Irresistible Patty Melts with Secret Sauce – The Ultimate Crispy, Cheesy, Flavor-Packed Sandwich!
Patty melts are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a secret sauce, all sandwiched between buttery grilled rye bread. This recipe takes the classic diner favorite to the next level with a flavorful secret sauce that adds a tangy, creamy twist. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these patty melts are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Recipe Preparation Equipment
- Skillet or Griddle: For cooking the patties and grilling the sandwiches.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the secret sauce and shaping the patties.
- Spatula: For flipping the patties and assembling the sandwiches.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing onions and bread.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices rye bread
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
For the Secret Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
How to Make Easy Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Secret Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Shape and Cook the Patties
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Irresistible Patty Melts with Secret Sauce – The Ultimate Crispy, Cheesy, Flavor-Packed Sandwich!
Description
Patty melts are the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a secret sauce, all sandwiched between buttery grilled rye bread. This recipe takes the classic diner favorite to the next level with a flavorful secret sauce that adds a tangy, creamy twist. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these patty melts are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts
-
1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1 teaspoon black pepper
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 large onion, thinly sliced
-
4 slices rye bread
-
4 slices Swiss cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
-
2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
For the Secret Sauce
-
1/4 cup mayonnaise
-
2 tablespoons ketchup
-
1 tablespoon relish
-
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
-
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
-
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Secret Sauce
-
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
-
Mix well until smooth.
-
Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
-
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter.
-
Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
-
Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Shape and Cook the Patties
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In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Divide the mixture into 2 equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than the bread slices.
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Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
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Remove the patties and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melts
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Spread the secret sauce on one side of each rye bread slice.
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Layer Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese on top.
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Top with the second slice of bread, sauce side down.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwiches
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Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the remaining butter.
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Place the assembled patty melts in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted
Notes
-
Don’t Overwork the Meat: Handle the ground beef gently to keep the patties tender.
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly sliced onions and high-quality cheese make a big difference.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Divide the mixture into 2 equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than the bread slices.
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness.
- Remove the patties and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melts
- Spread the secret sauce on one side of each rye bread slice.
- Layer Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese on top.
- Top with the second slice of bread, sauce side down.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the remaining butter.
- Place the assembled patty melts in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Variations
- Turkey Patty Melts: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Veggie Patty Melts: Substitute the beef patty with a veggie burger.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to the secret sauce.
Cooking Notes
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Handle the ground beef gently to keep the patties tender.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly sliced onions and high-quality cheese make a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with pickles or coleslaw on the side.
- Pair with sweet potato fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Toast the Bread Lightly: This prevents the sandwich from becoming soggy.
- Double the Sauce: Make extra secret sauce for dipping or future use.
Tips for the Best Patty Melts
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and a perfect sear.
- Let the patties rest for a few minutes before assembling to retain juices.
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Serving size: 1 patty melt)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 950mg
FAQs
1. Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the secret sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
2. Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Sourdough or whole wheat bread works well too.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Conclusion
These patty melts with secret sauce are a delicious twist on a classic diner favorite. With juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a tangy secret sauce, every bite is a flavor explosion. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!
Let me know if you need more recipes or adjustments! 😊