Description

Few sandwiches satisfy like a classic patty melt. This diner favorite blends the best of a burger and grilled cheese, featuring crispy, buttery rye bread, juicy beef patties, gooey melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions. The secret ingredient? A tangy, creamy sauce that ties everything together. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or a nostalgic treat, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Patty Melt

1 lb ground beef
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 large onion, thinly sliced
8 slices rye bread
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices cheddar cheese
Butter, for grilling

For the Secret Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

Caramelize the Onions
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little butter.
- Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.
Prepare the Beef Patties
- Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape into oval patties slightly larger than your bread slices.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- In the same pan, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
Make the Secret Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, and Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
- On the unbuttered side of four slices, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, a slice of cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of secret sauce.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
Grill the Patty Melts
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook each sandwich for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a minute before slicing in half.

Notes

Bread Choice: Rye bread is traditional, but sourdough or Texas toast also work well.
Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicier twist, or use Gruyère for a richer flavor.
Make-Ahead Tip: Caramelized onions and secret sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with fries, coleslaw, pickles, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Sandwiches
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: American