Classic Patty Melt Recipe

Name: Classic Patty Melt Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Pinch of sugar (optional); 4 slices rye or sourdough bread; 4 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons butter (for toasting)

Isabella

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The classic patty melt Recipe combines a juicy burger patty, perfectly caramelized onions, and melted cheese, all grilled between slices of golden, buttery rye bread. It’s a diner favorite that delivers comfort food at its finest, perfect for a quick lunch or hearty dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this patty melt recipe because it takes everything I enjoy about a burger and transforms it into a crisp, cheesy sandwich. The caramelized onions add sweetness, the melty cheese brings creaminess, and the toasted bread delivers the perfect crunch. It’s incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and feels like something straight out of a nostalgic diner menu.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Patty:

1 lb (450 g) ground beef

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Onions:

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

Pinch of sugar (optional, for caramelizing)

For the Sandwich:

4 slices of rye or sourdough bread

4 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons butter (for toasting the bread)

Directions

Prepare the Patty:

In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into 2 large patties, shaping them slightly larger than the bread slices since they’ll shrink while cooking.

Cook the Onions:

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir occasionally, allowing them to cook until soft, golden, and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. For an extra hint of sweetness, add a pinch of sugar during the process. Once ready, set the onions aside.

Cook the Patties:

Using the same skillet, cook the beef patties over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked to your preferred doneness. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.

Assemble the Patty Melt:

Butter one side of each bread slice.

Place two slices, buttered side down, on a cutting board.

On each slice, layer a slice of cheese, one beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.

Grill the Sandwiches:

Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill the assembled sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula to achieve an even golden-brown crust. Cook until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy.

Serve:

Slice the patty melts in half and serve immediately with your favorite side, such as fries, pickles, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 large patty melts

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap Swiss cheese for American, provolone, or your favorite melting cheese.

Extra Toppings: Add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or a slice of tomato for a flavorful twist.

Bread Choices: While rye bread is traditional, sourdough or Texas toast works beautifully too.

Spicy Kick: Spread a bit of spicy mayo, mustard, or horseradish sauce on the bread for added heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover patty melts can be wrapped in foil or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: For best results, reheat the patty melt in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts again. Alternatively, use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy.

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FAQs

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

To keep the bread crispy, ensure the skillet or griddle is preheated before grilling the sandwich. Cooking at medium heat and using butter helps create a golden, crunchy crust.

Can I make the patty melts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties and caramelize the onions ahead of time. Assemble and grill the sandwiches when ready to serve for the best results.

What’s the best cheese for a patty melt?

Swiss cheese is the classic choice, but cheddar, American, or provolone also melt well and add great flavor.

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While rye bread is traditional, sourdough, white bread, or even Texas toast are delicious alternatives.

How can I make this patty melt healthier?

To lighten up the recipe, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, opt for whole-grain bread, and reduce the amount of butter used for grilling.

Conclusion

This classic patty melt recipe is a timeless favorite that combines rich, juicy flavors with simple, comforting ingredients. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for when I want a diner-style meal at home. Whether I’m serving it for lunch or dinner, this patty melt never fails to impress.

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