Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Toast: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic. Spread the garlic butter evenly on one side of each slice of Texas toast.
- Toast the Bread: Place the garlic toast slices, butter-side up, on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can toast the bread under the broiler, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Cook the Ground Beef: While the toast is baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce over the cooked ground beef and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the BBQ Cheeseburgers: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or aioli on the toasted side of each slice of garlic toast. This will add moisture and richness to the sandwich.
- Top with Beef and Cheese: Divide the BBQ ground beef mixture evenly among the garlic toast slices, spreading it to cover the surface.
- Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the ground beef on each slice.
- Melt the Cheese (Continued): Place the baking sheet with the open-faced sandwiches back in the oven or under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the BBQ Cheeseburgers on Garlic Toast from the oven. Sprinkle with crispy fried onions, diced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture for a little heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, provolone, or even a smoky gouda.
- BBQ Sauce Options: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Sweet, tangy, or spicy – the choice is yours.
- Add a Slaw: Top the BBQ Cheeseburger on Garlic Toast with a creamy coleslaw for added flavor and texture. A vinegar-based slaw would also work well to cut through the richness.
- Bun Alternatives: While this recipe calls for Texas toast, you can also use other types of sturdy bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to hold the toppings.
- Garlic Lover’s Delight: For an extra garlicky kick, add more minced garlic to the butter mixture or sprinkle garlic powder on the toast before baking.
- Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey or plant-based ground meat can be substituted for ground beef. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon bits would be a delicious addition to this recipe. Sprinkle them on top along with the fried onions.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the BBQ Cheeseburger on Garlic Toast with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or french fries for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Onion Rings: Instead of crispy fried onions, top with a couple of onion rings for a different texture and flavor.
- Pickled Goodness: Add some sliced pickles (dill or sweet) for a tangy contrast.
- Jalapeno Kick: Add sliced pickled jalapenos for some spice.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Leftover BBQ Cheeseburger on Garlic Toast is best stored in the refrigerator. Separate the toast from the meat mixture to prevent the toast from becoming soggy. Store the toast in an airtight container and the meat mixture in a separate airtight container. It’s best to consume leftovers within 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the garlic toast slices on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Reheat the BBQ ground beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Once both components are heated, assemble the sandwich as directed in the recipe, adding fresh cheese and toppings. You can also reheat the assembled sandwich in the oven or under the broiler, but watch it closely to prevent burning. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make the toast soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the garlic toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic toast ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the BBQ Cheeseburger.
Can I freeze the BBQ ground beef mixture?
Yes, the BBQ ground beef mixture can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if I don’t have Texas toast?
If you don’t have Texas toast, you can use any thick-cut bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the toppings. You may need to adjust the toasting time depending on the type of bread you use.
Can I use pre-made crispy fried onions?
Yes, using pre-made crispy fried onions is a great time-saver. They are readily available in most grocery stores. Just make sure to add them just before serving to maintain their crispness.