The Patty Melt is a timeless classic that combines the juiciness of a burger, the gooeyness of melted cheese, and the comforting crunch of grilled rye bread. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this sandwich has stood the test of time as a favorite in diners and homes alike. With a hint of sweetness from caramelized onions and a touch of tang from a secret sauce, this dish will surely be a hit at your table. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is straightforward and guarantees delicious results.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melt:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 slices of rye bread
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp butter (plus extra for spreading)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp relish
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Serves: 4 sandwiches
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Secret Sauce
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Set the sauce aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
- Stir occasionally, allowing the onions to soften and turn golden brown. This process takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Once caramelized, remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef Patties
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into thin patties, slightly larger than your bread slices (they will shrink as they cook).
- Season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet used for the onions, melt another 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the patties and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
- Lay out the slices of rye bread. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice.
- On the unbuttered side of four slices, spread a generous amount of the secret sauce.
- Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauce, followed by a beef patty.
- Add caramelized onions and another slice of Swiss cheese on top.
- Finish with the remaining slices of rye bread, buttered side facing outward.
Step 5: Grill the Patty Melts
- Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Grill the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Patty Melts warm with a side of crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or even a bowl of comforting soup. The secret sauce can double as a dip for fries or veggies, adding an extra burst of flavor.
The Patty Melt is more than just a sandwich; it’s a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s sure to satisfy any craving. The buttery crunch of rye bread, the savory beef, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the tangy secret sauce all come together in this timeless dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this recipe is a surefire way to enjoy a comforting and indulgent meal. Try it out, and let the classic Patty Melt become a staple in your kitchen!