This Cheddar McMelt Recipe brings back one of Brazil’s most beloved McDonald’s burgers, complete with juicy beef patties, sweet caramelized onions, and that gloriously messy cheddar sauce everyone remembers.
Growing up, fast food wasn’t a big part of life. In fact, whenever we ate out, it was usually somewhere with proper plates and table service. And honestly, I still don’t crave fast food very often.
But life with work, kids, and busy evenings means that every now and then, we end up at McDonald’s. And almost every time, I find myself thinking the same thing: “I wish I could have a McMelt.”
Which is funny, because of all the foods I miss from Brazil, a fast-food burger was never one I expected to make the list. And yet, here we are.
Maybe it’s because every Brazilian kid had that one McDonald’s order they never forgot. For me, it was always the Cheddar McMelt. The juicy burgers, the sweet onions, and that gloriously messy cheddar sauce that somehow ended up everywhere.
So after years of wishing and one too many cravings, I decided to stop waiting and make my own. I can honestly say this homemade Cheddar McMelt tastes exactly the way I remember it.
If you grew up in Brazil, I have a feeling this recipe will bring back a few memories. And if you’ve never had the famous Cheddar McMelt before, you’re about to discover why Brazilians have been obsessed with this burger for decades.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes just like the famous McDonald’s favorite.
- Made with simple ingredients.
- Rich, creamy cheddar sauce and sweet onions.
- Perfect for burger night.
- Ready in under an hour.
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Ground Beef
I recommend using ground beef with a little fat (80/20 if possible) for juicy, flavorful burgers. Avoid extra-lean beef, which can dry out quickly.
Hamburger Buns
Soft hamburger buns are traditional for a Cheddar McMelt. Brioche buns work well too, although they’re slightly sweeter than the original.
Onions
Sweet onions or yellow onions both work beautifully. Cooking them low and slow gives them that signature sweet, jammy flavor that makes the McMelt so memorable.
Butter and Olive Oil
A combination of butter and olive oil helps the onions caramelize evenly while adding extra flavor.
Soy Sauce
A small amount of soy sauce adds depth and enhances the savory flavor of the onions. It doesn’t make them taste Asian—it simply gives them a richer taste.
Processed Cheddar Cheese Slices
This is one ingredient I don’t recommend substituting. Processed cheddar slices melt smoothly and create the creamy, nostalgic cheese sauce that closely resembles the original McDonald’s version. Fancy cheese isn’t better here!
Whipping Cream and Milk
These help turn the cheese slices into a silky, pourable sauce. Half-and-half can be used in place of the heavy cream if needed.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings are all you need for the burgers. The caramelized onions and cheddar sauce provide plenty of flavor.
How to Make Cheddar McMelt
- Caramelize the onions. Cook them low and slow until they’re soft, sweet, and beautifully golden.
- Prepare the cheddar sauce. Melt the cheese with the cream and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Cook the burger patties. Season the beef and cook until nicely browned and juicy.
- Toast the buns. A quick toast helps add texture and keeps the buns from getting soggy.
- Assemble and enjoy. Top the burgers with the caramelized onions and plenty of warm cheddar sauce for the ultimate homemade McMelt.
Tips for the Best Cheddar McMelt
- Use 80/20 ground beef for juicy, flavorful burgers. Leaner beef tends to dry out.
- Don’t overwork the meat when shaping the patties. Gently forming them helps keep the burgers tender.
- Take your time with the onions. Cooking them low and slow brings out their natural sweetness and gives the burger its signature flavor.
- Stick with processed cheddar slices. They melt much more smoothly than shredded cheese and are the key to recreating the authentic McMelt sauce.
- Keep the cheese sauce warm until serving. If it starts to thicken, simply reheat it gently in the same saucepan over low heat or microwave it in short intervals, stirring well after each, until smooth and creamy again. A splash of milk can help loosen the sauce if needed.
Variations
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheddar sauce.
- Make It a Double: For a heartier burger, use two patties instead of one. More beef means even more of that classic McMelt flavor.
- Turn Up the Heat: Stir a dash of hot sauce into the cheddar sauce or add sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Add Pickles: While not traditional, dill pickle chips add a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the cheese sauce and caramelized onions.
What to Serve with Cheddar McMelt
- French fries
- Onion rings
- Potato wedges
- Coleslaw
- Milkshakes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cheddar McMelt?
The Cheddar McMelt is a burger made famous by McDonald’s, featuring beef patties, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, and caramelized onions on a toasted bun. It became especially popular in Brazil.
Is this the original McDonald’s recipe?
No. This is a homemade copycat recipe inspired by the beloved burger.
Can I make the cheddar sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Can I freeze the burger patties?
Absolutely. Freeze uncooked patties for up to three months.
Storage
Store leftover patties, onions, and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Did You Make This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and a star rating, and don’t forget to share your creations and tag Tasty Recollections on social media.
Cheddar McMelt Recipe (McDonald’s Copycat)
Equipment
- large skillet
- Small Saucepan
- cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 3 onions thinly sliced or finely chopped
- 1½ teaspoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Cheddar Sauce
- 12 slices processed cheddar cheese
- 100 ml heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground beef 80% lean, 20% fat
- salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
Caramelize the onions.
- Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to turn golden. Sprinkle in the sugar and continue cooking until the onions are deeply caramelized. Stir in the soy sauce during the last few minutes of cooking and set aside.3 onions, 1½ teaspoons sugar, 2 teaspoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oil, 1 tablespoon butter
Make the cheddar sauce
- Combine the cheddar cheese slices, heavy cream, and milk in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until melted and smooth. Keep warm until ready to serve.12 slices processed cheddar cheese, 100 ml heavy cream, 2 tablespoons milk
Cook the burgers.
- Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and gently shape into patties. Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.1 pound ground beef, salt and black pepper
Toast the buns.
- Brush the cut sides of the buns with butter before toasting them in a skillet.4 hamburger buns
Assemble the burgers.
- Place the patties on the buns, top with a generous amount of caramelized onions, and finish with the warm cheddar sauce. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use processed cheddar slices for the smoothest, most authentic cheese sauce.
- If the sauce thickens, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
- Cook the onions low and slow for the best flavor. Don’t overwork the meat when shaping the patties to keep them tender.
- For an extra smoky flavor, feel free to cook the burger patties on the grill instead of in a skillet.
- Simply prepare the onions and cheddar sauce on the stovetop as directed, then grill the patties until cooked to your liking before assembling the burgers. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a Cheddar McMelt during barbecue season!
- Please note calories provided are only an estimate.
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