Roasted Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps

I love roasted cauliflower and chickpeas together. My roasted cauliflower chickpea tacos are a blog favorite and this roasted cauliflower chickpea salad is so flavorful. I also love making these Roasted Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps. The wraps have bold f…

I love roasted cauliflower and chickpeas together. My roasted cauliflower chickpea tacos are a blog favorite and this roasted cauliflower chickpea salad is so flavorful. I also love making these Roasted Cauliflower Chickpea Wraps. The wraps have bold flavors, textures, and are super satisfying. The cauliflower and chickpeas are tossed in harissa paste to bring…

Beer Braised Beef Melt

The Beer-Braised Beef Melt is epic!

If you’re craving something good and hearty on a crisp autumn day, the ultimate Beer-Braised Beef Melt is ready for…

The post Beer Braised Beef Melt appeared first on Over The Fire Cooking.

The Beer-Braised Beef Melt is epic!

If you’re craving something good and hearty on a crisp autumn day, the ultimate Beer-Braised Beef Melt is ready for it. There are few things in life more comforting than a homemade patty melt. In this easy recipe, the traditional juicy beef patty gets swapped with shredded braised beef, taking the whole idea to another level. If you’re stoked to try some tender meat, melted cheese, grilled onions, and jalapenos between toasty bread slices, keep scrolling!

Beer-Braised Beef Melt is sliced in half and served with the braising sauce.
Post sponsored by Samuel Adams

If you’ve been a fan of my birria grilled cheese, you’re gonna love these simple patty melts. Think of them as the birria’s American cousins, celebrating the good news that it’s finally Sam Adams’ Octoberfest season. This Marzen-style beer doesn’t just go great with a meal—it’s a game-changer in the cooking process, adding a warm heartiness to our braising liquid.

Why You’ll Love the Beef Melt Sandwich

This beer-braised beef melt is everything you want in a classic patty melt recipe and more—melt-in-your-mouth beef, gooey cheese, and just the right amount of savory flavor and spice. Beef short ribs are perfectly braised in a Dutch oven with some seriously aromatic flavors. Plus, with Sam Adams Octoberfest in the mix, this dish brings a depth of flavor that’s perfect for fall grilling. 

what’s so special about Samuel Adams Octoberfest?

Samuel Adams Octoberfest is the ultimate fall brew that’s been winning hearts since 1989. This beer is all about those rich, malty vibes, packed with notes of caramel and toffee that just scream autumn. It’s got that deep amber hue and a perfect balance of sweetness with a touch of hop bitterness, making it the ideal drink when you’re looking to cozy up as the temps drop and you’re digging into some hearty seasonal meals.

If you love a good patty melt, you may want to check out The Best Patty Melt Recipes next. Or, if this recipe gets you hooked on short ribs, you may also want to wander over to these recipes: Braised Beef Short Ribs, Grilled Beef Short Ribs, Tomahawk Beef Short Ribs, Rotisserie Smoked Short Ribs, and Grilled Korean BBQ Short Ribs. Undoubtedly, short ribs are high on my list of favorite things to enjoy in life!

The short ribs are seasoned before grilling.

Beer Braised Beef Melt Ingredients Roundup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this incredible toasted sandwich with the tastiest ingredients.

  • Beef: Grab 6-8 beef short ribs. You’ll also need kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to season those ribs before they hit the grill.
  • Braising + Seasonings: For the braising liquid, we’re using Samuel Adams Octoberfest, along with beef broth, black pepper, garlic, sea salt, chipotle puree (for that kick), dried oregano, cinnamon sticks, rosemary and thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. 
  • Grilled Cheese: To build the ultimate sandwich, you’ll need shredded cheddar cheese, some sliced red onions, jalapeños, and, of course, thick-cut pieces of bread—Texas toast or sourdough bread are some great options. 

The cook time to bring all these ingredients together isn’t quick, but the process is simple. Trust me, the results are so freakin’ delicious that you won’t mind the extra effort. 

