The Ultimate Patty Melt is a delicious twist on the classic burger, featuring juicy beef patties, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and a creamy, tangy secret sauce, all sandwiched between buttery, toasted bread. It’s the perfect combination of savory and indulgent flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Patty Melt:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for the juiciest patties)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 slices of rye bread (or Texas toast for a thicker option)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened (for toasting the bread)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or American cheese, if preferred)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Secret Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. Set aside.
- Make the Beef Patties:
- Season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Divide it into 4 equal portions and form each portion into a patty slightly larger than the bread slices (the patties will shrink slightly as they cook).
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned on the outside. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 12-15 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and soft. Season with a pinch of salt to help them caramelize.
- Toast the Bread:
- While the onions are caramelizing, spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- In a separate skillet or griddle, toast the bread slices, buttered side down, until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Assemble the Patty Melt:
- Once the bread is toasted, spread a generous amount of the secret sauce on the non-buttered side of each slice of bread.
- Place one beef patty on the non-buttered side of two slices of bread. Top each patty with a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a handful of caramelized onions.
- Place the other slice of bread on top, buttered side facing up.
- Grill the Patty Melt:
- Return the assembled patty melts to the skillet (or griddle) over medium heat. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread toast to a golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the skillet, cut the patty melts in half diagonally, and serve immediately with your favorite sides like fries, chips, or a pickle.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a side of crispy French fries, onion rings, or a simple salad.
- A cold beer or a soda makes a perfect drink pairing for this indulgent meal.
The Ultimate Patty Melt with Secret Sauce combines savory beef, melty cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a creamy sauce for a rich, satisfying sandwich that’s sure to become a favorite!