Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

 

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce: A Diner Classic You Can Make at Home

There’s something deeply satisfying about a good patty melt—a crispy, golden sandwich that combines the juicy heartiness of a burger with the melty comfort of a grilled cheese. Add a rich, tangy secret sauce, and you’ve got a mouthwatering meal that hits every craving. This recipe brings the diner-style patty melt right into your kitchen, and it’s easier than you think!

What Is a Patty Melt?

A patty melt is the best of both worlds: a cross between a cheeseburger and a grilled cheese sandwich. Instead of a burger bun, it’s made with buttered and grilled bread—usually rye or sourdough. Inside, you’ll find a seasoned beef patty, caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and a flavorful sauce that ties everything together.

The Secret Sauce That Seals the Deal

The real star of this recipe is the secret sauce—a creamy, zesty spread that adds depth and boldness to each bite. It's a blend of familiar ingredients with just the right kick to make this patty melt unforgettable.

Think: a little mayo, a touch of ketchup, a splash of pickle juice, and a dash of spices. Simple ingredients, but together? Magic.

---

Ingredients

For the Patty Melts:

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

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 8 slices of rye or sourdough bread

• 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or American all work well)

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter, plus more for grilling

For the Secret Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons ketchup

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon pickle juice

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

---

How to Make It

1. Make the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, mix all the secret sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.

2. Caramelize the Onions:
   In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring often, until golden brown and soft (about 15–20 minutes).

3. Form and Cook the Patties:
   Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape into thin, oval patties (roughly the shape of your bread). Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through (about 3–4 minutes per side). Set aside.

4. Assemble the Patty Melts:

   • Spread secret sauce on one side of each slice of bread.

   • On half the bread slices, layer cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, and more cheese.

   • Top with the remaining bread slices, sauce side down.

5. Grill the Sandwiches:
   Butter the outsides of the sandwiches and grill them in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted—about 3–4 minutes per side.

---

Serving Tips

Serve your patty melts hot off the skillet with extra sauce on the side and classic diner-style sides like:

• Crispy fries or onion rings

• A simple green salad

• Pickles or coleslaw

Feeling bold? Add a slice of tomato or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.

---

Final Thoughts

These Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are everything you love about comfort food: crispy, cheesy, savory, and totally satisfying. They’re perfect for a casual family dinner, game night, or anytime you’re craving something rich and indulgent.

The best part? You don’t need to hit the diner—you’ve got the secret right in your kitchen.