How to Make the Beef Melt

Grilling & Braising

The best beef patty melt recipe begins by firing up your grill to medium-high heat (around 375 degrees F). Slather your beef short ribs with canola oil, then season them generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Sam Adams October Fest add a hearty flavor to the braising liquid.

Sear those ribs on all sides until they’ve got a nice dark golden brown crust. Once seared, set the ribs aside and place your Dutch oven directly on the grill.

Add a splash of oil to the Dutch oven or large skillet, then toss in some minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 2 minutes should do it. Next, add in your sliced onions and let them brown for another 2 minutes. Now, it’s time to bring in the special sauce: pour in that Samuel Adams Octoberfest, followed by the beef broth, chipotle puree, black pepper, sea salt, dried oregano, cinnamon sticks, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.

The beef is braised in a savory beef stock liquid.

Pop the beef short ribs back into the Dutch oven, making sure they’re almost submerged in the braising liquid. Cover it up and let everything simmer over medium-high heat for about 3.5 to 4.5 hours or until the beef is fork-tender. Don’t forget to skim the fat off the top of the sauce as needed.

Once the beef is tender and falls off the bone well, remove it from the Dutch oven. Discard the bones and then strain the braising liquid until you have a smooth consomme. Shred the beef and then set it aside in a bowl.

The meat is shredded to make the ultimate Beer-Braised Beef Melt.

Beer-braised beef Melt Final Touches

Now, heat up a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat (about 350 degrees F). Add a bit of oil to the skillet, then toss in your sliced red onions and jalapeños. Let them soften up for 3-4 minutes. Transfer onions and peppers to a plate. 

To build your beef patty melt, take a slice of bread and load it up with shredded cheese, shredded beef, grilled red onions, and then some jalapeños. Top it with more cheese and then another slice of bread. On the skillet, toast the first side for about 45-60 seconds and repeat for the other side. The bread should look golden brown, and the cheese should be all gooey and melted. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.

The beef patty melt is assembled and toasted.

Serve up these bad boys with a side of that flavorful beef consomme, topped with chopped red onions and then some cilantro. Dip, bite, enjoy. Cheers to the best patty melt recipe ever!

What to Serve with the Beef Melt

The beer-braised beef patty melt pairs perfectly with crispy French fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries, or even a fresh potato salad. Want something to sip on? Crack open another Sam Adams Octoberfest, or go for a classic choice like a chilled glass of white wine. For the true diner experience, you can’t go wrong with a cold root beer float on the side either.

The beef patty melt is dipped in the spicy braising sauce.

Leftovers & Reheating Instructions

If you somehow have a leftover beef patty melt, wrap it up in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for no more than a few days. When you’re ready to reheat, pop it back in a hot skillet over medium heat until the cheese melts again. The consomme can be stored in a small bowl with a tight-fitting lid—reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to serve.

More Patty Melts

FAQs for the Beef Melt

Can I use a different type of cheese? 

Absolutely! While American cheese gives you that classic beef patty melt, you can swap it out for a slice of Swiss cheese, cheddar, or even parmesan cheese. 

What if I don’t have a Dutch oven? 

No Dutch oven? No problem. You can use a large cast iron skillet. Just make sure it can handle the heat and has enough room for the beef and braising liquid.

How can I make this less spicy? 

If you’re not into the heat, just skip the chipotle puree. You’ll still get tons of flavor from the braising mix, but without the kick.

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The Beer-Braised Beef Melt is epic!
Print

Beer Braised Beef Melt

This epic sandwich takes the classic American patty melt to another level with beef that's braised with Samuel Adams October Fest.
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 313kcal
Author Derek Wolf

Ingredients

Beef:

  • 6-8 Beef Short Ribs
  • 3 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 3 tbsp Black Pepper
  • 3 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • Canola Oil as needed

Braising + Seasonings:

  • 12 oz Sam Adams Octoberfest
  • 2-3 cups Beef Broth
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp Sea Salt
  • 2 tbsp Chipotle Puree
  • 1.5 tbsp Dried Oregano
  • 2 Cinnamon Sticks
  • 3-4 Rosemary Sprigs
  • 2 Thyme Sprigs
  • 2 Bay Leaves

