Patty Melt
A deliciously indulgent patty melt featuring caramelized onions, melty cheese, and a creamy secret sauce, all sandwiched between golden-buttered bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 is ideal for flavor and juiciness; use leaner if preferred
- 4 slices rye or wheat bread Rye for classic flavor, wheat for milder option
- 4 slices American or Swiss cheese American melts easily; Swiss adds nuttiness
- 1 large onion Thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter Divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste
For the Secret Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1-2 tablespoons pickle relish To taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and melt.
- Add the sliced onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until deep golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Season lightly with salt. Remove onions to a plate.
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form thin patties slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Cooking Patties
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the patties. Cook until browned and cooked to medium, about 4 minutes per side (adjust time for desired doneness). Transfer patties to a plate.
Assembling Sandwiches
- Assemble sandwiches: place one patty on a slice of bread, top with a slice of cheese and a generous scoop of caramelized onions. Top with another slice of bread.
- Spread a thin layer of butter on the exterior faces of each sandwich.
Grilling
- Return the skillet to medium heat. Place sandwiches butter-side-down and cook until the bread is golden and the cheese starts to melt, about 3–4 minutes per side. Press lightly with a spatula for even contact.
Making the Secret Sauce
- While the sandwiches cook, make the secret sauce: whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, and pickle relish in a small bowl. Taste and adjust proportions to preference.
Serving
- Remove sandwiches from the skillet, let rest 1 minute, then slice and serve hot with the sauce on the side.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The secret sauce keeps in a small sealed jar for up to 5 days. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground beef and vegan mayo/cheese.