Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

A classic Patty Melt with juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, gooey Swiss cheese, and crispy rye bread is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner, this sandwich is made even better with a flavorful secret sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines juicy burgers with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich.
• Features golden, buttery rye bread and perfectly caramelized onions.
• Includes a “secret sauce” for an added layer of tangy, savory flavor.
• Quick to prepare for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
• Customizable with your favorite bread, cheese, or burger add-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Patty Melts:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 ¼ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 8 slices rye bread
• About 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese

Optional: Secret Sauce

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon pickle juice or finely chopped pickles
• Dash of hot sauce (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden brown and caramelized, about 20–25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties

In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than the bread slices.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until well browned. Set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melts

Wipe out the skillet and melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Lay 4 slices of rye bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Top each with a burger patty, a slice of Swiss cheese, half of the caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and the second slice of bread, buttered side up.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwiches

Cook each patty melt until both sides are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted, about 2–4 minutes per side. Use a spatula to press gently for even cooking.

Optional: Make the Secret Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, and hot sauce. Serve as a dip or spread inside the sandwiches before grilling.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board, slice diagonally, and serve hot with the secret sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 765 kcal
• Total Fat: 53g
• Saturated Fat: 27g
• Cholesterol: 175mg
• Sodium: 1087mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 37g

Variations

• Cheese Options: Substitute Swiss cheese with cheddar, provolone, or American cheese for different flavors.
• Bread Options: Use sourdough, whole wheat, or white bread if rye isn’t your favorite.
• Vegetarian: Replace the beef patty with a veggie burger or grilled portobello mushrooms.
• Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a spicy aioli to the sandwich.
• Extra Toppings: Include crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a fried egg for added indulgence.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness or in the microwave for 30–45 seconds (but the bread may soften).

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked burgers for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked burgers can save time. Reheat them slightly before assembling the sandwiches.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese.

3. Can I caramelize the onions in advance?

Absolutely! Caramelized onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

4. What’s the best way to press the sandwiches while grilling?

Use a spatula to press gently, or place a heavy skillet on top of the sandwiches for even cooking.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or fresh spinach are excellent additions.

6. Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of the patty melt.

7. Can I freeze leftover patty melts?

It’s best to freeze just the cooked patties and assemble the sandwiches fresh when ready to eat.

8. How can I make these healthier?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, whole-grain bread, and light cheese for a lighter version.

9. Can I skip the secret sauce?

Yes, but the sauce adds a tangy flavor that complements the patty melts.

10. What sides go well with patty melts?

Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a timeless classic with their juicy patties, buttery bread, and savory onions. This recipe is a delicious way to elevate your burger game with the addition of melty cheese and a tangy, flavorful sauce. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual get-together, these patty melts are sure to impress. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness in every bite!

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