This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of BUBBA burger. All opinions are 100% mine.

The Ultimate Southwestern Patty Melt: A Flavor Explosion with BUBBA Burger

Imagine a perfectly seared, juicy burger, layered with smoky, spicy chipotle mayonnaise, crisp jalapeño bacon, creamy slices of fresh avocado, and gooey melted pepper jack cheese. Now, envision all of this deliciousness hugged between two slices of golden, buttery garlic Texas toast. That, my friends, is the culinary masterpiece we’re diving into today: the Southwestern Patty Melt. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a symphony of textures and bold flavors designed to ignite your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Why This Southwestern Patty Melt Will Become Your New Favorite

In our household, burgers are more than just food; they’re a canvas for culinary creativity and a cherished family tradition. We love experimenting with different toppings, sauces, and breads to craft what we proudly declare “the ultimate burger.” This particular Southwestern Patty Melt recipe holds a special place, thanks to my husband’s ingenious combination of his favorite flavors: a fiery kick, the irresistible crunch of bacon, and the savory comfort of garlic bread. The result is a burger that truly has it all – it’s juicy, garlicky, subtly spicy, and utterly melt-in-your-mouth delicious, a perfect blend of Southwestern zest and classic comfort food.

Just one look at this perfectly constructed burger, with its vibrant colors and tantalizing layers, and you’ll understand the appeal. The golden-brown garlic bread acts as the perfect vehicle, holding together the robust BUBBA burger patty, the vibrant green of avocado, the crispness of bacon, and the luscious melted cheese. It’s a feast for the eyes before it even touches your lips, promising a taste adventure with every single bite. Don’t you just want to sink your teeth right into it?

The Secret to a Simply Delicious & Convenient Burger: BUBBA Burger

Finding the perfect patty is foundational to any great burger, and for this Southwestern Patty Melt, we’ve found our go-to: BUBBA burger. We recently discovered BUBBA burger at our local grocery store, and honestly, there’s no turning back. They represent a blend of quality and convenience that is hard to beat, making them a cornerstone for any quick and flavorful meal.

• Uncompromising Quality and Clean Ingredients: BUBBA burgers are crafted with high-quality, clean ingredients you can trust. Their original Angus Beef burgers, for instance, famously boast just one ingredient: choice chuck beef. This commitment to purity means you’re getting a wholesome, flavorful foundation for your meal without any artificial additives or fillers. It’s a taste of homemade quality, every time.
• High Protein for Satisfying Meals: Each patty is packed with high-quality protein, ensuring a satisfying and hearty meal that keeps you feeling full and energized. This makes BUBBA burgers an excellent choice for active families or anyone looking for a substantial meal.
• Incredible Variety to Suit Every Palate: BUBBA burger offers a wide range of options to suit every preference and dietary need. Whether you’re a fan of classic beef, prefer the leaner profile of turkey, or are exploring delicious plant-based alternatives, BUBBA burger has you covered. Their diverse selection ensures there’s a perfect patty for every recipe and every family member.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: For those with gluten sensitivities or preferences, BUBBA burgers are a fantastic choice, as many of their varieties are naturally gluten-free. This expands culinary possibilities and allows more people to enjoy a delicious burger experience.
• Unbeatable Convenience: Ready in Minutes: Perhaps one of the most game-changing features is their unparalleled ease of preparation. You can cook BUBBA burgers straight from frozen, taking them from freezer to a hot, ready-to-eat meal in approximately 10 minutes. This makes them an ideal solution for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or whenever you crave a delicious, fuss-free meal. No thawing required means less planning and more time enjoying!

The consistent quality, incredible convenience, and versatility of BUBBA burger truly make them a staple in our kitchen, elevating every burger creation, especially this Southwestern Patty Melt, to a new level of ease and deliciousness.

Crafting Your Signature Southwestern Patty Melt: Ingredients & Detailed Steps

Essential Grocery List

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s what you’ll need to create six mouth-watering Southwestern Patty Melts, perfectly balanced in flavor and texture:

• BUBBA Burger: 1 box (32oz) BUBBA Angus Beef burgers (contains 6 patties). Feel free to substitute with BUBBA turkey burgers or plant-based varieties for a different twist.
• Cheese: Pepper Jack cheese slices (6 slices, one per burger). Its mild heat and excellent melting quality are key.
• Bacon: Jalapeño bacon (approximately 12-18 slices, depending on preferred thickness and crispiness). This adds a spicy, smoky crunch.
• Fresh Produce: 1 large, ripe avocado, thinly sliced. Essential for creamy balance.
• Bread: 12 pieces Texas toast. The thick cut holds up wonderfully to the juicy fillings and garlic butter.
• For Garlic Bread: 1/2 cup salted butter, softened; 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley.
• For Spicy Mayo: 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tablespoon chili powder.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Patty Melt

Follow these simple, clear steps to assemble your incredible Southwestern Patty Melt. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, ensuring a delicious and satisfying result every time, even for novice cooks.

