Easy Patty Melts Recipe

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These Easy Patty Melts are a perfect fusion of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich, featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese, and buttery toasted rye bread. This diner classic is simple to make at home and is packed with rich, savory flavors that make every bite irresistible! Whether you’re craving a comforting lunch, a quick weeknight dinner, or a nostalgic bite reminiscent of classic American diners, this recipe has you covered. Serve it with crispy fries, a side salad, or a bowl of tomato soup for the ultimate meal. With just a few pantry staples, you can create this delicious, melty, and crispy sandwich in under 30 minutes!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Serving Size: 1 patty melt
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)

For the Patty Melts:

  • 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough for a twist)
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, if preferred)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened

For Serving (Optional):

  • Dill pickles
  • French fries or potato chips
  • Russian or Thousand Island dressing

Instructions

Making the Caramelized Onions:

  1. Heat the pan: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil.
  2. Sauté the onions: Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes.
  3. Caramelize: Sprinkle with salt and optional sugar, then continue cooking for another 10 minutes until golden brown and soft. Remove from heat and set aside.

Preparing the Beef Patties:

  1. Season the beef: In a bowl, mix ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
  2. Shape the patties: Divide into 4 equal portions and flatten into thin, oval-shaped patties (slightly larger than the bread slices, as they will shrink when cooked).
  3. Cook the patties: In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.

Assembling the Patty Melts:

  1. Butter the bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
  2. Layer the sandwich: On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, place 1 slice of Swiss cheese, a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with another slice of bread (buttered side facing out).

Grilling the Patty Melts:

  1. Preheat the pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
  2. Toast the sandwiches: Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Serve immediately: Slice in half and enjoy with a side of pickles, fries, or dressing for dipping.

Tips for the Best Patty Melts

  • Use Quality Beef: An 80/20 ground beef blend provides the best balance of juiciness and flavor.
  • Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Cooking them low and slow brings out their natural sweetness.
  • Butter the Bread Evenly: This ensures even browning and a crispy exterior.
  • Cook on Medium-Low Heat: Too high of a heat will burn the bread before the cheese melts.

Creative Variations

  • Spicy Patty Melt: Add pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce inside the sandwich.
  • Mushroom Swiss Patty Melt: Sauté mushrooms and add them along with the onions.
  • BBQ Bacon Patty Melt: Add crispy bacon and a drizzle of barbecue sauce.
  • Turkey Patty Melt: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.

FAQs

Can I make patty melts ahead of time? Yes! Cook the patties and caramelized onions in advance. Assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving. What’s the best cheese for a patty melt? Swiss is traditional, but cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack work great too. Can I use different bread? Absolutely! Sourdough, Texas toast, or whole wheat bread are all great alternatives. How do I store leftovers? Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture. These Easy Patty Melts are crispy, cheesy, and full of bold flavors. Whether for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, they’re the perfect comfort food. Try them today and enjoy this classic diner favorite at home!

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