Grilled Cheese:

  • 3 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Red Onions sliced
  • ½ cup Jalapenos sliced
  • Thick Cut Sliced Bread

Instructions

  • Preheat your grill to medium high temperature (around 375F).
  • Slather your beef ribs with oil and liberally season with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Place the beef ribs on the grill and sear off all sides until browned. Pull the beef off and place down your dutch oven.
  • Next, add your sliced onions add all the other braising ingredients plus the Sam Adams Octoberfest. Add your beef ribs back to the dutch oven and fill with beef broth so that the beef ribs are almost submerged in the broth.
  • Cover the dutch oven and let simmer over medium high heat until the beef is fork tender (about 3.5-4.5 hours). Make sure to skim the top of the sauce of fat as needed.
  • Once the beef is tender, pull it off, dispose of the bones and everything else except for the sauce itself. Strain your braising sauce from the meat until it is a clean consomme. Add the consomme to a new bowl. Then, shred your beef.
  • Preheat a cast iron skillet over a medium high heat fire (about 350F) for direct cooking. Add some oil to the skillet 2 minutes before cooking.
  • Add your sliced red onions and jalapenos to soften in the skillet for 3-4 minutes. Pull off once done.
  • Then, lay out a piece of bread and cover with a handful of shredded cheese, top with a handful of shredded beef, some red onions & jalapenos then add some more shredded cheese and another slice of bread.
  • Add the grilled cheese to the skillet and toast the bread for 45-60 seconds a side until golden brown. Flip and toast the other side, then pull off and repeat for the rest of the grilled cheese sandwiches.
  • Add your consomme to a bowl and top with chopped red onions and cilantro. Slice your Beef Melt and serve with the consomme. Enjoy!

Notes

What’s so special about Samuel Adams Octoberfest beer? 
Samuel Adams Octoberfest is the ultimate fall brew that’s been winning hearts since 1989. This beer is all about those rich, malty vibes, packed with notes of caramel and toffee that just scream autumn. It’s got that deep amber hue and a perfect balance of sweetness with a touch of hop bitterness, making it the ideal drink when you’re looking to cozy up as the temps drop and you’re digging into some hearty seasonal meals.

Nutrition

Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 16g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 6489mg | Potassium: 308mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 719IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 479mg | Iron: 2mg

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Easy Cold Appetizer Recipes

In my life I am always the one that hosts the parties. With the pool in the backyard, we are the go-to place for the sports teams, cheerleading events, birthday parties and of course, all the fall holidays. And I’d be lying to you if I didn&#8217…

In my life I am always the one that hosts the parties. With the pool in the backyard, we are the go-to place for the sports teams, cheerleading events, birthday parties and of course, all the fall holidays. And I’d be lying to you if I didn’t admit that I often cater the big portion...

The post Easy Cold Appetizer Recipes appeared first on Salty Side Dish.

French Bread Pizza

My homemade French bread pizza recipe features French bread brushed with garlic butter and baked with pizza toppings. It’s crisp, bubbly, and ready in 15 minutes. Need more pizza inspiration? Try my Sicilian pizza, cast iron pizza, or crustless p…

French bread pizza recipe.My homemade French bread pizza recipe features French bread brushed with garlic butter and baked with pizza toppings. It’s crisp, bubbly, and ready in 15 minutes. Need more pizza inspiration? Try my Sicilian pizza, cast iron pizza, or crustless pizza next.  When my family craves pizza but I can’t be bothered to make my homemade…

Crispy Chicken Croissant Sandwich

You can’t go wrong with a GOOD chicken sandwich. I am talking about a fried chicken sandwich, grilled chicken sandwich, classic chicken salad sandwich, and this Crispy Chicken Croissant Sandwich. All are WINNERS, but every time I make this crispy…

You can’t go wrong with a GOOD chicken sandwich. I am talking about a fried chicken sandwich, grilled chicken sandwich, classic chicken salad sandwich, and this Crispy Chicken Croissant Sandwich. All are WINNERS, but every time I make this crispy chicken sandwich, it gets RAVE reviews. Let’s break it down. The sandwich starts with juicy,…

Classic Tomato Sandwich

This is your reminder to enjoy a simple tomato sandwich with your summer tomatoes. Keep it simple with soft slices of bread, juicy tomatoes and mayonnaise or dress it up as you’d like.

