A classic comfort sandwich with caramelized onions and a creamy secret sauce
Few sandwiches are as satisfying as a patty melt—crispy buttered rye bread, juicy beef patties, melted Swiss cheese, and sweet caramelized onions. This version stays true to the diner classic while adding a flavorful secret sauce that ties everything together. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Sandwich
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 8 slices rye bread
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp butter, plus more for spreading
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Secret Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp relish
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
1. Make the Secret Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Caramelize the Onions
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
3. Cook the Patties
Shape the ground beef into 4 thin patties, slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Cook in the same skillet over medium heat for about 4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your preference. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
- Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
- Spread secret sauce on the unbuttered side of 4 slices.
- Layer in this order:
Swiss cheese → beef patty → caramelized onions → Swiss cheese - Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
5. Grill to Perfection
Heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Grill sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until the bread is golden and crisp and the cheese is fully melted.
Tips for the Perfect Patty Melt
- Use 80/20 beef for juicy, flavorful patties.
- Low and slow onions bring out natural sweetness—don’t rush them.
- Handle beef gently to keep patties tender.
- Butter generously for that signature crispy crust.
- Customize the sauce with hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra kick.
Tasty Variations
- Turkey Patty Melt: Swap beef for ground turkey.
- Vegetarian Patty Melt: Use a plant-based patty and vegan cheese.
- Spicy Melt: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Mushroom Melt: Sauté mushrooms with the onions for umami depth.
- BBQ Patty Melt: Replace secret sauce with BBQ sauce.
- Cheese Swaps: Cheddar, pepper jack, or provolone all work well.
- Bacon Patty Melt: Add crispy bacon for extra richness.
- Open-Faced: Skip the top bread and broil to melt the cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate
- Uncooked assembled sandwiches: up to 1 day (grill fresh).
- Cooked leftovers: up to 2 days.
Freeze
- Wrap uncooked sandwiches tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
Reheat
- Best in a skillet over medium heat until hot and crispy.
- A toaster oven or air fryer also works well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with pickles, potato chips, fries, or a simple side salad. For drinks, a cold beer or bold red wine pairs beautifully.
This Rye Bread Patty Melt delivers classic diner flavor with a homemade touch—crispy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying every time. 🍔✨
