Description
Patty Melts are the perfect cross between a burger and a grilled cheese—juicy beef patties, sweet caramelized onions, and melty cheese pressed between buttery, toasted bread. What makes this version unforgettable is the secret sauce: creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, it ties everything together in one irresistible bite.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough if preferred)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
For the Secret Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon pickle relish (or finely chopped pickles)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan
- Spatula
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Begin by making the secret sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pickle relish, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir until smooth, then refrigerate to let the flavors blend.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until soft, golden, and caramelized—about 15–20 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Form the ground beef into four thin, oval-shaped patties slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, cook the patties for about 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place four slices butter-side down on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of secret sauce on the unbuttered side. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, a slice of cheddar cheese, and another slice of bread (buttered side facing out).
Heat the skillet over medium heat. Cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the skillet, let rest for a minute, then slice in half and serve hot.
Storage
Patty melts are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy.
FAQ
Can I use a different cheese? Yes—American, provolone, or pepper jack all work well.
Why rye bread? Rye adds a classic deli-style flavor that pairs perfectly with beef and cheese.
Can I make the sauce ahead? Absolutely. The secret sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Conclusion
These Delicious Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are comfort food at its finest—crispy, cheesy, savory, and deeply satisfying. Once you try this version, it’s bound to become a regular favorite at your table.
Enjoy !!!