This is your reminder to enjoy a simple tomato sandwich with your summer tomatoes. Keep it simple with soft slices of bread, juicy tomatoes and mayonnaise or dress it up as you'd like.

Pimento Cheese BLTs.

I live for pimento cheese BLTs! This creamy, cheesy spread is layered on sourdough with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes and shredded romaine. Delicious and perfect for summer! It’s the season for perfect BLTs!  This pimento cheese BLT is a little twist on the classic. That creamy, melty pimento cheese is spread on toasted sourdough before […]

The post Pimento Cheese BLTs. appeared first on How Sweet Eats.

I live for pimento cheese BLTs! This creamy, cheesy spread is layered on sourdough with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes and shredded romaine. Delicious and perfect for summer!

It’s the season for perfect BLTs! 

pimento cheese BLTs

This pimento cheese BLT is a little twist on the classic. That creamy, melty pimento cheese is spread on toasted sourdough before being layered with bacon, tomatoes and crisp romaine lettuce. 

It’s my summer dream sandwich! 

pimento cheese BLTs

I live for a good BLT in the late summer months. Lunch, dinner, heck – I’d even make one for breakfast. The juxtaposition of the tomatoes and the bacon, now with creamy cheese spread is EVERYTHING. 

Incredible for a texture lover like me. I crave the flavors, the crunch, the summer juiciness. It’s fantastic. 

pimento cheese BLTs

Now, here’s the thing. NOTHING, and I mean nothing, beats my marinated tomato BLT. A juicy marinated tomato is the ideal BLT maker. 

But! On this sandwich, the marinade made the pimento cheese a little runny and oily. I find that I love a marinated BLT when it’s a traditional, classic version.

pimento cheese BLTs

Since this one uses a super cheesy dip, no need for the marinade. Just give the tomatoes a very heavy handed sprinkle of seasoning. Top with bacon, More sourdough. And eat! 

Another thing I’ve learned is that I really love shredded lettuce on a BLT. I like it more than whole leaves of lettuce, even if they are velvety butter lettuce leaves. It’s easier to eat. I love shredded lettuce plain, and I love it when it’s tossed in a light vinaigrette or dressing. Can’t beat it!  (more…)

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Pickle Grilled Cheese

Whether you’re a pickle lover, or just someone who wants to jazz up your grilled cheese game, this Pickle Grilled Cheese recipe is going to become your new favorite! Why I Love This Recipe The Ingredients How to Make a Pickle Grilled Cheese Step 1: Lightly spread butter on one side of each piece of…

The post Pickle Grilled Cheese appeared first on Weelicious.

Whether you’re a pickle lover, or just someone who wants to jazz up your grilled cheese game, this Pickle Grilled Cheese recipe is going to become your new favorite!

Grilled Cheese Pickle Panini from weelicious.com

Why I Love This Recipe

  • Fun Twist on Grilled Cheese: I’m all about giving classic grilled cheese a twist—whether it’s an avocado grilled cheese or a cauliflower crusted grilled cheese. This pickle grilled cheese takes it up a notch with tangy pickles and melted cheese, creating a deliciously flavor combination you might not think to try!
  • Quick and Easy: This sandwich is made with just a few ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be a super affordable meal option.
  • Kid-Friendly: My son actually came up with this idea, so you know it’s 100% kid-approved! There’s something about the creamy cheese with the crunch of the pickle that kids love.
  • Customizable: One of the best parts is you get to mix and match your favorite type of cheese and pickles to create your perfect variations of a pickle grilled cheese sandwich.

