Classic Patty Melt

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A diner favorite, this patty melt features juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and crispy, buttery rye bread. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner!
Yield
4 sandwiches
Ingredients
For the Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, for sweetness)
For Assembly:
- 8 slices rye bread
- 8 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar, if preferred)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes until golden brown. Add sugar during the last 5 minutes if desired. Remove onions from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Patties
In a bowl, mix ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties slightly larger than the bread slices.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Using the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. Layer 1 slice of Swiss cheese, 1 cooked patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese on the unbuttered side of 4 slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
Step 5: Grill the Patty Melts
Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Kitchen Tips
- Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese with cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
- Extra Flavor: Spread a layer of Dijon mustard or Russian dressing on the bread for added flavor.
- Make Ahead: Caramelize onions up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate for quick assembly.
Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich)
Calories, 520 | Protein, 29g | Carbohydrates, 35g | Fiber, 3g | Net Carbohydrates, 32g | Fat, 28g | Saturated Fat, 13g | Cholesterol, 90mg | Sodium, 800mg | Sugars, 5g | Glycemic Index, Medium
Enjoy the classic comfort of a patty melt, with all the flavors of a diner classic in your own kitchen!