The classic patty melt is a timeless diner favorite that combines the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. This delicious sandwich features juicy ground beef patties, melted Swiss cheese, and caramelized onions, all sandwiched between slices of crispy rye bread. It’s a perfect comfort food that’s easy to make at home. Let’s get started on making this classic patty melt!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 8 slices of rye bread
- 8 thin slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Thousand Island dressing, for serving (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the large yellow onion.
- Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
- Form the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape each portion into a thin patty slightly larger than the slices of rye bread, as they will shrink during cooking. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper. If using, sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce on the patties.
- Cook the Patties: In the same skillet used for the onions, cook the beef patties over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Patty Melts
- Butter the Bread: Spread the remaining softened butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place 4 slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean work surface. Top each slice with a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, a portion of caramelized onions, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
Step 4: Cook the Patty Melts
- Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Press down lightly with a spatula to help the cheese melt evenly.
- Cook in Batches: If your skillet is not large enough to accommodate all four sandwiches at once, cook them in batches, keeping the finished sandwiches warm in a low oven if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Slice the patty melts in half and serve hot. If desired, serve with Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.
- Optional Garnish: Garnish with pickles or a side of coleslaw for a classic diner experience.
Cooking Notes
- Onions: Caramelizing the onions slowly over medium heat brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deep, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef and cheese.
- Beef Patties: Using an 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures that the patties stay juicy and flavorful. Press the patties thinly and evenly for the best results.
- Cheese: Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can substitute with cheddar, provolone, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Patty Melt: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños to the sandwich for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Patty Melt: Sauté some mushrooms along with the onions and add them to the sandwich for an earthy flavor.
- Bacon Patty Melt: Add crispy bacon strips to the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version, use keto bread and ensure that all other ingredients are low in carbs. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables instead of fries.
Low Carb Version
For a lower-carb option, use a low-carb bread or serve the patty melts in lettuce wraps. This will reduce the carb content while maintaining the delicious flavors.
The classic patty melt is a delicious and comforting sandwich that combines juicy beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions between crispy slices of rye bread. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, bringing the flavors of a classic diner into your home. Customize it with your favorite variations and enjoy this timeless favorite with family and friends. Happy cooking!
