Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce: A Diner Classic with a Twist

If you’ve ever craved the comfort of a burger but wanted something with a little more soul, the patty melt is your answer. A cross between a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich, the patty melt is a timeless diner classic—oozing with melted cheese, savory grilled onions, and a perfectly seared beef patty, all nestled between buttery, toasted rye bread.

But this recipe takes it a step further. What elevates this version? The secret sauce. Tangy, creamy, and just the right amount of zesty, this sauce brings the whole sandwich together in a way that’s hard to resist.

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Why You’ll Love This Patty Melt

Patty melts are beloved for their melty, crispy, and savory goodness. Unlike a traditional burger, this sandwich gets pan-fried like a grilled cheese, allowing the bread to crisp up beautifully while the cheese melts into the patty. And when paired with a homemade secret sauce—reminiscent of your favorite burger condiments but with a flavorful punch—it becomes pure comfort food bliss.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make patty melts with secret sauce:

For the Patty Melts:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 8 slices of rye bread (or sourdough, if you prefer)

• 8 slices of Swiss or American cheese

• 2 tbsp butter

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Secret Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• A dash of hot sauce (optional, for a kick)

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How to Make It

1. Make the Secret Sauce

In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking. Set aside or refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Caramelize the Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add the sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and sweet—about 15–20 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

3. Shape and Cook the Patties

Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into thin, oblong patties (to fit the bread slices). Season with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

4. Assemble the Patty Melts

Spread a generous layer of secret sauce on one side of each bread slice. Layer with cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, more cheese, and top with the second slice of bread (sauce side down).

5. Grill the Sandwiches

Wipe the skillet clean, then melt the remaining butter. Grill the assembled sandwiches over medium heat until golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3–4 minutes per side. Press down slightly with a spatula for even grilling.

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Tips for the Best Patty Melt

• Use rye bread for that classic patty melt flavor, but sourdough is a great alternative.

• Low and slow is the key to perfect caramelized onions.

• Make extra secret sauce—you’ll want to dip your fries (or even the sandwich itself) in it.

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Final Bite

The patty melt with secret sauce is proof that you don’t need a grill—or even a bun—to enjoy one of the best sandwiches ever made. It’s gooey, crispy, savory, and completely satisfying. Whether you're making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this elevated classic is sure to become a favorite.

So fire up your skillet, whip up that sauce, and treat yourself to a sandwich that delivers on every level.