Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Meatloaf Patty Melts! This recipe transforms a classic meatloaf into an irresistible open-faced sandwich, featuring rich, flavorful ground beef nestled on a perfectly toasted bun, all crowned with a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a humble, filling, and incredibly delicious meal that promises to satisfy your cravings.

Meatloaf Patty Melts: A Nostalgic Diner Classic Perfect for Any Meal

Few dishes evoke the cozy, satisfying feeling of an old-fashioned diner meal quite like a patty melt. And while the tuna melt holds a special place in many hearts, we’re taking that beloved concept to a whole new level with our spectacular Meatloaf Patty Melts. Imagine succulent, seasoned meatloaf, thinly spread over a crisp, toasted bun, then baked until golden and topped with gooey, melted cheddar cheese. This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a comforting embrace, a testament to simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavor. It’s the kind of hearty dish that brings everyone to the table, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a nostalgic weekend lunch.

Why You’ll Love These Meatloaf Patty Melts

If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, these meatloaf patty melts are about to become your new favorite. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Uncomplicated Comfort: This dish delivers pure, unpretentious flavor that’s both familiar and deeply satisfying. It’s the definition of feel-good food.
• Quick & Easy: While meatloaf often requires lengthy baking, these open-faced melts come together much faster, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Twist: It takes the beloved taste of meatloaf and presents it in an exciting, sandwich-style format that’s fun to eat and packed with savory goodness.
• Versatile & Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your taste preferences with different cheeses, spices, or even types of bread.
• Family Favorite: Meatloaf is a hit with kids and adults alike, and serving it as a sandwich adds an element of novelty that even picky eaters will appreciate.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Have leftover meatloaf? This is an ingenious way to transform it into a completely new and exciting meal, making meal prep a breeze.

Essential Tips for Crafting the Perfect Meatloaf Patty Melts

Achieving the perfect meatloaf patty melt is all about a few key details. Follow these tips to ensure your sandwiches are nothing short of spectacular:

• Choose Leaner Meat: For this recipe, a leaner ground beef (at least 90% lean) is highly recommended. Higher fat content can lead to excessive grease dripping into your bun, making it soggy and less enjoyable. Leaner meat helps maintain the structural integrity and crispness of your sandwich.
• Cracker Alternatives: No saltine crackers on hand? No problem! Plain, crushed corn flakes or even breadcrumbs (panko or regular) make excellent binders. The goal is to absorb moisture and add texture to the meatloaf mixture.
• For a Crunchier Bun: For an extra layer of texture and to prevent a soggy bottom, lightly toast your sub rolls before topping them with the meatloaf mixture. This creates a barrier and adds a delightful crunch with every bite.
• Don’t Overmix the Meat: While it’s tempting to really work the meatloaf mixture, overmixing can result in a tough, dense meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated to keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Even Spreading: Ensure the meatloaf mixture is spread evenly across each bun half. This promotes even cooking and ensures every bite has a balanced ratio of meat to bun.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety. This guarantees it’s cooked through without being overdone.
• Adjust Ketchup to Taste: The amount of ketchup used for topping is entirely up to you. Some prefer a light drizzle, while others enjoy a generous layer. Don’t be shy to customize!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Meatloaf Patty Melts

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these incredible meatloaf patty melts. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few notes on why each component is key:

• Sub Rolls: The foundation of our open-faced sandwich. Sturdy enough to hold the meatloaf but soft enough to enjoy. You can also use slices of crusty bread or even hamburger buns.
• Lean Ground Beef: As mentioned, lean beef is crucial for a non-soggy bun and a perfectly textured meatloaf. It’s the star of the show, providing rich, savory flavor.
• Crushed Saltine Crackers: These act as a binder, absorbing moisture and keeping the meatloaf mixture tender and cohesive. They also add a subtle salty note.
• Egg: Another essential binder that helps hold the meatloaf together, preventing it from crumbling when cooked.
• Small Onion (minced): Adds aromatic depth and a subtle sweetness that complements the beef. Mincing ensures it blends seamlessly into the meatloaf.
• Milk: Contributes to the moisture and tenderness of the meatloaf, ensuring it stays juicy during baking.
• Ketchup (plus more for topping): Provides a tangy, sweet, and savory base for the meatloaf mixture and a classic topping for the finished melts.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for umami flavor! It adds a complex, savory depth that elevates the entire dish.
• Dried Thyme: Earthy and aromatic, thyme is a classic herb that pairs wonderfully with beef and gives the meatloaf a comforting, herbaceous note.
• Garlic Powder: Delivers a consistent garlic flavor throughout the meatloaf, enhancing its savory profile.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The perfect melting cheese! It creates a gooey, golden crown that completes the patty melt experience. Feel free to use sharp or mild.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the best in all the ingredients. Adjust to your personal preference.

How to Make Meatloaf Patty Melts: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful meatloaf patty melts is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering meal:

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Surface

Preheat your oven to a robust 450°F (232°C). This high temperature ensures a nice crust on the meatloaf and quickly melts the cheese. Take your sub rolls and carefully split them in half lengthwise. Arrange the split rolls cut-side up on a baking sheet. You can line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Set them aside while you prepare the meatloaf mixture.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Meatloaf Mixture

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients for the meatloaf: the lean ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, egg, minced onion, milk, 4 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. These ingredients will meld together to form the savory core of your patty melt.

