Patty Melt Recipe

 

The Ultimate Patty Melt Recipe: A Diner Classic Done Right

Few sandwiches can compete with the timeless, mouthwatering comfort of a Patty Melt. Somewhere between a cheeseburger and grilled cheese, this retro diner staple delivers big on flavor with crispy bread, caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and a juicy beef patty — all smashed together in one unforgettable bite.

It's the kind of meal that doesn’t need frills or fancy toppings. Just honest ingredients, griddled to golden perfection.

Whether you're craving comfort food, cooking up a weekend indulgence, or introducing someone to the glory of classic American sandwiches, this Patty Melt Recipe is a guaranteed winner.

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🍔 What Is a Patty Melt?

A Patty Melt is a beautiful blend of textures and flavors. It’s typically made with:

• A seasoned ground beef patty

• Caramelized onions for deep, sweet flavor

• Melty cheese (usually Swiss, American, or cheddar)

• And two slices of griddled rye bread (or sourdough)

It’s everything you love about a cheeseburger, but with the crispy crunch of a grilled sandwich and the added depth of rich, slow-cooked onions.

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🧾 Ingredients

Serves: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

For the Onions:

• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp butter

• Pinch of salt

• Optional: a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for depth

For the Patties:

• ½ pound ground beef (80/20 is ideal)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• Optional: a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder

For the Sandwich:

• 4 slices of rye bread (or sourdough)

• 4 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, American, or a mix)

• 2 tbsp butter (for the bread)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

• Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.

• Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until soft, golden, and sweet (about 10–15 minutes).

• Optional: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami flavor. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef Patties

• Form ground beef into two thin, wide patties — slightly larger than your bread slices, as they’ll shrink while cooking.

• Season both sides with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.

• In the same skillet (or separate one), cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Patty Melts

• Butter one side of each bread slice.

• On the unbuttered side, layer cheese, a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with the second bread slice (buttered side facing out).

4. Grill the Sandwich

• Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.

• Grill each sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted inside.

• Slice in half and serve hot!

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🍟 What to Serve with a Patty Melt

• Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries

• Pickles or coleslaw for a tangy crunch

• Tomato soup for dipping, grilled cheese–style

• A simple green salad for balance

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🔄 Variations to Try

• Spicy Patty Melt: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.

• Mushroom Swiss Melt: Add sautéed mushrooms for earthy flavor.

• Double Decker: Go big with two thin patties and an extra layer of cheese.

• Vegan Twist: Use plant-based patties, vegan cheese, and dairy-free butter.

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🧡 Why You’ll Love It

This isn’t just another sandwich — it’s a nostalgic bite of diner history, made at home. The crispy bread, the savory beef, the sweet onions, and the gooey cheese create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. It’s cozy. It’s hearty. And it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

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✨ Final Thoughts

The Patty Melt proves that sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones — no complicated ingredients, no fancy techniques, just real food done right. Whether you're feeding your family, cooking for one, or just craving something that hits the spot, this recipe delivers every time.