Introduction
The Patty Melt is a classic diner-style sandwich that combines the best of a burger and a grilled cheese. Juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melted cheese are layered between slices of buttery toasted bread, creating a rich and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter (for onions)
8 slices rye or sandwich bread
4 tablespoons butter, softened (for bread)
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices cheddar cheese
Optional:
Dijon mustard
Pickles for serving
Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions
Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until soft and golden brown.
Remove onions from skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Patties
Season ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Form into thin patties slightly larger than the bread.
Cook patties in the same skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through.
Remove patties and drain excess grease if needed.
3. Assemble the Patty Melt
Butter one side of each bread slice.
Place bread butter-side down in a skillet.
Layer Swiss cheese, beef patty, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, and top with another slice of bread (butter-side up).
4. Grill the Sandwich
Cook over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
Press gently with a spatula while cooking.
Description
The Patty Melt is rich, savory, and comforting, featuring a juicy beef patty, sweet caramelized onions, and perfectly melted cheese. The toasted bread adds crunch, while the warm filling delivers classic diner-style flavor in every bite.
Tips
Cook onions low and slow for best sweetness.
Use thin patties for even cooking.
Use medium-low heat to prevent burning.
Cover the pan briefly to help melt cheese.
Serve immediately for best texture.
Variations
Classic Diner Style: Add a spoon of special sauce.
Spicy Melt: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
Mushroom Melt: Add sautéed mushrooms.
Turkey Melt: Substitute beef with ground turkey.
Texas Style: Use thick toast and extra cheese.
Correction
If bread browns too fast:
Lower heat and cook longer.
If cheese does not melt:
Cover skillet briefly to trap heat.
If patties shrink:
Make patties slightly larger than bread.
Enjoy
Enjoy the Patty Melt hot and fresh with fries, onion rings, or a simple salad. This classic sandwich is hearty, flavorful, and always satisfying.