Preparation Phase: Getting Ready for Assembly

For the Golden Garlic Texas Toast

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures even baking for your garlic bread.
2. Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small, microwave-safe bowl, combine ½ cup softened salted butter, ½ tablespoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon dried parsley. Mix thoroughly until the garlic powder and parsley are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
3. Butter the Toast: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture onto one side of each of your 12 pieces of Texas toast, ensuring the entire surface is covered.
4. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the buttered Texas toast slices in a single layer onto a large cookie sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the bread turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges become delightfully crispy. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and set aside; these will be the foundation of your patty melts.

For the Zesty Chipotle Mayonnaise

1. Combine Ingredients: In another small bowl, combine 1 cup of mayonnaise and ½ tablespoon of chili powder.
2. Mix Well: Stir thoroughly until the chili powder is fully incorporated and the mayonnaise takes on a uniform, inviting color. For a smokier, spicier kick, you can experiment with adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder. Taste and adjust spice level as desired.
3. Set Aside: Cover the bowl and set aside, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the remaining components.

For the Crispy Jalapeño Bacon

1. Preheat Oven (Again): If your oven has cooled, preheat it back to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange Bacon: Arrange the jalapeño bacon slices onto a broiler pan or a wire cooling rack placed over a rimmed cookie sheet. Lightly spray the rack with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This setup allows excess fat to drip away, ensuring consistently crispy bacon.
3. Bake Until Crisp: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. Baking time can vary based on bacon thickness and oven calibration, so keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent over-crisping.
4. Drain: Once cooked, carefully transfer the crispy bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any remaining excess grease.

For the Juicy BUBBA Burgers

1. Heat Grill/Skillet: Heat your grill or a large skillet to medium-high heat. It’s crucial that the cooking surface is sufficiently hot before placing the burgers to achieve a good sear.
2. Cook from Frozen: Place the frozen BUBBA burger patties directly onto the preheated grill or skillet. There’s no need to thaw them, which is a fantastic time-saver!
3. First Side Cook: Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes on the first side. You’ll notice natural juices beginning to rise to the top of the patty, which is your visual cue that it’s time to flip.
4. Second Side Cook: Flip the burgers and continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes on the second side.
5. Melt the Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of each burger patty. Cover briefly with a lid (if using a skillet) or close the grill to help the cheese melt beautifully and envelop the burger.
6. Check Doneness: Ensure the burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Assembly Phase: Bringing It All Together

1. Prepare Toast: Take two pieces of your freshly baked garlic Texas toast for each patty melt.
2. Spread Mayo: Generously spread the prepared chipotle mayonnaise onto the top side of both pieces of toast. This ensures every bite has that essential spicy and creamy element.
3. Layer the Burger: Place one cooked BUBBA burger patty, still warm and topped with its melted pepper jack cheese, onto one slice of the prepared garlic toast.
4. Add Bacon & Avocado: Layer several slices of crispy jalapeño bacon on top of the burger, followed by several thin, fanned slices of fresh avocado.
5. Complete the Melt: Carefully place the second piece of garlic Texas toast, mayonnaise-side down, on top to complete your patty melt. Gently press down to secure all the layers.
6. Serve Immediately: Slice in half, if desired, and serve immediately to best enjoy the warm, melty, and crispy textures. Prepare to be delighted!

Recipe Variations, Tips, and Expert Advice

Elevate your Southwestern Patty Melt experience with these creative twists and practical tips, ensuring every batch is a resounding success:

• Open-Faced Option: For a slightly lighter take or if you prefer less bread, serve these Southwestern Patty Melts open-faced. Simply use one slice of garlic Texas toast as the base, piled high with all the delicious toppings. It’s still incredibly flavorful!
• Zingy Mayonnaise: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to your chipotle mayonnaise. The bright, acidic citrus note will cut through the richness of the burger and cheese, adding an extra layer of flavor complexity and freshness.
• Leaner Protein Choice: Experiment with BUBBA turkey burgers instead of beef. They offer a fantastic, flavorful alternative while still delivering a satisfying and protein-rich meal. Adjust cooking times slightly as turkey burgers may cook faster.
• Alternative Cheese Choices: While pepper jack adds a perfect spicy creaminess, feel free to try other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder profile, sharp cheddar for a bolder taste, or even a smoked gouda for a unique smoky depth.
• Add Caramelized Onions: A classic patty melt often features sweet, savory caramelized onions. While not in the original recipe, slowly sautéed onions until deeply golden would add a wonderful sweetness and depth that complements the savory and spicy elements beautifully.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chili powder in the mayonnaise or opt for regular bacon instead of jalapeño bacon. For those who love extra heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mayo or a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño to your burger.
• Selecting Ripe Avocado: Ensure your avocado is perfectly ripe – it should yield slightly to gentle pressure when gently squeezed. A ripe avocado will be creamy and smooth, adding the ideal cool and rich texture to your patty melt.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking burgers or bacon, ensure you don’t overcrowd your grill or skillet. This allows for even cooking and proper browning, leading to better flavor and texture. Cook in batches if necessary.

