Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe

Craving a delicious fusion of diner classic and pizza night delight? Look no further than this mouthwatering Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia recipe! Imagine the juiciness of beef, the golden sweetness of caramelized onions, and the tanginess of a savory sauce, all nestled on a chewy focaccia crust. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in solo straight from the skillet.

The inspiration for this delectable creation struck when I found myself with leftover focaccia dough and a hankering for patty melts. The magic that happened in the kitchen that day has become a cherished tradition in my home. The aroma of caramelized onions wafting through the house never fails to put smiles on our faces, making this Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia a staple on our menu year-round.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try. The fluffy yet sturdy focaccia base, the golden blend of cheeses, and the creamy, zesty sauce come together to create a pizza that’s as versatile as it is delicious. So, grab your skillet, preheat the oven, and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia!

Quick Benefits

• Focaccia dough provides a sturdy and fluffy base for holding hearty toppings and cheese.
• Slowly cooking onions in butter and oil results in golden, soft caramelized onions with rich flavor.
• A combination of mozzarella and mild cheddar creates a bubbly golden top that stretches beautifully when sliced.
• The sauce adds creamy, zesty notes, binding the flavors together under and atop the cheesy layers.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe Recipe

• The perfect fusion of classic diner comfort food and homemade pizza, offering the best of both worlds in one delicious dish.
• A golden focaccia crust provides a chewy crunch that complements the juicy beef, caramelized onions, and tangy sauce, creating a symphony of flavors and textures.
• Great for sharing with family and friends or enjoying solo straight from the skillet, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option.
• Leftovers can be stored easily and reheated for up to three days, maintaining the crispness of the crust and flavors of the toppings.
• Customizable recipe allows for ingredient swaps such as plant-based ground or turkey, red onions, or vegan cheese, catering to various dietary preferences and needs.
• The historical background of the classic patty melt-inspired pizza adds a nostalgic touch to the dining experience, connecting with an iconic American food tradition.
• Seasonal variations and topping suggestions offer endless possibilities for adapting the recipe throughout the year, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience.
• Pairing suggestions like crunchy pickles, chopped salad, or homemade tomato soup elevate the meal experience, making it a complete and satisfying dining affair.
• Versatile cooking methods allow for enjoying the dish straight from the skillet or reheating it for a comforting snack, ensuring convenience and flexibility in meal preparation.
• The focaccia dough base provides a sturdy yet fluffy foundation for the hearty toppings and cheese, ensuring a well-balanced and satisfying pizza experience.

Ingredients for Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe

Focaccia Dough

• 1 cup warm water (110–115 °F)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

Toppings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Patty Melt Sauce

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Pro Tips for Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe

Pro Tip 1: When making the focaccia dough for your patty melt pizza, ensure the water temperature is between 110–115 °F to activate the yeast properly. Knead the dough until smooth and let it rise in a warm place for optimal texture and flavor.

Pro Tip 2: For perfectly caramelized onions, cook them slowly in a mixture of butter and olive oil over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to achieve that golden, soft result that adds a sweet and buttery flavor to your pizza.

Pro Tip 3: Experiment with seasonal variations to keep your patty melt pizza exciting year-round. Try fresh tomatoes in spring, roasted mushrooms in fall, or caramelized leeks in winter for unique and cozy flavor combinations that suit the time of year.

How to Make Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe

Step 1: Activate Yeast

Combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Let it sit for approximately 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Prepare Olive Oil Mixture

Combine extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and kosher salt in a bowl. Set aside half of the mixture for later.

Step 3: Make Dough

Pour half of the olive oil mixture into the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms and pulls away from the bowl’s sides.

Step 4: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Caramelize Onions

While the dough is rising, heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook thinly sliced onions, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until soft and golden. Set aside.

Step 6: Brown Ground Beef

In the skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat, then drain excess fat. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Step 7: Prepare Patty Melt Sauce

Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, black pepper, chopped parsley, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 8: Shape and Par-Bake Dough

Preheat oven to 450 °F. Brush a 12-inch cast iron or oven-safe skillet with the reserved olive oil mixture. Press risen dough into the skillet, reaching the edges and create dimples on the surface using your fingers. Bake for 12 minutes until slightly puffed.

Step 9: Assemble Pizza

Take the crust out of the oven. Spread half of the sauce evenly on top. Add seasoned beef and caramelized onions. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the toppings.

Step 10: Final Bake

Place skillet back in the oven and bake for 13–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 11: Finish and Serve

Pour the leftover sauce over the baked pizza, sprinkle with additional chopped parsley, slice, and serve while still warm.

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Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the patty melt pizza focaccia, store any leftovers by wrapping them tightly and placing them in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispness of the crust, simply warm the pizza slices in a toaster oven or skillet before serving. If you want to store the pizza for a longer period, you can freeze individual slices on a flat tray and then wrap them for up to one month.

