Ava McKenney
There’s something incredibly comforting about a Classic Patty Melt. This iconic sandwich, combining juicy beef patties, gooey melted cheese, and caramelized onions nestled between slices of toasted rye bread, is the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is all about bringing diner-style goodness to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Patty Melt
The beauty of a patty melt lies in its simplicity, yet every bite is packed with rich flavors. From the savory beef to the buttery, crisp bread and the sweetness of caramelized onions, it’s an unforgettable sandwich. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize—switch up the cheese, bread, or even add extra toppings like mushrooms or a spicy sauce.
Ingredients for the Perfect Classic Patty Melt
The key to an amazing patty melt is using quality ingredients and a few essential components. Here’s everything you need:
- Ground Beef: Choose an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- Rye Bread: Traditional rye bread provides the distinctive flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef and cheese. Sourdough or whole wheat are great alternatives if you prefer.
- Caramelized Onions: Sweet and golden, these add depth and a touch of sweetness to the sandwich.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar and Swiss are the classic combination, offering a blend of sharpness and creaminess that melts perfectly.
- Butter: For achieving that golden, crisp exterior on the bread.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder elevate the patty’s flavor.
Step-by-Step to make the Ultimate Patty Melt
Making a patty melt is as straightforward as it is satisfying. With a few simple steps, you’ll have this diner favorite ready in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions
Start by heating a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a generous pat of butter and sliced onions. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt to help them sweat. Stir occasionally, cooking the onions until they’re golden and caramelized—this can take 20-30 minutes. Set aside.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Beef Patties
Season your ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then shape it into thin patties slightly larger than the bread slices (they’ll shrink as they cook). Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat, cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, then set them aside to rest.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
On one slice of rye bread, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, the cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, and cheddar cheese. Top with another slice of bread.
Step 4: Toast to Perfection
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a bit of butter. Place the sandwich in the skillet and press down lightly. Cook until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping once. This should take 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your patty melt in half, serve with a side of fries, a pickle, or a salad, and dig in!
How Long to Cook the Perfect Patty Melt
Cooking the components of a patty melt takes precision to ensure each bite is as perfect as it looks. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Cooking the Beef Patties
- Thin patties cook quickly. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat until the patties are browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Internal temperature for medium-rare is 135°F, medium is 145°F, and well-done is 160°F.
Caramelizing the Onions
- Caramelized onions take time to develop that rich, sweet flavor. Plan for 20-30 minutes on low to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Patience is key for the best results!
Toasting the Sandwich
- Once assembled, toast your patty melt on medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently to ensure even browning and melted cheese.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Patty Melts
Patty melts are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored and reheated with ease:
- Refrigerator: Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. It’ll keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet on low heat, pressing down lightly to maintain the crisp exterior while warming the inside. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
- Freezer: You can freeze cooked patties and caramelized onions separately for up to 3 months. Just assemble fresh when ready to eat.
Cooking Tips for the Best Patty Melt
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter evenly across each slice to achieve that golden, crisp crust.
- Press the Sandwich: Lightly press down while toasting for even browning and to ensure the cheese melts properly.
- Customize the Cheese: Mix up the flavors with provolone, pepper jack, or gruyere.
- Use a Cast Iron Skillet: For a perfectly crispy, evenly cooked patty melt, a cast iron skillet is your best friend.
Classic Patty Melt
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
Description
Warm, cheesy, and loaded with caramelized onions, this Classic Patty Melt combines the best of a burger and a grilled cheese. A quick and easy comfort food that never goes out of style!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 slices rye bread
- 1 cup yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 slices Swiss cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes until caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 2 equal portions and shape into thin patties, slightly larger than the bread slices.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Layer the non-buttered side of one slice with a slice of Swiss cheese, a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, and a slice of cheddar cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the assembled sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted.
- Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Notes
- Caramelized onions can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For added flavor, you can mix Worcestershire sauce into the ground beef before shaping the patties.
- Want a spicier kick? Add a slice of pepper jack cheese or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes