liking. While Swiss and American cheeses are the classic choices, don't be afraid to experiment with Cheddar, provolone, or fontina to find your perfect combination of flavours and textures.
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Cheese should be added with low heat
A patty melt is a sandwich that combines a beef patty, caramelized onions, and cheese. It is important to note that the type of cheese used can vary based on personal preference. While Swiss cheese is the most traditional option, other popular choices include American cheese, cheddar, and provolone.
When making a patty melt, it is crucial to add the cheese with low heat. This is because cheese has a low melting point and can easily burn or break if exposed to high temperatures. By keeping the heat low, you allow the cheese to melt slowly and evenly, creating a creamy and smooth texture without burning or becoming greasy.
One technique to ensure the cheese melts properly is to toast the bread before assembling the sandwich. By toasting the bread, you give the cheese a head start on melting, reducing the risk of overheating. Additionally, using a combination of Swiss and American cheeses can improve meltability while enhancing the flavour.
Another tip to consider is the thickness of the cheese slices. Opting for thicker slices of cheese can provide a more substantial melting experience. Thick slices of baby Swiss cheese, for instance, are commonly recommended for a classic patty melt. However, shredded cheese can also be used if preferred.
When assembling the patty melt, it is generally recommended to place the cheese directly onto the bread rather than letting it touch the pan. This helps to prevent overheating and ensures that the cheese melts evenly. Adding a dressing, such as Thousand Island dressing, can also enhance the flavour and moisture of the sandwich.
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Frequently asked questions
Swiss cheese is the most traditional cheese used in a patty melt, but American, cheddar, or fontina are also common alternatives.
Swiss cheese is used in a patty melt because it is a good melting cheese with a strong flavour.
American cheese is used in a patty melt because it melts well and has a good flavour. However, some people believe that it becomes greasy when combined with other toppings.
Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as provolone or cheddar.
The amount of cheese used in a patty melt is up to personal preference. Some recipes call for one slice of cheese per sandwich, while others use two or more slices.
