Name: Patty Melts With Secret Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Ground beef; Rye bread; Yellow onions; Swiss or American cheese slices; Butter; Mayonnaise; Ketchup; Mustard; Pickle relish; Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper

Craving a classic diner-style patty melt with a twist? Look no further! This ultimate patty melt recipe is loaded with juicy beef, caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and a perfectly toasted bread exterior. But the star of the show is the secret sauce – a creamy, tangy addition that will elevate your patty melt experience to a whole new level. Keep reading to learn how to make this mouth-watering patty melt with step-by-step instructions, tips, and serving ideas. Trust us; you don’t want to miss out on this one!

What is a “Patty Melt”?

A patty melt is a sandwich that combines the best of a burger and grilled cheese. Traditionally made with ground beef, cheese, and grilled onions between slices of rye or sourdough bread, the patty melt has been a diner favorite for decades. Unlike a classic hamburger, it’s cooked on a griddle or skillet, giving it a crispy, buttery crust. This patty melt recipe also includes a secret sauce – a delightful spread that adds a punch of flavor to every bite.

Ingredients List for Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

For the Patty Melts

1 lb ground beef (80% lean) – for juicy, flavorful patties
4 slices of rye or sourdough bread – classic choices for a patty melt
4 slices of Swiss cheese or cheddar cheese – for that melty, gooey goodness
1 large onion, thinly sliced – for caramelized onions
2 tablespoon butter – for toasting the bread
Salt and pepper to taste – to season the patties

For the Secret Sauce

3 tablespoon mayonnaise – base for a creamy texture
1 tablespoon ketchup – adds a slight sweetness and color
1 tablespoon mustard – tangy and adds depth
1 tablespoon pickle relish – for a crunchy texture and briny flavor
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – for umami richness
1 clove garlic, minced – for a hint of garlic

Substitutions and Variations

Looking to make this recipe your own? Here are some ways you can customize it:

Cheese Options: Swiss cheese is classic, but cheddar, American, or pepper jack work well too.
Bread Choices: Rye bread is traditional, but sourdough or whole wheat can be delicious alternatives.
Meat Variations: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or try a veggie patty for a vegetarian twist.
Secret Sauce Alternatives: If you want to switch up the sauce, try a chipotle mayo or add a little hot sauce for extra heat.
Onion Varieties: White, yellow, or red onions can be used depending on the flavor you prefer.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking a patty melt might sound intimidating, but it's easier than you think! Follow these steps to get it just right:

Step 1: Prepare the Secret Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic until smooth. Set aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, season with a pinch of salt, and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Shape and Season the Patties

Divide the ground beef into two equal portions and shape them into oval patties that will fit the shape of your bread. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Patty Melt

Spread a generous amount of secret sauce on each slice of bread. Place a slice of cheese on each piece of bread, followed by the cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese.

Step 6: Toast the Patty Melt

Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

How to Cook a Patty Melt: A Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare the sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate.
Caramelize the onions: Slowly cook onions in butter until golden brown.
Shape patties: Form ground beef into oval patties.
Season and cook: Season patties with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet.
Assemble and toast: Layer sauce, cheese, patty, onions, and more cheese between bread slices, then toast until crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Patties: Aim for a juicy patty by not overcooking. Medium to medium-well works best.
Skipping the Caramelized Onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet depth of flavor; don’t rush this step.
Using Dry Bread: Fresh bread works best. Avoid stale or dry bread, as it won’t hold up to the ingredients.
Not Melting the Cheese Properly: Cover the pan for a few seconds if the cheese isn’t melting fully.
Forgetting the Secret Sauce: The sauce is essential for flavor; don’t skip it!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make a good patty melt into a great one. Here are a few ideas:

Cut the Sandwich in Half: For a classic diner look, cut the patty melt in half diagonally.
Serve with Pickles and Chips: Add a side of dill pickles and crispy chips to enhance the meal.
Add a Dip on the Side: Serve extra secret sauce or ketchup on the side for dipping.
Use a Platter: Arrange the patty melt on a large plate with garnishes to make it feel like a restaurant experience.

How to Serve Patty Melts

Patty melts are perfect for casual dining and make for a satisfying meal on their own. Here’s how to serve them:

With Fries: Serve with French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic diner-style combo.
With a Salad: Pair with a side salad for a lighter touch.
On a Bed of Greens: For a twist, serve the patty melt open-faced on a bed of lettuce and arugula.
With Coleslaw: The creamy tanginess of coleslaw complements the richness of the melt.

Presentation Ideas for Patty Melts

Elevate your patty melt presentation with these ideas:

Stacked Presentation: Cut the sandwich and stack it so you can see all the delicious layers.
Rustic Plating: Serve on a wooden board for a rustic, pub-style feel.
Layered Garnishes: Add a few sprigs of parsley or chives on the side for color.
Serve with a Pickle Spear: A crunchy pickle spear adds texture and balances the richness of the melt.

Patty Melt Recipe Tips

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature cheese melts better, and patties cook more evenly.
Butter the Bread, Not the Pan: For an even crust, spread butter directly on the bread instead of melting it in the skillet.
Press the Sandwich Gently: Pressing with a spatula gives the patty melt a crispy, compact texture.
Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Cheese is crucial for the melt; be generous with it.
Use Medium Heat: High heat can burn the bread before the cheese melts. Medium heat ensures even toasting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make patty melts with a different type of meat?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based patties work well in a patty melt.

Q: What’s the best cheese for a patty melt?
A: Swiss cheese is traditional, but cheddar, American, or provolone are all great choices.

Q: Can I make the secret sauce in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the secret sauce up to a week in advance. Just keep it refrigerated.

Q: Do I have to use rye bread?
A: No, sourdough or any sturdy bread will work, but rye gives it a classic taste.

Q: How can I keep my patty melts warm if I’m making them for a crowd?
A: Place them in a low oven (200°F) on a baking sheet until ready to serve.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate patty melt with a secret sauce that will impress your taste buds! This recipe combines classic elements with a modern twist, creating a hearty, satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy secret sauce, these patty melts are truly irresistible. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy the best homemade patty melt you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make it your own!