A patty melt is the perfect mix between a juicy burger and a grilled cheese. It’s rich, gooey, flavorful, and packed with caramelized onions and melted cheese between perfectly toasted bread. This recipe delivers that classic diner-style taste in the comfort of your kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and makes a great lunch or dinner any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 slices of bread (rye or white)
- 8 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
- 2–3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
Heat a pan over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly until they turn golden and caramelized. This usually takes about 10–12 minutes. Stir occasionally so they don’t burn and add a pinch of salt to help them soften.
In a bowl, season the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined and form the beef into thin oval patties that match the shape of your bread.
Cook the patties in the same pan until nicely browned on each side. They should be fully cooked but still juicy. Remove them and set aside.
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. This helps create the crispy, golden crust that a patty melt is known for. Place a slice of cheese on the unbuttered side of the bread, then layer a cooked beef patty on top. Add a generous amount of caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and close with another piece of bread, buttered side out.
Place the sandwiches in a pan over medium-low heat. Cook slowly so the bread becomes crisp while the cheese melts perfectly. Flip once the bottom is golden brown and continue cooking the other side. Press lightly with a spatula for an even toast.
Once both sides are golden and the cheese is fully melted, remove the sandwiches from the pan and let them rest for a minute before slicing.
Tips for Best Results
Cooking the sandwiches slowly is key. Low heat prevents the bread from burning while the cheese melts. Rye bread gives the most authentic flavor, but white or sourdough works well too. Caramelizing the onions properly adds depth and sweetness, so don’t rush that step. You can also add mushrooms, different cheeses, or even a spicy sauce to customize the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these patty melts with fries, onion rings, pickles, or a simple salad. They’re great for a cozy dinner or a weekend lunch. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet or air fryer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich brings together all the best elements—crispy bread, gooey cheese, savory beef, and sweet onions. It’s comforting, filling, and easy to make with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re feeding your family or craving something rich and satisfying, patty melts are always a great choice.