The patty melt is an iconic American comfort food, blending the best of a juicy burger with the satisfaction of a grilled cheese sandwich. Traditionally crafted with a hearty beef patty, melted cheese, and caramelized onions nestled between slices of toasted rye bread, the patty melt offers a satisfying bite that’s rich in flavor and texture. This recipe, however, takes the classic up a notch by introducing a “secret sauce” that adds a unique tang and creamy richness, enhancing each bite with an extra layer of taste.
The beauty of a patty melt lies in its perfect balance: the juiciness of the seasoned beef, the melty goodness of Swiss and cheddar cheeses, the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions, and the satisfying crunch of golden, buttery rye bread. Paired with the creamy, tangy sauce, this patty melt becomes a crave-worthy twist on an American classic, sure to elevate any meal into something truly memorable.
Ingredient Overview
Each ingredient in this patty melt recipe is carefully chosen to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Starting with ground beef, an 80/20 blend is ideal for achieving a juicy patty that holds flavor without drying out during cooking. This fat ratio ensures that the patty remains tender and flavorful, delivering the satisfying richness that’s key to a good patty melt.
Caramelized onions play a central role in adding sweetness and depth. Cooking them low and slow brings out their natural sugars, complementing the savory beef and adding a touch of complexity to every bite.
Rye bread is a classic choice for patty melts, providing a subtly tangy, earthy flavor that enhances the sandwich. However, for those who prefer, sourdough or whole wheat are viable substitutes.
Swiss and cheddar cheeses each contribute unique flavors—Swiss for its creaminess and cheddar for a sharp, tangy contrast—perfectly melted together. Finally, the secret sauce combines mayo, ketchup, pickle relish, and Worcestershire sauce for a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet accent that pulls all these elements together beautifully.
Step 1: Making the Secret Sauce
To prepare the secret sauce, start by combining ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of sweet pickle relish, and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Use a whisk or a spoon to blend the ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. The Worcestershire sauce adds a hint of savory depth, while the relish brings a touch of sweetness that balances the tang of ketchup and the richness of mayonnaise.
For the best flavor, let the sauce rest for 10-15 minutes after mixing. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive taste profile. You can even make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, which will intensify its flavor. Stir the sauce well before serving to maintain its smooth texture, ready to add a delicious zing to each bite of your patty melt.
Step 2: Caramelizing the Onions
Caramelized onions are essential for that sweet-savory balance in a patty melt. To start, thinly slice one large onion. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the pan. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and stir to coat them evenly in the butter. Cooking at medium heat is key to caramelizing without burning, so avoid rushing this step.
Stir the onions occasionally over the next 15-20 minutes, watching for them to soften and gradually turn golden brown. If they begin to stick or brown too quickly, add a small splash of water or broth, which will help deglaze the pan and add extra moisture without affecting the flavor. The key here is patience—resist the urge to increase the heat, as low and slow cooking brings out the onions’ natural sugars, creating a rich, caramelized flavor that complements the savory beef.
Once the onions are a deep golden brown, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Properly caramelized onions will be soft, sweet, and full of flavor, adding an irresistible layer to your patty melt.
Step 3: Forming and Cooking the Beef Patties
To begin, divide 1 pound of ground beef into four equal portions. For best results, form each portion into thin patties that are slightly larger than your bread slices, as the patties will shrink slightly while cooking. Press each patty into a flat, even shape, but avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a tougher texture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, which will enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, allowing it to come up to temperature before adding the patties. Place the patties in the skillet, spacing them apart to avoid overcrowding, which helps to achieve a good sear. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, until a crust begins to form. Then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the second side, adjusting the time based on your preferred level of doneness.
If you like your patty medium, aim for a cooking time of around 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. For a well-done patty, extend the cooking time by a minute or two on each side. A meat thermometer can help ensure accuracy, with 160°F being ideal for fully cooked ground beef. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and allow them to rest briefly. This will keep the patties juicy and flavorful when assembled into the sandwich.
