Chicken Fried Steak Patty Melt

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Tender minute steak is coated in flour and milk, then fried until golden. Caramelized onions and cheddar cheese add savoriness, while buttery Texas toast gives a crunchy finish. The fried steak is nestled on toasted bread, layered with onions and cheese, then grilled to create a rich, comforting sandwich bursting with texture. This hearty Southern favorite combines crisp, juicy steak, creamy cheese, and sweet onions for true comfort in every bite. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it’s a filling, satisfying meal that pleases any crowd.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Wed, 25 Jun 2025 14:22:29 GMT
A chicken fried steak patty melt with cheese and onions. Save
A chicken fried steak patty melt with cheese and onions. | lilicooks.com

Chicken fried steak patty melts turn an old-school Southern favorite into a crave-worthy sandwich experience by pairing golden fried steak with buttery Texas toast and melt-in-your-mouth onions. I make these when nostalgia hits or when I want a hearty meal for family movie night. Every bite feels like diner comfort food at its best.

I was first inspired to make this after a road trip through Texas and now it is a request whenever friends visit. My kids always lick their plates clean when this is served for dinner.

Ingredients

  • Minute steak or cube steak: look for well-marbled pieces for the most tenderness
  • Self-rising flour: adds light crunch to the crust and keeps things easy
  • Whole milk or buttermilk: brings richness and helps the flour stick
  • Salt and black pepper: a simple way to boost flavor from the start
  • Canola oil: works well because of its high smoke point and neutral taste
  • Texas toast: thick cut for extra crunch and ability to hold fillings without falling apart
  • Cheddar cheese: sharp or mild varieties both work and melt beautifully
  • White onion: sliced thinly and slowly caramelized for sweetness
  • Butter: always use real unsalted butter for griddling the sandwiches

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Onions:
Slice white onions thin and place in a skillet over medium-low heat with a pat of butter Cook very slowly stirring every few minutes until onions are soft jammy and deep golden This can take 20 minutes and is the magic for rich flavor
Bread and Fry the Steaks:
Pour milk into a flat dish and self-rising flour into another Dip each minute steak first in milk then in flour pressing lightly to coat thoroughly Set on a plate until all steaks are covered
Fry the Steaks:
Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high When it shimmers add breaded steaks Careful not to crowd the pan Cook two minutes per side until deeply golden crust forms Transfer to a wire rack to stay crispy
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Butter one side of each Texas toast slice Lay bread butter side out Top with a fried steak then a big handful of caramelized onions and a slice of cheddar Top with another bread slice butter side out
Cook the Patty Melts:
Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium Cook sandwiches in batches pressing gently until bread is golden and cheese melts Flip and repeat until both sides have a crisp buttery crust Rest a minute then slice and serve
A stack of chicken fried steak patties. Save
A stack of chicken fried steak patties. | lilicooks.com

The highlight for me is always those caramelized onions They take patience but transform the sandwich completely I remember my grandma showing me how slow and low was the secret her kitchen always smelled amazing during those times

Storage Tips

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh but can be prepped ahead Simply wrap any leftover sandwich halves tightly in foil and refrigerate To reheat warm in a skillet over low with a cover to restore the crust and melt the cheese

Ingredient Substitutions

No Texas toast Try a hearty sourdough or any thick cut white bread Different cheeses like Monterey Jack or provolone are excellent swaps And if you like a bit of heat sneak in a slice of pepper jack

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crunchy pickles crispy potato chips or even a little gravy on the side If you want some green pair with a simple chopped salad Trust me this sandwich makes a fantastic brunch offering too

A chicken fried steak patty melt on a wooden table. Save
A chicken fried steak patty melt on a wooden table. | lilicooks.com

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken fried steak comes from German and Austrian immigrants who brought schnitzel recipes to the American South The patty melt celebrates classic diner sandwiches by layering that same country fried goodness with gooey cheese and bread My family feels a sense of tradition whenever I make these just like countless home cooks before me

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of meat works best for this patty melt?

Minute or cube steak is preferred for its tenderness and quick cooking. Thin cuts ensure even frying and easy layering.

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Texas toast is classic for its thickness and texture, but any sturdy white bread or sourdough is a good substitute.

→ How do I achieve crispy, evenly fried steak?

Make sure oil is hot before frying and avoid crowding the skillet. Flip only once for uniform browning.

→ Are caramelized onions essential for flavor?

Absolutely! Slow cooking onions brings out sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory steak and cheddar.

→ What type of cheese complements the sandwich best?

Cheddar offers sharp, creamy flavor, but Swiss or Provolone can be used for mildness or nutty notes.

→ Can the sandwich be prepared ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed immediately, though components can be cooked in advance and assembled fresh for best texture.

Chicken Fried Steak Patty Melt

Crispy steak, onions, and cheddar layered between Texas toast create a truly flavorful comfort classic.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
15 min
Overall Time
25 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American/Southern

Output: 4 Serves (4 sandwiches)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Steak

01 4 medium minute steaks
02 1 cup self-rising flour
03 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk
04 ⅛ teaspoon salt
05 ⅛ teaspoon pepper
06 ¼ cup canola oil

→ Sandwich

07 8 slices Texas toast
08 4 slices cheddar cheese
09 2 medium white onions, sliced and caramelized
10 4 to 6 tablespoons butter

Steps

Step 01

Heat a skillet on medium-high heat and add canola oil.

Step 02

Dip the steak in milk, then flour, and place it in the hot oil to cook.

Step 03

Cook the steak for 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown, then remove from the skillet and drain on a wire rack.

Step 04

Butter one side of each slice of Texas toast.

Step 05

Layer the steak, caramelized onions, and cheddar cheese between slices of Texas toast.

Step 06

Grill the sandwich in a separate skillet on each side until golden brown.

Tips

  1. Ensure the skillet is heated adequately before frying the steak to achieve a crispy coating.
  2. For caramelized onions, cook them over low heat until golden and softened.

Required Tools

  • Large skillet
  • Wire rack
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy from milk, butter, and cheese.
  • Contains gluten from Texas toast and self-rising flour.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 1063
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~