Description
This Classic Patty Melt is the perfect marriage of a burger and a grilled cheese—featuring juicy ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, and perfectly melted cheese between buttery, golden slices of bread. It’s rich, satisfying, and guaranteed to hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
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1 medium onion, thinly sliced
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8 slices rye or sourdough bread
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8 slices Swiss or American cheese
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2 tbsp mayonnaise or softened butter (for spreading)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard
Instructions
1️⃣ Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook sliced onions in a little butter or oil for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until golden and caramelized. Set aside.
2️⃣ Form and cook patties: Shape ground beef into 4 thin, oval patties (to match bread shape). Season with salt and pepper. Cook in the skillet over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Add Worcestershire if desired. Set aside.
3️⃣ Assemble melts: On 4 slices of bread, layer a slice of cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with another bread slice.
4️⃣ Grill the melts: Spread mayo or butter on the outside of each sandwich. Grill in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5️⃣ Serve: Slice in half and enjoy hot, with pickles or fries on the side.
Notes
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Bread matters: Rye bread adds classic flavor, but sourdough or Texas toast work too.
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Cheese options: Try pepper jack, cheddar, or provolone for different flavor profiles.
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Add-ins: For extra zing, spread a bit of Dijon mustard or Thousand Island dressing inside before grilling.
- Prep Time: 15 MIN
- Cook Time: 25 MIN