These Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a mouthwatering twist on the classic diner favorite. With juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a perfectly toasted bread, these patty melts are enhanced by a delicious secret sauce that takes the flavor to the next level. It’s a perfect comfort food meal that’s easy to make at home and will quickly become a family favorite.
The combination of savory beef, gooey cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy secret sauce is irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch, these patty melts are sure to hit the spot.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 slices rye or sourdough bread
- 8 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Secret Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon pickle relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
- Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, or until they are soft and golden brown. Reduce the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
- Once caramelized, transfer the onions to a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a thin patty, slightly larger than the slices of bread.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
- In the same skillet used for the onions, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice crust. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melts
- Spread a thin layer of secret sauce on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place a slice of cheese on each bread slice, then add a beef patty on top of 4 of the slices.
- Top each patty with caramelized onions and another slice of cheese. Place the remaining bread slices on top, sauce side down.
Step 5: Grill the Patty Melts
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil in the skillet over medium heat.
- Place the assembled patty melts in the skillet, pressing down gently with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before serving.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice each patty melt in half and serve with extra secret sauce on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Bread Choice: Rye bread is traditional for patty melts, but you can use sourdough or any sturdy bread you prefer.
- Caramelized Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions to bring out their natural sweetness. Low and slow is the key.
- Cheese Options: Swiss cheese is classic, but cheddar or even pepper jack can be used for a different flavor.
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom Patty Melt: Add sautéed mushrooms along with the caramelized onions for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Patty Melt: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Turkey Patty Melt: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version of this classic sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the secret sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Q: How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
A: Make sure to cook the patties over medium-high heat to develop a good crust, and toast the bread until golden brown for the best texture.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! While Swiss is traditional, cheddar, provolone, or even mozzarella can be used depending on your preference.
These Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a delicious twist on the classic diner favorite, featuring juicy beef patties, perfectly caramelized onions, melty cheese, and a tangy secret sauce that brings it all together. This comforting sandwich is perfect for any time you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the mouthwatering combination of flavors in every bite!