Step 3: Combine and Apply

For the best results, get your hands in there! With clean hands, gently but thoroughly combine the meatloaf mixture until all ingredients are well distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough. Once combined, take equal portions of the meat mixture and spread it evenly over each half of the prepared sub rolls. Aim for a layer that is thick enough to be substantial but not so thick it overwhelms the bun.

Step 4: Add More Ketchup (Optional, but Recommended!)

This is where you can personalize your patty melt. Spread an additional layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf mixture. Whether you prefer a light spread or a generous dollop, this extra ketchup will caramelize slightly in the oven, adding a delicious tangy glaze.

Step 5: Bake and Add Cheese

Carefully place the baking sheet with your meatloaf-topped buns into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and registers an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) with a meat thermometer. The meatloaf should be lightly browned. Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each meatloaf patty.

Step 6: Melt the Cheese and Serve

Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Once the cheese is perfectly gooey, remove the meatloaf patty melts from the oven. Serve them immediately with your favorite sides. These hearty sandwiches can be enjoyed with your hands, or with a knife and fork if you prefer!

Serving Suggestions for Your Meatloaf Patty Melts

Meatloaf Patty Melts are a meal in themselves, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate the experience. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:

• Classic Diner Sides: You can’t go wrong with crispy French fries or potato chips for that authentic diner feel. A side of coleslaw or potato salad would also be excellent.
• Light & Fresh: To balance the richness of the meatloaf, serve with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. Steamed green beans or a medley of roasted vegetables offer a healthy and colorful contrast.
• Comforting Additions: Creamy mashed potatoes or a warm bowl of tomato soup would make for a truly comforting meal.
• Pickled Perfection: Pickles, whether dill or bread and butter, offer a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese beautifully.
• Beverage Pairings: A cold glass of iced tea, a classic soda, or even a local craft beer would complement these hearty sandwiches perfectly.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Meatloaf Patty Melts is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with these ideas to make them your own:

• Cheese Swap: While cheddar is classic, try Swiss, provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
• Bread Choices: Instead of sub rolls, use slices of sourdough, rye bread (for a true patty melt vibe), Texas toast, or classic hamburger buns.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture, or serve with a side of sriracha mayo for those who like heat.
• Herbacious Twist: Experiment with other dried herbs like oregano, basil, or a blend of Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetable Boost: Finely grated carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can be mixed into the meatloaf for added moisture, flavor, and nutrients.
• Sauce It Up: Beyond ketchup, consider a tangy BBQ sauce, a creamy mushroom gravy, or even a quick homemade onion jam as a topping.
• Onion Option: For those who love the classic patty melt with caramelized onions, sauté some thinly sliced onions until golden brown and sweet, then layer them over the meatloaf before adding cheese.

Storage and Reheating Meatloaf Patty Melts

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Meatloaf Patty Melts can be stored and reheated, though they are best enjoyed fresh. Here’s how:

• Storage: Allow any leftover patty melts to cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual meatloaf patties (without the bun or cheese) for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating (Oven/Toaster Oven): This is the best method for maintaining texture. Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melts directly on a baking sheet. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatloaf is heated through and the cheese is re-melted and bubbly.
• Reheating (Microwave): While quicker, the microwave can sometimes make the bun soggy. Reheat individual patty melts on a microwave-safe plate for 60-90 seconds, or until heated through. Be aware that the bun may lose its crispness.
• Reheating (Air Fryer): For a crispy bun, reheat in an air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes, checking periodically until hot and crispy.

Craving More Meatloaf Recipes?

If you’ve fallen in love with these Meatloaf Patty Melts and are looking for more delicious meatloaf inspiration, explore these fantastic recipes:

• Crock Pot Meatloaf
• Air Fryer Meatloaf
• Instant Pot Meatloaf
• Italian Meatloaf
• Crock Pot French Onion Meatloaf
• Crock Pot Meatloaf Meatballs
• Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf
• Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf
• Crock Pot Salisbury Steak

Originally published: February 2012
Updated photos & republished: September 2020

Meatloaf Patty Melts

Meatloaf Patty Melt is an open-faced meatloaf sandwich with melted cheese on top. Made up of flavorful ground beef on a toasted bun!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 6

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 4 (6-inch) sub rolls
• 1 pound lean ground beef, at least 90% lean
• 1 ¼ cups saltine crackers, crushed
• 1 large egg
• ½ small onion, minced
• ½ cup milk
• 4 Tablespoons ketchup, plus more for topping
• 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• salt and pepper, to taste (about a teaspoon each)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Split rolls in half lengthwise. Place them on a baking sheet and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, crushed crackers, egg, onion, milk, 4 tbsp. ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, garlic powder, and salt and pepper.
3. Top each bun-half with the meat mixture, spreading it out evenly amongst all the buns.
4. Spread additional ketchup on top of the meat mixture (as much or as little as you like).
5. Put in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meat registers 160°F (71°C).
6. Take them out and add shredded cheese on top.
7. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.

Video

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 474 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 38 g |
Protein: 32 g |
Fat: 20 g |
Sodium: 778 mg |
Fiber: 1 g |
Sugar: 7 g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.

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