Step 4: Assembling the Patty Melts
Assembling the patty melts is a layering process that brings together all the flavors in perfect harmony. Begin by laying out eight slices of rye bread. On four of the slices, place a slice of Swiss cheese; on the other four slices, add a slice of cheddar cheese. This double layer of cheese ensures a melty, creamy texture and balances the mild flavor of Swiss with the tang of cheddar.
Place one cooked beef patty on each of the Swiss cheese slices, followed by a generous portion of caramelized onions. Top each patty with the cheddar-covered slice of bread, pressing gently to hold everything in place.
To prevent the sandwich from falling apart during cooking, ensure the layers are evenly distributed, and the cheese slices are close to the edges of the bread, as they act as a “glue” when melted. This layering approach gives each bite the full range of flavors while keeping the sandwich intact during grilling.
Step 5: Grilling the Patty Melts to Perfection
Now it’s time to toast the assembled patty melts to golden, melty perfection. Wipe out your skillet and add a tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Grill each sandwich for about 2-3 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula to help the bread achieve an even, golden crust and to encourage the cheese to melt fully.
Toasting at a moderate temperature ensures the bread becomes crispy without burning, while allowing enough time for the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld. For extra crispiness, you can add a bit more butter to the skillet as you flip the sandwiches, which will also enhance the rich, buttery taste of the toasted rye bread.
You’ll know the patty melts are ready when the bread is golden brown and the cheese is visibly melted. Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest briefly on a cutting board to make slicing easier. This final toasting step transforms the ingredients into a cohesive, mouthwatering sandwich that’s crispy on the outside, with a warm, gooey center of cheese, beef, and onions.
Step 6: Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Once your patty melts are ready, slice each one in half for easy handling. Serve them with a side of the secret sauce, either for dipping or spread on the inside of each sandwich for added flavor. This creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the rich flavors of the patty melt, adding a delightful twist to each bite.
For a complete meal, consider pairing your patty melt with classic sides like crispy French fries, coleslaw, or a light side salad. These sides add balance to the richness of the sandwich and bring variety to the plate. Alternatively, serve with sweet potato fries or pickles for a flavorful contrast. This patty melt with secret sauce is versatile enough for a casual lunch or a comfort-filled dinner, perfect for savoring with friends and family.
FAQs on Making Patty Melts
What’s the best beef-to-fat ratio for patty melts?
For the juiciest, most flavorful patty melts, an 80/20 beef-to-fat ratio is ideal. This balance of 80% lean meat to 20% fat provides a moist, tender texture while preventing the patties from drying out as they cook. The added fat content enhances the richness and helps the patty stay juicy, creating a mouthwatering experience with each bite.
Can I use other types of bread?
Rye bread is traditional for patty melts, thanks to its hearty texture and slight tang. However, other bread types can work well too. Sourdough is a great option, offering a chewy texture and subtle sour notes. Whole wheat bread is another alternative for those wanting a heartier, more nutritious base. Avoid overly soft breads like white sandwich bread, as they may not hold up well to grilling and the juicy patty.
Why do the onions need to be caramelized?
Caramelizing the onions is a key step in building deep, rich flavors. Slowly cooking the onions over low heat allows their natural sugars to release, creating a sweet, golden flavor that complements the savory beef and creamy cheese. This process brings out a depth that raw or simply sautéed onions wouldn’t provide, adding a delightful contrast to the sandwich’s other flavors.
Is there an alternative to Swiss and cheddar cheese?
Absolutely! Swiss and cheddar provide a great combination of creamy and tangy flavors, but other cheeses can work just as well. American cheese melts beautifully and offers a classic, creamy texture, while provolone is mild and smooth. For a spicier twist, try pepper jack cheese, which adds a subtle kick to each bite.
