Name: Patty Melt Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend); 4 slices of rye bread; 4 slices of Swiss cheese; 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for grilling); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and black pepper to taste

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If you’re craving retro diner vibes at home, this Patty Melt Recipe is going to hit every comfort food note. Think juicy seasoned patties, deeply caramelized onions, melty Swiss cheese, all sandwiched between thick slices of crispy, buttery rye bread—it’s a classic for a reason! This is one of those recipes that turns an ordinary evening into something special, perfect for sharing with friends or just treating yourself to a little nostalgia.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need to create this irresistible patty melt recipe are a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the flavorful beef to the sweet onions and nutty Swiss cheese—together they create a symphony of taste and texture you won’t soon forget.

Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend): This fat ratio is the secret to rich, juicy patties that hold together beautifully and deliver big flavor.
Rye bread (4 slices): Its earthy depth and slight tang is the traditional bread for a patty melt, and it grills up with the perfect crispness.
Swiss cheese (4 slices): Smooth, melty, and gently sharp—Swiss cheese turns this sandwich into a gooey masterpiece.
Yellow onion (1 large, thinly sliced): Slow-cooked until caramelized, onions bring out a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes.
Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, plus more for grilling): Butter ensures extra flavor and helps get that golden, crunchy crust on the bread.
Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Used with butter to prevent burning while caramelizing onions and searing the patties.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): This adds irresistibly deep, savory undertones to the beef.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Seasoning is crucial for bringing out all those bold, classic flavors.

How to Make Patty Melt Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by melting the butter with vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in those thinly sliced onions, stirring occasionally for about 20 to 25 minutes. Patience is key here—the slow caramelization draws out their natural sugars, giving you that iconic, sweet-savory layer that makes this patty melt recipe unforgettable. Once golden and soft, set them aside.

Step 2: Season and Shape the Beef

In a mixing bowl, combine your ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix just until blended—don’t overdo it, or the patties could turn tough. Form the beef into two oval patties sized to fit your rye bread. This shape guarantees you’ll get a bite of everything in every mouthful.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Patties

Turn up the heat! In that same trusty skillet (no need to wash it), cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until your preferred doneness. The skillet should be hot enough to get a flavorful crust on each side, locking in those juices. Once cooked, set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Butter and Assemble the Sandwiches

Here’s where it all comes together. Generously butter one side of each slice of rye bread. On the unbuttered side, layer as follows: cheese, beef patty, a decadent mound of caramelized onions, more cheese, then top with the second slice of bread (butter side out). This double layer of cheese not only amps up the creaminess, but also acts as a glue, holding everything together.

Step 5: Grill to Golden Perfection

With your sandwiches assembled, clean the skillet and set it over medium heat. Place each patty melt in, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently and watch for the bread to become irresistibly golden brown and crispy, with the cheese melted into every crevice. Slice in half, and serve immediately while piping hot.

How to Serve Patty Melt Recipe

Garnishes

Bring out the diner magic with a classic dill pickle spear or a little heap of coleslaw on the side—these bright, tangy notes balance out the richness of your patty melt recipe. A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a pop of freshness and color on top, making every plate feel just a little bit fancier.

Side Dishes

This sandwich loves company! Pair your patty melt with crispy shoestring fries or sweet potato fries for that timeless comfort food combo. For a lighter touch, a simple green salad dressed with a punchy vinaigrette helps cut through the cheesy, meaty richness, offering the ultimate well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn heads by serving the sandwiches cut on the diagonal and stacked for bakery-style flair, or offer a trio of dipping sauces like Thousand Island, spicy mustard, and creamy horseradish for a fun, interactive experience. Serve mini versions as sliders at your next get-together—people will rave about this upgraded party finger food!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have extra, let your patty melt recipe cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil or sealing in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the bread and filling layered together for the best flavor, but expect a little softening of the bread on reheating.

Freezing

Patty melts freeze surprisingly well! Assemble the sandwiches (without grilling), wrap each tightly in plastic wrap then foil, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then grill fresh so the bread crisps up just like new.

Reheating

Craving a second round? For best results, unwrap and warm your patty melt recipe in a skillet over medium-low heat. This revives the bread’s crunch and re-melts the cheese—all without drying out the patty. In a pinch, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of bread for my patty melt recipe?

Definitely! While rye bread is the classic choice for its flavor and texture, you can swap in sourdough, Texas toast, or even whole wheat if you prefer. Just make sure you pick a sturdy bread that grills well and can hold all that delicious filling.

Is it okay to use a cheese other than Swiss?

Absolutely. Cheddar, provolone, or American cheese are all tasty substitutes and melt beautifully. Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite version of this patty melt recipe!

Can I caramelize the onions in advance?

Yes, you can caramelize a big batch of onions ahead of time—they keep in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat well. This shortcut can cut down your dinner prep significantly, without sacrificing a hint of flavor.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Using thick slices of rye and grilling over moderate heat with enough butter creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess. Make sure your skillet is fully preheated before adding the sandwich, and don’t overload with extra moisture from toppings or sauces inside.

Can I make the patties in advance?

Forming and seasoning your patties up to a day ahead works great. Layer parchment or wax paper between them and keep covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook to streamline prep time for your next patty melt recipe night.

Final Thoughts

This patty melt recipe is the ultimate answer when you want a meal that’s satisfying, a little nostalgic, and full of bold flavors. I hope you’ll give it a try soon—trust me, once you take that first bite, it’ll become a crave-worthy favorite in your kitchen, too!

Patty Melt Recipe

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4.5 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the classic comfort of a Patty Melt with this easy-to-follow recipe. Juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and caramelized onions sandwiched between buttery, toasted rye bread – a perfect blend of flavors for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients for Patty Melt:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
4 slices of rye bread
4 slices of Swiss cheese
1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for grilling)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add the butter and oil. Cook the sliced onions slowly until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Set aside.
Prepare the Beef Patties: Season the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form into two oval-shaped patties.
Cook the Patties: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side until desired doneness. Set aside.
Assemble the Patty Melts: Butter one side of each bread slice. Layer bread, Swiss cheese, beef patty, caramelized onions, more cheese, and top with bread. Grill until golden and cheese melts.
Serve: Slice the Patty Melts in half and serve hot.