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Classic Patty Melt Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Sandwich

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A Classic Patty Melt is the perfect blend of juicy beef, caramelized onions, melty cheese, and crispy toasted bread. This retro diner favorite brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite—ideal for cozy evenings, casual lunches, or game day cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder or onion powder (optional)

  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • Pinch of salt

  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

  • 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough as an alternative)

  • 4 tbsp softened butter

  • 8 slices Swiss cheese (or a mix of Swiss and American cheese)

Instructions

  • In a skillet over medium-low heat, add butter and olive oil. Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt and cook, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized. Add a pinch of sugar if needed. Set aside.

  • In a bowl, mix ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic or onion powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 thin patties, slightly larger than your bread slices.

  • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Let rest.

  • Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer one slice of cheese, a patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.

  • Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grill sandwiches 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.

  • Remove from heat, slice, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Caramelizing the onions slowly brings out their sweetness—don’t rush it.

  • Swiss cheese is traditional, but feel free to mix cheeses for more flavor.

  • Add bacon, jalapeños, or mushrooms for a variation.

  • Best enjoyed hot and crispy right after cooking.

Find it online: https://cookingworthy.com/classic-patty-melt-recipe-the-ultimate-comfort-sandwich/