Description
Cheesy Beef and Corn Melt
Ingredients:
4 slices brioche bread
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 cup roasted corn
1/4 cup crispy bacon bits
1 cup Gouda cheese
2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
Cook ground beef and mix with roasted corn and bacon bits.
Butter one side of each brioche slice.
Add beef mixture and Gouda cheese to the unbuttered side, top with another slice.
Grill on medium heat until golden and cheese is melty.
#BaconBeefMelt
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect melt. First, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, then drain any excess fat. Add the roasted corn and crispy bacon bits to the beef, stirring to combine. Set this mixture aside. Next, take your four slices of brioche bread. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice. On the unbuttered side of two slices, pile the beef, corn, and bacon mixture. Generously top the mixture with shredded Gouda cheese. Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing out. Finally, preheat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty sandwich is a meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light, acidic side to cut through the richness. Serve it with a simple dill pickle spear, a tangy coleslaw, or a handful of kettle-cooked potato chips. For a more complete meal, a side tomato soup or a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is an excellent choice.
How-to Summary
In short: Brown beef, mix with corn and bacon. Butter brioche slices. Assemble sandwiches with the mixture and cheese. Grill until golden and melty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. While Gouda provides a superb melt and smoky flavor, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese are great alternatives.
What if I don’t have roasted corn? You can use canned corn (drained) or frozen corn kernels. For best flavor, sauté them in the beef drippings for a minute before mixing.
How can I make this recipe leaner? Opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef and turkey bacon. You can also reduce the cheese amount slightly and use a light butter spread.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time? Yes, the beef, corn, and bacon mixture can be cooked, cooled, and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat slightly before assembling.
What’s the best way to get a crispy exterior without burning? Ensure your skillet is at a consistent medium heat, not too high. The butter on the bread should sizzle gently when added. Using a lid for part of the cooking can help melt the cheese fully before the bread over-browns.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the sandwich, which can cause the filling to spill out and make flipping difficult. Do not use high heat, as this will burn the buttered bread before the cheese has a chance to melt. Ensure your ground beef is thoroughly drained of fat to prevent a greasy sandwich. Finally, don’t skip pressing the sandwich gently with a spatula while grilling—this ensures even browning and helps the ingredients fuse together.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Beef and Corn Melt is the ultimate comfort food, combining savory beef, smoky bacon, sweet corn, and creamy Gouda in a crispy brioche package. It’s surprisingly simple to master with the right technique. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality gourmet sandwich right in your own kitchen. Perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