How do I keep the patty melt from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, ensure that the caramelized onions are well-drained before assembling the sandwich. Using moderate butter prevents the bread from becoming overly greasy while still allowing for a crispy, golden crust. Grilling over medium heat rather than high also gives the bread time to toast without absorbing too much moisture from the fillings.
Can I make patty melts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare some components in advance to save time. The secret sauce can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge. You can also caramelize the onions up to two days in advance and keep them refrigerated. When ready to serve, assemble and grill the sandwiches fresh to keep the bread crispy and cheese melty.
What’s the best way to reheat patty melts?
The best way to reheat patty melts is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan and cook each side for a couple of minutes until heated through, which will help maintain the crispiness. Alternatively, use a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread soggy.
Can I make a vegetarian version of patty melts?
Absolutely! You can substitute the beef patty with a plant-based burger, such as Beyond Meat or a black bean burger, for a vegetarian-friendly option. The caramelized onions, cheeses, and secret sauce all complement vegetarian patties nicely, creating a similar savory, satisfying experience.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce for the secret sauce?
If Worcestershire sauce isn’t available, you can use a small amount of soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar to achieve a similar depth of flavor. Both options add a savory, slightly tangy profile to the sauce, enhancing its overall taste.
What side dishes go well with patty melts?
Patty melts pair well with a variety of side dishes. Classic choices include French fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, consider serving with a crisp side salad or coleslaw. Pickles or a tangy dill pickle spear also make a great side, cutting through the richness of the patty melt with a refreshing bite.
Can I freeze patty melts?
Yes, you can freeze assembled (but ungrilled) patty melts. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store in a freezer-safe bag. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator, then grill as usual. This method works well for meal prepping and ensures that you can enjoy patty melts on a busy day.
How do I get the perfect cheese melt without burning the bread?
To achieve the ideal cheese melt while keeping the bread golden, use medium heat and cover the skillet with a lid for the first minute of cooking on each side. This allows the cheese to melt from the heat inside without over-toasting the bread. You can also grate the cheese instead of using slices for faster melting.
What type of onions work best for caramelizing?
Yellow onions are a popular choice for caramelizing because they have a balanced sweetness and savory flavor. Red onions can also work, adding a slightly more intense flavor. Avoid using sweet onions like Vidalia, as they can become overly sugary when caramelized.
How can I make patty melts healthier?
To make patty melts healthier, consider using leaner ground beef, or even ground turkey for the patties. Opt for whole wheat or sprouted grain bread and add more veggies, such as spinach or tomato slices. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese variety if preferred.
Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
Description
These patty melts combine juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melted Swiss and cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between crispy rye bread. The creamy, tangy secret sauce adds an irresistible final touch.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 slices rye bread
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Butter, for grilling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Secret Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth, then set aside to let the flavors blend.
2️⃣ Caramelize the Onions:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Form and Cook the Beef Patties:
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions, forming thin patties slightly larger than the bread slices (to account for shrinkage). Season both sides with salt and pepper.
In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your preferred doneness. Set aside.
4️⃣ Assemble the Patty Melts:
Lay out the rye bread slices. Place Swiss cheese on four slices and cheddar cheese on the other four. Top each Swiss cheese slice with a beef patty, then add a generous portion of caramelized onions. Place the cheddar-topped bread slice on top to complete each sandwich.
5️⃣ Grill the Patty Melts:
Wipe out the skillet and add a tablespoon of butter. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet (working in batches if necessary). Grill for 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat, pressing down gently with a spatula until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted. Add more butter as needed for even toasting.
6️⃣ Serve with Secret Sauce:
Once the patty melts are golden and the cheese is melted, remove them from the skillet. Let rest for a minute, then cut each sandwich in half. Serve with a side of the secret sauce for dipping or spread it directly on the sandwich for added flavor.
Notes
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to switch up the cheeses if desired. Provolone or pepper jack work well, too.
- Onion Shortcut: If you’re short on time, try using pre-cooked caramelized onions or lightly sautéed onions.