For all the lunches and dinners where you truly don’t want to know your child's answer to the question “what would you like to eat?,” there is this: a chopped cheese. A staple of New York bodegas, it’s something like a burger as a sandwich: same ingredients, different presentation. You wouldn’t be wrong in comparing it to a Philly cheesesteak, albeit with burger flavors. Think of it as a toddler cheeseburger.
Added bonus: it’s ridiculously easy to make and something like a guilty pleasure for you (and sheer pleasure for your child). This isn’t science, and it’s barely cooking: just the simple but magical alchemy of cheese, mayo, and grease. It’s just the sort of genius you’d crave at 12am—just now serving at 12pm.
(Note: at a bodega, a chopped cheese would contain the tomato, lettuce, and pickles you’d typically find on a fast food burger; we’ve not included them here because of the likelihood of confusion and/or disgust from a young child. Feel free to chop up any of the above and place on the sandwich if your kid—or you!—enjoys them.
This toddler cheeseburger uses familiar ingredients, prepared in a way that keeps the texture soft and approachable:
The focus is on simplicity, softness, and classic flavors kids recognize.
This recipe is designed to be quick and low-stress:
You can also serve the patty on its own for younger toddlers who aren’t ready for a full sandwich.
Is this cheeseburger safe for toddlers?
Yes. The meat is fully cooked, seasoning is mild, and the bun is soft enough for young eaters.
What age is this best for?
Most toddlers and preschoolers who can handle soft sandwiches will do well with this. You can deconstruct it for younger kids.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes. The patties can be cooked ahead and reheated gently. Assemble with buns just before serving.
What cheese works best?
Mild cheeses like American, cheddar, or Colby Jack melt well and are easy for toddlers to eat.
This toddler cheeseburger keeps classic burger flavors but softens the texture and seasoning so young kids can enjoy it safely. With juicy beef, melted cheese, and a tender bun, it’s an easy family dinner or lunch option.
Assuming your roll isn’t overly crusty or bready, a toddler comfortable holding, say, a quarter or half of a burger should have no issues holding and nibbling from his/her half without having to cut it further. If further cuts are needed, be sure and really smash down the sandwich before cutting so contents don’t spill out. Serve with condiments on the side, for dipping.
When you think about it, this is really just a mayo-slicked grilled cheese sandwich on a different kind of bread. So if your kiddo isn’t in love with the delivery mechanism, or just really likes grilled cheese, just do the following: make the meat-cheese mix as described; mayo or butter up two slices of sandwich bread; toss the meat into between the bread and place in a panini and waffle maker until crisp.
Servings 2
Serving Size 1/2 sandwich
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Brad (the Dad) is the founder and Chief Recipe Officer of New Dad's Kitchen. His own cooking/feeding journey started humbly during his son's infancy, preparing and managing his son's bottle intake in order to support his wife; it has since blossomed into a full-on passion to feed his child and family delicious and healthy meals that can satisfy both a toddler and his very tired parents.