The Ingredients

Pickle grilled cheese ingredients.
  • Bread: Choose your favorite sandwich bread. Sourdough bread or rye can add extra flavor and texture, but any bread will do.
  • Butter: Soften the butter for easy spreading!
  • Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is my go-to for its rich flavor, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey jack or gruyere for added gooeyness. Really any kind of cheese that’s melty will work.
  • Pickles: Dill pickles work best in my opinion, but bread and butter pickles can add a sweeter twist. I thinly slice whole dill pickles, but you can use dill pickle chips if you want!

How to Make a Pickle Grilled Cheese

Two slices sandwich bread on marble countertop.

Step 1: Lightly spread butter on one side of each piece of bread.

Open faced sandwich with cheddar cheese slice and sliced pickles.

Step 2: Place a slice of cheese on one slice of bread and cover with a layer of sliced pickles. Place another slice of cheese on top of the pickles and cover with a slice of bread, butter-side up.

Pickle grilled cheese on saute pan.

Step 3: Heat sauté pan over medium heat (or preheat your panini maker). Cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, about 3 minutes on each side.

Sliced pickle grilled cheese on cutting board.

Step 4: Once cooked, cut the sandwich on a diagonal to make triangles and serve hot.

Tips and Tricks

  • Don’t Rush: Cook your sandwich over medium heat to ensure the cheese melts fully without burning the bread.
  • Choose the Right Cheese: A good melting cheese is key. Sharp cheddar is classic, but adding a slice of American cheese can give you that extra melt factor.
  • Experiment with Pickles: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types of pickles like spicy, garlic, or even pickled jalapeños if you have older kids that like a little kick!
  • Pat Pickles Dry: Use a paper towel to pat the pickle slices dry to prevent a soggy sandwich.

Recipes to Serve with a Pickle Grilled Cheese

A Pickle Grilled Cheese sandwich is delicious on its own, but if you want to make it a meal, here are some perfect pairings:

Grilled Cheese Pickle Panini from weelicious.com

More Melty Sandwich Ideas

If you take a classic grilled cheese and add a few slices of dill pickles you up the ante on a sandwich already bordering on perfection! This Pickle Grilled Cheese has become a new lunchtime favorite in our house, and I think it will yours too. Love this recipe? Leave a comment or rating below!

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Print

Pickle Grilled Cheese

With its crunchy exterior, gooey interior, and a pop of tangy pickle flavor, this Pickle Grilled Cheese is sure to become a regular in your lunchtime rotation.
Course Lunch
Cuisine American
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings 2
Calories 379kcal

Equipment

  • saute pan or cast iron skillet (you could also you a panini press)

Ingredients

  • 4 slices sandwich bread of choice (i.e whole wheat, sourdough, rye or white bread)
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (or melting cheese of choice)
  • 2 dill pickles, thinly sliced lengthwise (or dill pickle chips)

Instructions

  • Lightly spread butter on one side of each piece of bread.
  • Place a slice of cheese on one slice of bread and cover with a layer of sliced pickles.
  • Place another slice of cheese on top of the pickles and cover with a slice of bread, butter-side up.
  • Heat sauté pan over medium heat (or preheat your panini maker). Cook the sandwich until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted, about 3 minutes on each side.
  • Once cooked, cut the sandwich on a diagonal to make triangles and serve hot.

Notes

  • Don’t Rush: Cook your sandwich over medium heat to ensure the cheese melts fully without burning the bread.
  • Choose the Right Cheese: A good melting cheese is key. Sharp cheddar is classic, but adding a slice of American cheese can give you that extra melt factor.
  • Experiment with Pickles: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types of pickles like spicy, garlic, or even pickled jalapeños if you have older kids that like a little kick!
  • Pat Pickles Dry: Use a paper towel to pat the pickle slices dry to prevent a soggy sandwich.

Nutrition

Calories: 379kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 56mg | Sodium: 1143mg | Potassium: 256mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 682IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 522mg | Iron: 2mg

The post Pickle Grilled Cheese appeared first on Weelicious.

