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

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

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.