Crispy, buttery bread, juicy beef patties, sweet caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a tangy secret sauce combine for the ultimate comfort food sandwich.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese (your preference)
- 8 slices rye or sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Secret Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir until smooth and creamy. Set aside for assembly.
2. Caramelize the Onions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter or add a drizzle of oil.
- Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Shape and Cook the Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties slightly larger than your bread slices (they’ll shrink during cooking).
- Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- On the unbuttered side, spread a generous amount of secret sauce.
- Layer a cooked patty, a slice of cheese, a scoop of caramelized onions, and another bread slice (buttered side facing out).
5. Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the skillet and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve Hot
- Slice the patty melts in half and serve immediately with extra secret sauce on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips
- For an Extra Crunch: Toast the bread lightly before assembling the melts.
- Customizations: Add a slice of tomato or a few pickle chips inside for added flavor and texture.
Enjoy these classic Patty Melts with a gourmet twist! Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you’re craving a hearty sandwich.