The classic patty melt is a delightful fusion of two iconic American comfort foods: the hamburger and the grilled cheese sandwich.

With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this cherished dish first emerged in U.S. diners in the mid-20th century.

Over the years, it has become a beloved staple on comfort food menus nationwide, known for its perfect blend of ground beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions nestled between slices of buttery rye bread.

What Makes the Patty Melt Unique?

The patty melt sets itself apart from traditional burgers with its distinctive choice of bread and cooking method.

Instead of a bun, it is served between slices of toasted rye bread, which adds a unique flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the caramelized onions and the richness of the cheese.

Additionally, grilling the sandwich after it’s assembled creates a buttery, crispy exterior that contrasts deliciously with the juicy, tender interior.

The Role of the Secret Sauce

The secret sauce is the finishing touch that takes the patty melt to the next level. This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet blend not only adds moisture but also layers of flavor that bring the whole sandwich together.

Typically made with ingredients like mayonnaise, ketchup, and a hint of mustard, the sauce can vary depending on the chef’s creativity or regional influences.

The Patty Melt’s Rise to Fame

Originally popular in diners and roadside eateries, the patty melt became a go-to choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Its straightforward preparation and universally loved ingredients quickly made it a favorite.

Today, you can find gourmet versions of the patty melt on upscale restaurant menus, featuring artisanal breads, exotic cheeses, and custom-blend ground meats that elevate this classic dish beyond its humble origins.

Patty Melt with Secret Sauce

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Yearning for a comforting meal that’s rich and fulfilling? Your search ends with this mouthwatering Patty Melt featuring a tantalizing Secret Sauce. This recipe turns basic ingredients into a sensory delight.

Picture a succulent, thin ground beef patty combined with sweet caramelized onions and two layers of gooey cheese, all elevated by a zesty, flavorful secret sauce. It’s more than just a sandwich; it’s a culinary adventure!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Special Sauce:

¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon pickle juice
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Patty Melts:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
12 ounces of 85/15 ground beef
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
8 slices of rye bread
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 slices of Swiss cheese
4 slices of cheddar cheese

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Instructions

Making the Special Sauce:

In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, paprika, and garlic powder until you achieve a smooth consistency. Set the sauce aside.

Caramelizing the Onions:

Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and attain a rich golden-brown hue, which should take about 30 minutes.
If the onions begin to dry out or start to burn, add a little water and lower the heat.

Preparing the Burger Patty:

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Form the mixture into four thin, oblong patties, ensuring they will fit the bread slices.
Cook the patties in a skillet over medium heat, browning each side evenly. Once cooked, set the patties aside and remove any excess grease from the skillet.

Assembling the Patty Melts:

Butter one side of each bread slice. Place a slice, buttered side down, onto the skillet.
Layer the sandwich by adding a slice of Swiss cheese, followed by a beef patty, caramelized onions, a generous spread of the special sauce, a slice of cheddar cheese, and finish with another bread slice, buttered side up.
Cook the sandwich until the bottom slice of bread turns golden brown, then carefully flip it to cook the other side until it is also golden and the cheese has melted, which should take about 1-2 minutes per side.

Notes

The special sauce recipe yields extra, which is great for topping more sandwiches or for dipping. Keep any leftover sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator for later use.