For variations on the recipe, consider using plant-based ground or turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also experiment with ingredients like red onions for a vibrant twist, vegan cheese for a dairy-free alternative, or sourdough discard for a unique flavor in the focaccia dough. Additionally, feel free to customize the toppings based on the season, such as adding fresh tomatoes in the summer, roasted mushrooms in the fall, or caramelized leeks in the winter.

This patty melt pizza is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed fresh from the skillet or reheated for a delicious snack. Whether shared with family or savored alone, this flavorful combination of juicy beef, golden onions, tangy sauce, and cheesy layers on a fluffy focaccia crust is sure to become a favorite for cozy nights in.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian twist, you can substitute plant-based ground or turkey for the beef in this recipe. Red onions can be used instead of yellow onions to add a vibrant color and slightly different flavor profile. If you prefer a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can be used as a substitute for the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses without compromising on taste.

If you don’t have active dry yeast on hand, you can use instant yeast as a substitute in the focaccia dough. Sourdough discard can also be used to make a beautiful focaccia dough if you have some available. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter dough, you can try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

To add seasonal variations to this dish, you can customize the toppings based on the time of year. In the spring or summer, fresh tomatoes can be added on top after baking. In the fall, roasted mushrooms or sweet peppers can be used instead of onions. For a cozy winter version, caramelized leeks can bring an extra layer of warmth to the dish. These substitutions allow you to tailor the patty melt pizza to suit your preferences and the produce available during different seasons.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try cutting the patty melt pizza focaccia into small squares, skewering each square with a toothpick to create delicious appetizers for a party or gathering. The individual servings make it easy for guests to enjoy the flavors of the patty melt pizza in a convenient and fun way.

Another idea is to serve the patty melt pizza focaccia alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or honey mustard. The combination of the savory pizza flavors with the different dipping options adds an interactive element to the meal and allows everyone to customize their eating experience.

FAQs for Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or plant-based ground meat as a lighter alternative to beef.

Can I freeze the Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia?

Yes, you can freeze the pizza slices on a flat tray, then wrap them for up to one month. When ready to eat, reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain the crisp crust.

What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

You can customize this recipe by using red onions for a vibrant twist, vegan cheese as a dairy-free option, or sourdough discard for a unique flavor in the focaccia dough. Additionally, you can experiment with different toppings like fresh tomatoes in spring, roasted mushrooms in fall, or caramelized leeks in winter.

What type of skillet or pan should I use for this recipe?

Any oven-safe skillet or baking pan will work for this recipe. Just make sure to oil it well to ensure easy release and crispy edges for the focaccia crust.

Conclusion

As you take your first bite of this mouthwatering Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia, may you savor the delicious blend of flavors and textures that make this dish so special. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the skillet or reheated as a comforting snack, this recipe is bound to bring joy and satisfaction to your table.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia recipe and make it your own by trying different variations and seasonal toppings. Embrace the versatility of this dish and let it be a canvas for your culinary imagination. From fresh summer tomatoes to cozy winter leeks, there are endless possibilities to explore.

So gather your loved ones, set the table with a side of crunchy pickles or a warm bowl of tomato soup, and indulge in the comforting goodness of Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia. Let this unique fusion of flavors and traditions become a cherished favorite for cozy nights in and memorable gatherings with family and friends.

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Cheesy Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food mashup with our Patty Melt Pizza Focaccia, marrying the essence of a patty melt with a chewy, golden focaccia crust.

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Prep Time35 min

Cook Time45 min

Total Time80 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (One 12-inch pizza, sliced into 8 pieces)

Ingredients

Focaccia Dough

• 1 cup warm water (110–115 °F)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast

Toppings

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Cheese

• 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Patty Melt Sauce

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons freshly chopped parsley, plus extra for garnish
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: Combine warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Let it sit for approximately 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Prepare Olive Oil Mixture: Combine extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, and kosher salt in a bowl. Set aside half of the mixture for later.
3. Make Dough: Pour half of the olive oil mixture into the yeast mixture. Gradually incorporate all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms and pulls away from the bowl’s sides.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and allow it to rise in a warm spot for approximately 1 hour until it doubles in size.
5. Caramelize Onions: While the dough is rising, heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook thinly sliced onions, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until soft and golden. Set aside.
6. Brown Ground Beef: In the skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat, then drain excess fat. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
7. Prepare Patty Melt Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, lemon juice, black pepper, chopped parsley, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.
8. Shape and Par-Bake Dough: Preheat oven to 450 °F. Brush a 12-inch cast iron or oven-safe skillet with the reserved olive oil mixture. Press risen dough into the skillet, reaching the edges and create dimples on the surface using your fingers. Bake for 12 minutes until slightly puffed.
9. Assemble Pizza: Take the crust out of the oven. Spread half of the sauce evenly on top. Add seasoned beef and caramelized onions. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the toppings.
10. Final Bake: Place skillet back in the oven and bake for 13–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
11. Finish and Serve: Pour the leftover sauce over the baked pizza, sprinkle with additional chopped parsley, slice, and serve while still warm.