A patty melt is a classic diner sandwich featuring a juicy beef patty, caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and crispy toasted bread. Add a rich and tangy secret sauce, and you’ve got the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melt:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 slices Swiss or American cheese
- 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened (for toasting bread)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Make the Secret Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and caramelized. Set aside.
- Cook the Patties:
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties slightly larger than the bread slices (they’ll shrink as they cook). Season with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread a thin layer of secret sauce on one side of each bread slice.
- Layer one slice of cheese, a cooked patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese on 4 of the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, sauce-side down.
- Toast the Patty Melt:
- Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich. In the same skillet or griddle over medium heat, cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot with fries or a side salad. Enjoy the gooey, savory goodness!
Tips for the Best Patty Melt
- Use Fresh Bread: Rye bread is classic, but sourdough or Texas toast works well too.
- Customize Cheese: Try provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack for a different twist.
- Make Ahead: Caramelize the onions in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add Pickles: A layer of dill pickles adds an extra tangy crunch.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 680
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 910mg
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