Description
This classic Patty Melt recipe features juicy ground beef patties layered with Swiss cheese and sweet caramelized onions, all sandwiched between slices of rye bread spread with a tangy secret sauce. Grilled to golden perfection on the stovetop, this hearty American diner-style sandwich delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 8 slices rye bread
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Secret Sauce Ingredients
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles or relish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of paprika
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the thinly sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring often, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes. This process brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the sandwich.
- Prepare the Secret Sauce: While the onions cook, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, finely chopped pickles or relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika in a small bowl. Set the sauce aside to let the flavors meld.
- Shape and Season Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and form thin patties about the size of the bread slices. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper for balanced flavor.
- Cook the Patties: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef patties for 3–4 minutes on each side until they reach your preferred level of doneness. Remove the patties and set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread the secret sauce on one side of each slice of rye bread. Add a slice of Swiss cheese, then place a cooked beef patty on top. Spoon caramelized onions over the patty, add another slice of Swiss cheese, and finish with the second slice of bread, sauce side in.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Butter the outside of the sandwiches if desired for extra crispiness. Grill each sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Remove from skillet, slice in half if preferred, and serve hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- American or cheddar cheese can be substituted for Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
- The secret sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Butter the sandwich outsides before grilling to achieve a crispier crust.
