Patty melts are a timeless comfort food favorite, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and nostalgic. This diner staple combines crispy, buttery rye bread, juicy seasoned beef patties, gooey melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions — all elevated by a tangy secret sauce that adds an unforgettable flavor boost. Best of all, you can easily whip up this crowd-pleaser right at home!
Serving Suggestions
Pair your patty melts with crispy fries, a fresh side salad, or even sweet potato fries for a deliciously balanced meal. A crunchy pickle spear on the side is the ideal tangy complement to this rich and hearty sandwich.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 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
Secret Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Make the Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, and Worcestershire sauce. Set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized (about 15-20 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Patties: In the same skillet, cook patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and keep warm.
- Assemble the Patty Melts: Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Place 4 slices, butter-side down, on a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Layer each with Swiss cheese, a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, cheddar cheese, then top with the remaining bread slices butter-side up.
- Grill: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let rest briefly before slicing in half. Serve immediately with the secret sauce either on the side or drizzled on top.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter option, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or mozzarella for extra meltiness.
- Vegetarian? Use a plant-based burger patty and your favorite vegan cheese.
- Don’t skip the secret sauce—it’s the star ingredient that sets this patty melt apart!
Enjoy this classic patty melt recipe anytime you want a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful meal without the fuss.