The Daddy Melt

Name: The Daddy Melt
Ingredients: 2 medium Cheater Fajita Onions (page 172); 6 thick, juicy Cheater Kitchen Burgers (page 119); 6 slices American cheese; 12 slices thick white bread

January 24, 2012

Our other favorite Nashville chicken joint, McDougal’s Village Coop, is renowned for its fried chicken tenders, Peyton Manning’s UT Knoxville fridge door bolted to the ceiling, and kegs of local Yazoo beer on tap. We renamed our favorite patty melt the “Daddy Melt” after owner Tommy McDougal announced the news of his first child and because it was his late stepdad Tanksley Foster’s favorite lunch. Unfortunately, the burger’s success led to its extinction. It was just too popular for a place whose motto is “Chicken and Beer.”

Recipe notes

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Dulce de Leche

Make this versatile caramel at home with our slow-simmered method using milk and sugar—or take one of two sweetened condensed milk shortcuts.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

Gochujang Turkey Sweet Potatoes

Fully loaded, meal-prep friendly, and ready to be dressed up, down, or sideways.