Introduction
A patty melt is a classic American sandwich that combines the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese. Featuring a juicy beef patty, caramelized onions, and melted Swiss cheese sandwiched between slices of toasted rye bread, this indulgent sandwich is packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for lunch or dinner, a patty melt is comfort food at its finest and is sure to satisfy any craving for a hearty, savory meal.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juicier patties)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
8 slices of rye bread
8 slices of Swiss cheese (or a combination of Swiss and cheddar)
4 tablespoons butter, divided
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard, for serving
Instructions:
Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water.
Season with a pinch of salt and set aside.
Prepare the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape each portion into a thin patty that is slightly larger than the bread slices, as the patties will shrink when cooked.
Season both sides of the patties with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
Cook the Beef Patties:
In the same skillet used for the onions, cook the patties over medium-high heat until they are cooked to your desired level of doneness, about 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
Place four slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Top each slice with a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, a generous portion of caramelized onions, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Cover each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Grill the Sandwiches:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches in batches if necessary, pressing down lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Serve:
Slice the patty melts in half and serve immediately. If desired, add a dollop of Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard inside each sandwich before serving.
Conclusion
The patty melt is a beloved sandwich that brings together the best of a burger and a grilled cheese, resulting in a savory, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of juicy beef, sweet caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese sandwiched between crispy rye bread is simply irresistible.
Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a casual lunch, patty melts are sure to please. Pair them with a side of fries, a simple salad, or a bowl of soup for a complete and comforting meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture of this classic American sandwich, and make it a regular part of your culinary repertoire.