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Patty Melts

Patty Melts

Patty Melts are a classic American comfort sandwich combining juicy, seasoned ground beef patties, melty Swiss cheese, and sweet caramelized onions between perfectly toasted rye or sourdough bread. This easy-to-make recipe offers a delightful texture contrast and rich, savory flavor, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or any meal craving classic comfort food with customizable options.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean recommended)
  • 4 slices rye or sourdough bread
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for onions and toasting bread)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Optional Variations & Toppings

  • Sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese in place of Swiss
  • Plant-based patties or grilled portobello mushrooms for vegetarian version
  • Jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick
  • Whole wheat bread instead of rye or sourdough
  • Sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon as extra toppings

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Slice yellow onions thinly. In a skillet over low heat, cook with a bit of butter slowly until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 20-30 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness.
  2. Form and Season the Patties: Shape the ground beef into thin patties slightly larger than your bread slices. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and optionally Worcestershire sauce for enhanced savory flavor.
  3. Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and juicy but fully cooked through.
  4. Assemble the Sandwich: Place one cooked patty on a slice of bread, top with a generous layer of the caramelized onions and a slice of Swiss cheese, then cover with a second slice of bread.
  5. Toast and Melt: Butter the outside of both bread slices. Grill the sandwich on medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden and crisp and cheese inside is melted, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Notes

  • Keep patties thin to ensure even cooking and better layering inside the sandwich.
  • Caramelize onions low and slow for best sweetness and depth.
  • Use butter instead of oil to get a rich, golden crust on the bread.
  • Press the sandwich gently while grilling to meld flavors and help cheese melt faster.
  • Let the Patty Melt rest a minute after cooking to prevent juices and cheese from oozing out excessively when cutting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Patty Melt, sandwich, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, ground beef, comfort food, quick meal, easy recipe