Steak n Shake Frisco Melt Copycat Recipe

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a Frisco melt from Steak n Shake, but when the craving hits and going out isn’t an option, this delicious copycat recipe brings those same signature flavors right into your kitchen. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers the iconic taste your family already loves.

Why You’ll Love This Frisco Melt Copycat

• Tastes just like the restaurant version
• Quick and easy to prepare
• Uses simple, affordable ingredients
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Easy to customize to your tastes
• Fun fact: The Frisco Melt is named after Frisco-style sourdough toast, which inspired its signature bread choice.

Simple Ingredients

You only need a handful of classic diner staples to recreate this favorite.

• Ground beef: Thin patties cook fast and stay juicy
• Texas toast: Thick slices give that signature buttery crunch
• American cheese: Creamy, classic melt
• Swiss cheese: Adds mild nuttiness
• Thousand Island dressing: Base of the Frisco sauce
• Ketchup: Boosts tangy sweetness
• Butter: Essential for golden, crispy toast

Servings & Time

Servings: 4 melts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

What Is Needed

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 slices Texas toast
• 4 slices American cheese
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 3 tbsp butter
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

• In a small bowl, mix Thousand Island dressing and ketchup until smooth. Set aside.
• Form ground beef into thin patties. Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
• Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer American cheese, beef patty, Swiss cheese, and Frisco sauce. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out. Grill on medium heat until golden and cheese is melted, flipping once.

Top Tips

• Press patties thin for authentic diner texture
• Don’t rush the toasting medium heat melts cheese evenly
• Use a lid briefly to help cheese melt faster
• Let melts rest 1 minute before cutting
• Double the sauce if you like it extra tangy

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using thick burger patties
• Cooking bread on heat that’s too high
• Skipping butter on the toast
• Overloading with sauce
• Flipping too often

How to Customize This Recipe

• Sweeter: Add extra ketchup to the sauce
• Spicier: Stir in a dash of hot sauce
• Tangier: Add diced pickles to the sauce
• Thicker/Richer: Use extra cheese slices
• Healthier: Swap ground beef for lean turkey

Extra Serving Ideas

Pairs perfectly with:

• French fries
• Onion rings
• Coleslaw
• Pickle spears
• Milkshakes

Ingredient Substitutions

• Sourdough bread: Swap for Texas toast if preferred
• Cheddar cheese: Use instead of Swiss for sharper flavor
• Burger sauce: Replace Thousand Island if needed

Vegan Version: Use plant-based patties, dairy-free cheese, and vegan dressing.
Healthier Version: Use whole-grain bread and lean beef or turkey.

Short History of Frisco Melt

The Frisco Melt became a fan-favorite at Steak ’n Shake for combining elements of a patty melt with tangy sauce and buttery toast. Its name nods to Frisco-style sourdough sandwiches, reimagined diner-style.

Recommended Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Butter knife

Make-Ahead Tips

• Mix sauce up to 3 days ahead
• Pre-form patties and refrigerate
• Pre-slice cheese and bread

How to Store and Reheat

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in an air fryer until warmed through.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Shoestring fries
• Classic diner salad
• Sweet potato fries
• Tomato soup
• Root beer floats

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

This recipe is inspired by the iconic Steak ’n Shake Frisco Melt. It captures the same core flavors, textures, and aroma using simple ingredients while remaining budget-friendly, quick, and perfect for recreating restaurant-quality meals at home.

More Copy Restaurant Recipes

• Popular Copycat Restaurant Recipes you can make at home

Steak ’n Shake Frisco Melt Copycat

Michelle

A quick and easy copycat Frisco Melt with buttery Texas toast, melty cheese, and tangy sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Dishes

Servings 4

Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Butter knife

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 slices Texas toast
• 4 slices American cheese
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• ½ cup Thousand Island dressing
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 3 tbsp butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Make the Frisco Sauce: In a small bowl, mix Thousand Island dressing and ketchup until smooth. Set aside.
• Cook the Patties: Form ground beef into thin patties. Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
• Assemble & Toast: Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer American cheese, beef patty, Swiss cheese, and Frisco sauce. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out. Grill on medium heat until golden and cheese is melted, flipping once.

Notes

• Smash patties thin for authentic diner-style texture.
• Use low heat when toasting to avoid burning the bread.
• Sauce flavor improves if mixed a few minutes ahead.

Keyword Steak ’n Shake Frisco Melt Copycat