Description

This Classic Patty Melt recipe features juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted Swiss and American cheese, and crispy rye bread, all cooked to golden perfection on the stovetop. A delicious twist on the classic burger, patty melts are comfort food at its best—gooey, savory, and satisfyingly crunchy.

Ingredients

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For the Caramelized Onions

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Pinch of salt

For the Beef Patties

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For Assembling the Patty Melts

8 slices rye bread
4 slices Swiss cheese
4 slices American cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)

Optional for Serving

Dill pickle slices
Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard

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Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn deep golden brown and sweet, about 25-30 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
Shape and Season the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each into a thin patty the size of your bread slices. Season both sides of the patties with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook the Beef Patties: Heat a skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until well browned and just cooked through. Remove to a plate.
Assemble the Patty Melts: Lay out 4 slices of rye bread. Top each with a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a beef patty, a generous scoop of caramelized onions, a slice of American cheese, and another slice of bread.
Grill the Sandwiches: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the outside of each sandwich (both top and bottom). Wipe out the skillet and return to medium heat. Cook the sandwiches in batches, pressing gently with a spatula for even browning, about 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
Serve: Cut each patty melt in half and serve hot with pickles and your favorite sauce.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms to the onions.
Use marble rye or pumpernickel for a twist on traditional rye bread.
If you prefer, substitute cheddar or provolone for the cheeses.
Patty melts are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated on a hot skillet to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 640
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1150mg
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 46g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 120mg