Patty melts are a comforting classic that always hit the spot, especially on busy weeknights. This beloved diner favorite, with its crispy bread, juicy burger, melty cheese, and delicious caramelized onions, is a nostalgic treat that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. And let's not forget the star of this recipe – the secret sauce that takes it to the next level! Perfect for satisfying those cravings without having to leave the house.
Patty melts pair wonderfully with crispy fries or a fresh side salad to balance out the richness. For a bit of variety, consider serving them with sweet potato fries or a light coleslaw. Don't forget a pickle spear on the side for that perfect tangy crunch!
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Patty Melts with Caramelized Onions and Secret Sauce
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, sliced
8 slices rye bread
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 large onion, sliced
8 slices rye bread
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions
Start by making the secret sauce. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 15 minutes.
Divide ground beef into 4 portions, shape into patties, and season with salt and pepper.
Cook patties in the skillet until done, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Butter one side of each rye bread slice. Place 4 slices, buttered side down, on a skillet over medium heat.
Layer each with a slice of Swiss cheese, a cooked patty, caramelized onions, and a slice of cheddar cheese.
Top with another slice of rye bread, buttered side up.
Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Serve the patty melts hot with a generous dollop of secret sauce.
Variations & Tips
For a bit of a kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the secret sauce. You can also use turkey or chicken patties for a lighter version. If you prefer a different cheese, try using pepper jack or provolone for a unique twist. For a vegetarian option, replace the beef patties with portobello mushrooms or a veggie burger patty.