15 Easy Back-to-School Sandwiches

The back-to-school season is here, and we all know how important it is to pack a lunch that will make our kids happy and satisfied. When it comes to delicious and easy lunch options, sandwiches are always a winner! A yummy sandwich is a classic lunchtime favorite, offering endless possibilities for creativity and flavor. I’ve…

The post 15 Easy Back-to-School Sandwiches appeared first on Weelicious.

The back-to-school season is here, and we all know how important it is to pack a lunch that will make our kids happy and satisfied. When it comes to delicious and easy lunch options, sandwiches are always a winner! A yummy sandwich is a classic lunchtime favorite, offering endless possibilities for creativity and flavor. I’ve rounded up my 15 favorite back-to-school sandwiches that are not only tasty but also a breeze to make.

Tips to Make Sandwiches More Interesting for Kids

While sandwiches are a tried and true lunchtime favorite, they can be a bit mundane after a while. Making sandwiches more interesting for kids can be a fun and creative way to get them excited about lunchtime. Here are some tips to make sandwiches more enjoyable and appealing for kids:

  1. Use Fun Shapes: Make sandwiches visually appealing by using cookie cutters to create fun shapes like stars, hearts, or animals. Think Monogram Sandwiches and Two-Tone Sandwiches. These playful shapes will instantly spark joy and have your kid excited about what shape they’re getting that day!
  2. Add Colorful Ingredients: Brighten up sandwiches with colorful fruits and veggies like strawberries, blueberries, cucumbers, or bell peppers. The vibrant hues will make the meal more enticing. After all, we eat with our eyes first!
  3. Try Unique Spreads: Experiment with different spreads such as flavored cream cheese, hummus, guacamole, or basil pesto. These tasty spreads will add exciting new flavors to their sandwiches.
  4. Build Your Own: Give your kids a sense of ownership by providing an assortment of ingredients and letting them build their own sandwiches. This hands-on approach will make lunchtime interactive and enjoyable.
  5. Mini Sandwich Fun: Make lunchtime fun-sized with mini versions of their favorite sandwiches using slider buns, small rolls or just cutting them into little “sammies” as we like to call them. These adorable mini sandwiches are perfect for little hands.
  6. Add a Sweet Twist: Add a touch of sweetness with sliced apples, a drizzle of honey, or a honey mustard dressing. This delightful contrast will elevate the taste. We love this Apple Pie Panini for a savory and sweet combo.
  7. Serve as Kabobs: Thread sandwich ingredients onto skewers to make sandwich kabobs. This presentation adds a playful twist and makes eating more enjoyable!
  8. Make it a Wrap: Swap regular bread with tortilla wraps or lettuce leaves for a different texture and presentation like I do for Rainbow Roll-Up Sandwiches and Turkey Club Lettuce Wraps.

