Name: Classic Patty Melt Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons butter, divided; 2 medium onions, thinly sliced; 1 pound ground beef; Salt and pepper, to taste; 8 slices rye bread (or your favorite sandwich bread); 4 tablespoons mayonnaise; 8 slices Swiss cheese

Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering Classic Patty Melt recipe! It’s the perfect blend of juicy beef, gooey cheese, and caramelized onions, all sandwiched between crispy, buttery rye bread. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a delicious, satisfying meal that’ll knock your socks off!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor Combo: The combination of savory beef, sweet caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese is simply unbeatable.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun weekend lunch, this patty melt fits the bill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Butter: For cooking and adding richness to the sandwich.
Onions: Caramelized to sweet perfection, they’re the secret weapon in this recipe.
Ground Beef: The star of the show, providing juicy, meaty goodness.
Rye Bread: Adds a delicious tang and holds up well to the fillings.
Mayonnaise: Creates a crispy exterior and adds extra flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully and complements the other flavors perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: To season the beef and enhance overall taste.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Cheese Choices: Swap Swiss for cheddar, provolone, or American cheese.
Bread Options: Try sourdough or whole wheat for a different flavor profile.
Protein Switch: Use ground turkey or a veggie patty for a lighter version.
Add Some Heat: Include jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

How to Make the Classic Patty Melt

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Melt butter in a skillet and cook sliced onions until they’re golden brown and irresistibly sweet.

Step 2: Prepare the Patties

Season ground beef with salt and pepper, form into patties, and cook to your desired doneness.

Step 3: Toast the Bread

Butter the rye bread slices and toast them in the skillet until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble and Grill

Layer cheese, patty, onions, and more cheese on the bread. Top with another slice, spread with mayo, and grill until the cheese is melty and the bread is crispy.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Low and Slow: Take your time caramelizing the onions for maximum flavor.
Don’t Overcook: Keep the patties juicy by not overcooking them.
Clean Skillet: Wipe the skillet between steps to prevent burning.
Even Heat: Cook the assembled sandwiches on medium-low for perfectly melted cheese and crispy bread.

How to Serve

Serve your patty melt hot off the grill, sliced diagonally for that classic diner look. Pair it with:

Crispy french fries or potato chips
A tangy dill pickle spear
A side salad for a lighter option
A cold beer or milkshake for the ultimate indulgence

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap cooled patty melts in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Not recommended, as the texture may suffer.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well, just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I prevent my bread from getting soggy?
Toast the bread before assembling and don’t let the hot ingredients sit on the bread for too long before grilling.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use a plant-based patty and check that your cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

What’s the best way to slice onions for this recipe?
Thinly sliced onions work best for even caramelization and easy eating in the sandwich.

This Classic Patty Melt is comfort food at its finest. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So fire up that skillet and get ready to enjoy a taste of diner-style deliciousness right in your own kitchen!