Description
Patty melts are the ultimate diner classic, combining juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a perfectly toasted bread. Paired with a tangy and savory secret sauce, this sandwich is comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients
Scale
Serves 4
- For the patties:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the caramelized onions:
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the secret sauce:
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle relish (sweet or dill)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- For assembly:
- 8 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 8 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for grilling the sandwiches)
Instructions
- Prepare the caramelized onions:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar (if using).
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Reduce heat if they brown too quickly. Set aside.
- Make the patties:
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties about the size of your bread slices.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the secret sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the patty melts:
- Spread a thin layer of secret sauce on one side of each bread slice.
- On half of the bread slices, layer a slice of cheese, a cooked patty, some caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with another bread slice, sauce side facing the filling.
- Grill the sandwiches:
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.
- Grill each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Slice the patty melts in half and serve immediately with extra secret sauce for dipping, and perhaps a side of fries or a salad.
Notes
- For an extra crispy crust, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on the buttered bread before grilling.
- Use your favorite cheese, like provolone or pepper jack, for a twist on the classic flavor.
- The secret sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.