The Classic Patty Melt is the ultimate comfort food—a flavorful, juicy beef patty layered with melted cheese and caramelized onions, all nestled between buttery, toasted rye bread. It’s a diner favorite that’s easy to recreate at home and perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Combines the best of burgers and grilled cheese in one sandwich.
Rich, buttery, and packed with bold flavors.
Perfectly customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef
Onion, thinly sliced
Rye bread
Swiss cheese
Butter
Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper

Find the full list of ingredients with measurements below.

Directions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Heat a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties

Divide the ground beef into equal portions and shape them into thin patties, slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat the same skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Place a slice of Swiss cheese on the unbuttered side, followed by a beef patty, a generous portion of caramelized onions, and another slice of Swiss cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.

Step 5: Grill the Sandwich

Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve

Cut the patty melts in half and serve hot with a side of pickles, fries, or coleslaw.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Thin patties are key: They cook quickly and fit perfectly between the bread.
Low and slow for the onions: Patience is essential for deeply caramelized onions.
Toast evenly: Use a heavy pan or press the sandwich gently to ensure even toasting.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Use cheddar or American cheese for a twist on the classic flavor.
Substitute rye bread with sourdough or whole-grain bread for a different texture.
Add sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve this Classic Patty Melt with crispy fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad. A creamy milkshake or an ice-cold soda makes the perfect beverage pairing to complete the diner experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

While best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness of the bread.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the caramelized onions and patties in advance. Assemble and grill the sandwiches just before serving for the best taste.

Q2: Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative to beef.

Q3: What’s the best cheese for a patty melt?
Swiss is traditional, but Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Havarti are delicious options.

Q4: Can I freeze cooked patties?
Absolutely. Freeze cooked patties in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat before assembling the sandwich.

Conclusion

The Classic Patty Melt is a timeless comfort food that combines all the best flavors and textures in one irresistible sandwich. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and you’ll see why it’s been a diner staple for generations!

Classic Patty Melt

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Author: Jake
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40minutes
Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

The Classic Patty Melt is a diner favorite that combines juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese, and buttery toasted rye bread. It’s a perfect comfort food, blending the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich into one mouthwatering dish.

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions:
1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Shape the Patties:
1. Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into thin, oval-shaped patties slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook the Patties:
1. In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the skillet for extra flavor. Remove and set aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
1. Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of rye bread. Place one slice, mayonnaise-side down, in the skillet over medium heat. Layer with a slice of Swiss cheese, a cooked patty, caramelized onions, and a slice of cheddar cheese (if using). Top with another slice of rye bread, mayonnaise-side up.
Toast the Sandwiches:
1. Cook the assembled sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve:
1. Slice the patty melt in half and serve hot with fries, coleslaw, or a pickle on the side.

Notes

Use sourdough or whole wheat bread if rye isn’t available.
For a spicier kick, add a few jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce inside the sandwich.
Leftovers can be reheated in a skillet to retain crispness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 580
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 21g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 95mg