The classic patty melt is a delicious comfort food that perfectly combines two fan favorites: burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. This classic dish features juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melted Swiss cheese, all sandwiched between two slices of toasted rye or sourdough bread. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, the patty melt delivers a satisfying and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to make a classic patty melt. First and foremost, it is incredibly satisfying. The combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and toasted bread is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make! You can whip up this recipe in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Additionally, the flavor of the patty melt is out of this world. The smoky paprika in the dressing, the sweetness of the caramelized onions, and the savory goodness of the beef patties create a fantastic taste experience. Not to mention, you can customize it with your favorite toppings or sides, making it a versatile meal choice.
How to Make Classic Patty Melt
Making a classic patty melt is straightforward. Follow along with this step-by-step guide to create your own delicious patty melts at home.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon grated onion
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- ⅛ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 large onion cut in half and then sliced
- 1 lb. ground beef
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 8 slices rye bread or sourdough
- 8 thick slices Swiss cheese
- Butter
- Pickles (optional)
Directions:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, grated onion, pickle relish, and paprika.
Place 2 tablespoons butter in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown, which will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally. Once golden, plate the onions and cover to keep warm. For extra caramelization, feel free to cook longer.
In a separate bowl, mix the ground beef with the Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form patties. Preheat the skillet and cook the patties over medium heat until they are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking.
Spread a little more than 1 tablespoon of the dressing on each slice of bread. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each slice of bread. For four of the slices, add the browned onions and one beef patty. Top these with the remaining slices to form four sandwiches.
Butter the top side of the bread and place it butter-side down in the skillet over medium-low heat. Cook until golden brown. Butter the other side of the bread before flipping it over. Flip and brown the other side until golden brown and the cheese has melted. Covering the skillet with aluminum foil can speed up this process.
How to Serve Classic Patty Melt
Serve your classic patty melt hot off the skillet. You can cut them in half for easier eating. Consider adding a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or a fresh salad to balance the meal. For an extra kick, serve with pickles on the side or add them directly to the sandwiches.
How to Store Classic Patty Melt
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is straightforward. To keep your patty melts fresh, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you are ready to reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to warm them up until the cheese is melted again.
Tips to Make Classic Patty Melt
- For the best flavor, use freshly grated onion in the dressing.
- Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; they add a lot of flavor to the sandwich.
- Choose good quality ground beef for juicy patties.
- Don’t skip the butter on the bread while cooking; it gives the sandwich that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Feel free to mix up the cheeses! While Swiss is traditional, you could also try cheddar or a blend.
Variations
While the classic patty melt recipe is delicious as is, you can always try variations based on your taste. Here are a few suggestions:
- Add Bacon: Crispy bacon can add a savory crunch to your patty melt.
- Spicy Version: Include jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for a veggie burger or grilled portobello mushrooms.
- Different Bread: Experiment with sourdough, whole wheat, or even brioche for a different flavor.
Classic Patty Melt
Equipment
- Skillet or Griddle
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 large onion thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp butter for caramelizing onions
- 1/2 lb ground beef 80/20 preferred
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 slices rye bread or marble rye
- 4 slices Swiss cheese or American cheese
- 2 tbsp butter softened, for toasting bread
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized (about 10–12 minutes). Set aside.
- Form the ground beef into two thin patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until nicely browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place 2 slices, buttered side down, in the skillet. Top each with a slice of cheese, a patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and another slice of bread (buttered side up).
- Grill the sandwiches over medium heat until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, about 2–3 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for an even toast.
- Remove from skillet, slice in half, and serve hot with pickles or chips on the side.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make patty melts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cooked patties and caramelized onions in advance. Just assemble and grill them when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze patty melts?
Yes! You can freeze assembled but uncooked patty melts. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What can I serve with patty melts?
Patty melts pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad. You could also serve them with a creamy soup for a heartier meal.
4. How do I know when the beef patties are cooked through?
For ground beef, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) to be considered safe to eat. A meat thermometer will help ensure they are cooked properly.
By following this guide, you can create a classic patty melt that’s not only delicious but also reflects your personal cooking style. Enjoy this tasty meal that blends the best elements of burgers and grilled cheese into one delightful dish.
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