Kid Friendly Sandwiches for School Lunch

Peanut Butter and Jelly Skewers
Everyone knows and loves a good classic PB&J, but sometimes you just want to make something a little more fun. PB&J Skewers are a blast to make and kids love anything on a stick!
Monogram Sandwich from Weelicious.com
Monogram Sandwich
Monogram Sandwiches are a fun personal touch to your kids lunch time! It takes something ordinary and makes it special.
Egg Pesto Melt
My kids love a good egg sandwich and ask for this Egg Pesto Melt all the time. The pesto really takes it to the next level!
Animal Face Toast from Weelicious.com
Animal Face Toast
I'm convinced there's nothing cuter than these Animal Face Toasts! Imagine your kid's eyes lighting up when they open their lunch box to one of these cuties.
Egg Salad Sandwich
Egg Salad Sandwiches are so easy to make and this recipe is absolutely delicious. Tons of protein and tasty! A win-win.
Banana Dog Bites from weelicious.com
Banana Peanut Butter Roll Ups
All you need to make these Banana Roll Ups is your favorite nut or seed butter, a banana and a tortilla! Add a drizzle of honey for a little extra sweetness!
PBJ Pancakes Sammies from weelicious.com
PBJ Pancakes Sandwiches
Make PB&J's more fun by using peanut butter pancakes as the "bread" and your favorite jam in the center!
Two Tone Sandwich
School lunch should be fun to eat but also easy to make! These Two Tone Sandwiches are super cute and ready in minutes!
Tuna Salad sushi sandwiches on platter and in lunch box.
Kid-Friendly “Sushi” Sandwiches
When you want the simplicity of making a sandwich but with a more exciting look, Sushi Sandwiches are the ticket.
Rainbow Roll Up Sandwiches
Rainbows for Days! I don't know any kid who wouldn't love to open up their lunch box to these Rainbow Roll Up Sandwiches! 
Cucumber Cream Cheese Sammies
Cut these sammies into 4 squares or use a cookie cutter to make fun mini sandwich shapes!
Uncrustables from Weelicious.com
Uncrustables
Homemade uncrustables come in any shape you can dream up and are so easy to make!
Pizza Pinwheels
These pinwheels are really like a pizza "sandwich" because the filling is savory, kind of like a ham and cheese sandwich, but much cooler looking.
Turkey Club Lettuce Wraps
Low carb but highly delicious, these Turkey Club Lettuce Wraps are a great option for lunch.
Turkey Pickle Roll Ups
Turkey Pickle Roll Ups are a simple yet fun addition to any school lunch.
Chocolate Sunbutter Pancake Sandwiches
Chocolate Sunbutter Pancake Sandwiches are perfect for school lunches (especially at nut-free schools) or as a satisfying snack!
Rice Cracker “Face” Sandwiches
Here are some Rice Cracker "Face" Sandwiches to help you feel extra happy today! Making lunch fun is the best way to make sure it gets eaten! 

Get creative when it comes to sandwich making and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. If you need even more tips for school lunch, get my Weelicious Lunches Cookbook filled with innovative solutions for quick, delicious, easy-to-make, kid-friendly lunch box meals that are perfect for back-to-school!

The post 15 Easy Back-to-School Sandwiches appeared first on Weelicious.

Homemade Uncrustables

Here’s game-changing lunch solution for you: Homemade Uncrustables! These delightful pocket sandwiches are not only a lunchbox hit but also a lifesaver on busy mornings. Embrace the DIY Uncrustables magic and learn how to make, freeze, and enjoy them like a pro below. Why I Love This Recipe What is it about crust on sandwich…

The post Homemade Uncrustables appeared first on Weelicious.

Here’s game-changing lunch solution for you: Homemade Uncrustables! These delightful pocket sandwiches are not only a lunchbox hit but also a lifesaver on busy mornings. Embrace the DIY Uncrustables magic and learn how to make, freeze, and enjoy them like a pro below.

Homemade Uncrustables on large cutting board with fruits and vegetables.

Why I Love This Recipe

What is it about crust on sandwich bread that many kids just seem to hate?! It is so common for kids to eat around the crust, ask for the crust to be cut off, or avoid a sandwich altogether if they see even a hint of crust. So, I came up with my version of what is now known as an Uncrustable and it’s one of the best sandwiches for school lunch! Here’s why:

  1. Personalized Perfection: Customize the fillings to match your child’s taste buds – from classic PB&J to even turkey and cheese, the options are endless. Plus, you get to cut them into fun shapes if you want!
  2. Healthier Ingredients: You can also opt for healthier ingredients like whole-grain bread, natural nut butter, and high-quality or homemade fruit preserves.
  3. Time-Saving Wonders: Let’s face it, mornings can be chaos. Having a stash of homemade Uncrustables in the freezer means you can grab, pack, and conquer the school lunch with ease.
  4. Cost-Effective: Compared to buying pre-packaged options, making Uncrustables at home is budget-friendly and you can use the crusts to make other recipes like Croutons or Cinnamon Toast Pinwheels!

