Description
A diner classic, the patty melt is a perfect blend of juicy beef, gooey Swiss cheese, and caramelized onions between golden, crispy rye bread. Comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices rye bread
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Thousand Island dressing or mustard for serving
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, for 20–30 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare the beef patties: Divide ground beef into two portions, shape into flat patties, and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned on the outside and cooked to your desired doneness. Set aside.
- Assemble the sandwich: Spread butter on one side of each rye bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with a second slice of bread, butter side out.
- Grill the sandwiches: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and grill for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot: Slice in half, and if desired, add a side of Thousand Island dressing or mustard for dipping. Enjoy your perfect patty melt!
Notes
- Patience is Key for Caramelized Onions: Cook the onions low and slow to achieve their signature sweetness and golden-brown color. Don’t rush this step—it’s essential for the perfect patty melt flavor.
- Choose the Right Bread: Rye bread is classic for its tangy flavor and sturdy texture, but sourdough or Texas toast can work if you prefer. Just ensure the bread can hold up to the juicy beef and melted cheese.
- Butter the Bread Generously: For that golden, crispy exterior, spread butter evenly on the outside of the bread before grilling. This step is crucial to achieving the perfect crunch!
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min