Description
A classic American diner favorite, the Patty Melt features juicy seasoned beef patties, melted Swiss cheese, and sweet caramelized onions sandwiched between crispy rye bread slices. Cooked on the stovetop to achieve a golden, crispy crust, this comforting sandwich is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Patties
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Sandwich
- 4 slices rye bread
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: Thousand Island dressing or mayonnaise for serving
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Once done, set the onions aside.
- Form and Season Patties: Shape the ground beef into two equal patties slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides of each patty evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance flavor.
- Cook Patties: Using the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until fully cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the patties from the skillet and wipe the pan clean to prepare for grilling the sandwiches.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Lay out the rye bread slices. On two slices, place a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a cooked beef patty, a generous layer of caramelized onions, another slice of Swiss cheese, and top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices.
- Grill the Sandwiches: Melt a little butter in the skillet over medium heat. Grill each assembled sandwich for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts nicely, applying gentle pressure with a spatula for even grilling.
- Serve: Serve the hot patty melts warm with optional Thousand Island dressing or mayonnaise for an added creamy tanginess.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet helps achieve a crispy crust on the bread.
- Swiss cheese can be substituted with cheddar or American cheese based on preference.
- For a tangy twist, consider adding pickles or mustard inside the sandwich.