Common Questions About Your Southwestern Patty Melt

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you master this recipe and troubleshoot any potential queries:

• Can I make the garlic bread ahead of time?
  • Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic bread up to a day in advance. Once baked and cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. For best results, gently reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before assembling your patty melts to restore its crispness and warmth. This garlic bread recipe is versatile enough for any meal!
• What if I don’t have Texas toast?
  • While Texas toast is ideal due to its thickness and ability to hold up to the juicy fillings, you can substitute it with other thick-cut bread like brioche, sourdough, or even a good quality artisanal white bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to contain all the delicious fillings without becoming soggy or falling apart.
• How do I store leftovers?
  • It’s best to assemble and enjoy patty melts fresh, as the garlic bread can become soft over time. If you have leftover cooked burger patties, bacon, or garlic bread, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat the components individually (burger in a skillet, bacon in the oven, bread in the toaster oven) and assemble just before serving for the best experience.
• Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
  • Yes, you absolutely can for a more pungent and fresh garlic flavor! Mince 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic very finely and combine them with the softened butter and parsley. Be mindful that fresh garlic can brown faster than garlic powder, so keep a closer eye on your toast in the oven to prevent it from burning.
• Can I make this recipe less spicy?
  • Certainly! To reduce the heat, simply use less chili powder in your mayonnaise. You can also opt for regular bacon instead of jalapeño bacon. If pepper jack cheese is too spicy, Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese are excellent mild alternatives.

Perfect Serving Suggestions for Your Patty Melt

While these Southwestern Patty Melts are incredibly satisfying and a meal in themselves, pairing them with the right side dish can complete the culinary experience. We often serve them with a classic side of crispy French fries, but don’t limit yourself! Here are some fantastic ideas:

• Classic Comfort Sides: Tater tots, golden onion rings, or even sweet potato fries are fantastic alternatives to regular fries, adding another layer of comforting crunch and flavor.
• Fresh & Light Options: A simple green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette, or a refreshing fresh fruit salad, can provide a wonderful contrast to the richness of the patty melt, balancing the meal beautifully.
• Southwestern Inspired Sides: Lean into the Southwestern theme with sides like grilled corn on the cob (perhaps rubbed with chili lime butter), a vibrant black bean and corn salsa, or even a creamy coleslaw with a hint of lime and cilantro.
• Potato Salad or Pasta Salad: For a heartier side, a creamy potato salad or a light pasta salad can complement the patty melt without overpowering it.

Southwestern Patty Melt Recipe Card

Southwestern Patty Melt

A juicy Southwestern Patty Melt made with a BUBBA burger, nestled between garlic Texas toast, spread with a spicy chipotle mayonnaise, and layered with crispy jalapeño bacon, creamy avocado, and perfectly melted pepper jack cheese. This burger delivers an unforgettable kick and a symphony of flavors!

• Yield: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Garlic Bread

• 12 pieces Texas Toast
• 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
• 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Spicy Mayo

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tablespoon chili powder

For the Burgers

• 6 BUBBA burger Angus Beef burgers (32oz box)
• 6 slices Pepper Jack cheese
• Jalapeño bacon (approx. 12-18 slices)
• 1 large avocado, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare Garlic Toast: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, combine butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Spread garlic butter onto Texas toast and place onto a cookie sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside.
2. Make Spicy Mayo: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and chili powder. Stir well and set aside.
3. Cook Bacon: Preheat oven at 400°F (200°C). Arrange bacon on a broiler pan or a wire rack over a rimmed cookie sheet (spray rack with cooking spray). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. Cook Burgers: Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high. Place frozen BUBBA burgers directly on the hot surface. Cook for 4-6 minutes until juices rise. Flip and cook another 4-6 minutes. During the last minute, top each burger with a slice of pepper jack cheese and let melt. Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Assemble Patty Melts: Spread chipotle mayonnaise onto the top side of 2 pieces of garlic Texas toast. Place a cheesy burger on one slice, then layer with jalapeño bacon and sliced avocado. Top with the second slice of garlic toast, mayo-side down. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values based on the original recipe. Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients and brands used.)

• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 patty melt
• Calories: 1488
• Total Fat: 100g
• Saturated Fat: 34g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 59g
• Cholesterol: 232mg
• Sodium: 1879mg
• Carbohydrates: 90g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 57g

All information and tools presented and written within this site are intended for informational purposes only. I am not a certified nutritionist and any nutritional information on strawberryblondiekitchen.com should only be used as a general guideline. Consult with a qualified health professional for personalized dietary advice.

Recommended Products for Your Grill Master Setup

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting my kitchen adventures and helping me bring you more delicious recipes!

• Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
• Weber Rapid Fire Chimney Starter
• BBQ Grill Tool Set – 16 Piece Stainless Steel Barbecue Grilling Accessories with Aluminum Case

These burgers truly have it all: the savory depth of beef, the smoky kick of jalapeño bacon, the creamy richness of avocado and pepper jack, all perfectly complemented by spicy chipotle mayo and crispy garlic bread. They’re juicy, garlicky, wonderfully spicy, and utterly melt-in-your-mouth delicious, promising a satisfying and memorable meal every time.

Find more BUBBA burger recipe inspiration here!

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