What You’ll Need

Uncrustables ingredients on countertop.
  • Sandwich Bread: A classic store bought sandwich bread works best for Uncrustables. They key is that it’s pretty soft. These won’t work as well with a more artisanal loaf of bread.
  • Fillings: Whatever sandwich filling floats your boat! You can do the classic PB&J combo, a different nut or seed butter with homemade strawberry preserves or even hummus with chopped veggies.
  • Sealer: You can use a Sandwich Sealer like this one or this one or, if you don’t have one of those tools, a fork and a cookie cutter or mouth of a large glass will work too!

How to Make Homemade Uncrustables

Piece of sandwich bread with peanut butter and and fruit preserves in the center.

Step 1: Spread a piece of sandwich bread with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter. Place 1 tablespoon preserves on top of peanut butter.

Sandwich on countertop.

Step 2: Top with another piece of bread.

Uncrustables sandwich cutter on top of assembled sandwich.

Step 3: Sandwich the two pieces together and cut with a cookie cutter, Uncrustables sandwich cutter or the mouth of a large glass.

Homemade uncrustable.

Step 4: If using a cookie cutter or glass, remove the excess bread, take a fork and press down just the edges of the bread to adhere to each other. If using an Uncrustables cutter follow packages directions.

Tips and Tricks

  • Customize Your Fillings: Get creative with fillings like almond butter, banana slices, honey, cream cheese, or even hummus and veggies. Make sure the fillings aren’t too runny to prevent soggy sandwiches and don’t overfill.
  • Seal Like a Pro: I used to use a fork with a cookie cutter to seal (which works great), but my new favorite school lunch gear item is probably this special Uncrustables sandwich sealer that presses down the edges and seals the sandwiches tight. Whichever method, just make sure you seal properly to prevent fillings from leaking out during freezing.
  • Use the Crusts: I hate wasting food! Save those crusts for breadcrumbs, homemade croutons or these cute Cinnamon Toast Pinwheels!

How to Freeze and Thaw Homemade Uncrustables

  1. Freezing: Place the assembled sandwiches in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they’re firm, transfer to an airtight container or zipper bags to prevent freezer burn. Freeze Uncrustables for up to two months. Make sure they’re properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
  2. Thawing: To enjoy, simply take a sandwich out of the freezer in the morning and let it thaw in the school lunchbox or at room temperature. It’ll be ready to eat by lunchtime!
Homemade uncrustables on wooden cutting board surrounded by fruits.

More Fun Sandwiches for Kids

These homemade uncrustables are perfect to tuck into school lunch, or serve on a big fun platter like you see pictured above complete with fresh fruit, fresh vegetables, strawberry fruit leather, and other yummy snacks. Let me know what you think of these sandwiches by leaving a comment and rating below!

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Uncrustables from Weelicious.com
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Uncrustables

Homemade uncrustables come in any shape you can dream up and are so easy to make!
Course Lunch
Cuisine American
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 135kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 slices sandwich bread
  • peanut butter (almond butter, cashew butter or sun butter work too!)
  • fruit preserves

Instructions

  • Spread a piece of sandwich bread with 1 tablespoon peanut butter.
  • Place 1 tablespoon preserves on top of the peanut butter and top with another piece of bread.
  • Sandwich the two pieces together and cut with a cookie cutter, Uncrustables sandwich cutter or the mouth of a large glass.
  • If you’re using a cookie cutter or glass, remove the excess bread, take a fork and press down just the edges of the bread to adhere to each other. If using an Uncrustables cutter follow packages directions. 

Notes

  • Seal Like a Pro: Use a fork or a special Uncrustables sandwich sealer to press down the edges and seal the sandwiches tight. This will prevent fillings from leaking out during freezing.
  • Mind the Crust: Trim the crusts off the bread using a round cutter or simply by pressing down with a glass. Save those crusts for breadcrumbs, homemade croutons or these cute Cinnamon Toast Pinwheels!
  • Freeze with Love: Place the assembled sandwiches in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they’re firm, transfer to an airtight container or zipper bags to prevent freezer burn.

Nutrition

Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 239mg | Potassium: 59mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Calcium: 106mg | Iron: 2mg

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