A patty melt is the perfect combination of a juicy hamburger patty, buttery toasted bread, gooey melted cheese, and deeply caramelized onions. It tastes like the best parts of a burger and a grilled cheese combined. Crispy on the outside and tender, melty, and savory on the inside—this comforting sandwich is a true diner classic!
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) ground beef
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter (for onions)
8 slices rye bread (or sourdough/white bread)
8 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar/American cheese)
3–4 tablespoons butter (for grilling the sandwiches)
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until golden and soft.
- Season with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the Beef Patties
- Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Divide into 4 thin patties, shaped roughly like your bread slices.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook each patty for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
- Remove and set aside.
- Assemble the Patty Melts
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place buttered side down in a skillet.
- Add:
1 slice of Swiss cheese
1 cooked beef patty
A generous spoonful of caramelized onions
Another slice of cheese
- Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.
- Grill the Sandwich
- Cook over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula.
- Grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Serve
Slice in half and enjoy hot with fries, pickles, or a dipping sauce like Thousand Island or garlic mayo.