These patty melts are a tasty treat! With juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and sweet caramelized onions all grilled between toasty bread, they’re hard to resist.
Trust me, the combination of flavors makes each bite a little party in your mouth. I love to serve mine with a side of crispy fries—perfect for dipping! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 90/10, but it may be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.
Onion: A medium onion is perfect for sweetness in caramelizing. You can substitute with a sweeter variety like Vidalia or even shallots for a different flavor profile.
Bread: Rye bread is traditional, giving that great taste, but sourdough works well too! If gluten-free is your need, find gluten-free bread that you enjoy.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic, but American cheese melts easily, making it a favorite for many. You can also try provolone or gouda for a unique twist.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the beef, but you can skip it if cooking for kids. Soy sauce is a decent substitute if you want that umami flavor.
How Do You Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes patience, but it’s worth it for the sweet, rich flavor. Follow these simple steps for perfect results:
- Slice the onion thinly to ensure even cooking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter with a pinch of salt.
- Add the onions and stir occasionally for about 15-20 minutes until they’re golden and soft.
- If they start to stick, lower the heat slightly. The goal is slow and steady cooking!
How to Make Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of Swiss or American cheese
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp mustard (optional)
- Cooking oil for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious patty melt recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a bit of time caramelizing the onions and then grilling the patties and sandwiches. It’s a straightforward process that ends with a warm, cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir them occasionally and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to become golden brown and nicely caramelized. Once done, take them off the heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Form the mixture into 2 round patties. In the same skillet or another one, add a little cooking oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty to melt while finishing cooking.
3. Assemble the Patty Melts:
While the patties are cooking, spread a thin layer of mustard on one side of each slice of bread. On the side without mustard for two of the slices, pile on the caramelized onions, then place the cooked patties on top, followed by the remaining slices of cheese. Cap it off with the other two slices of bread, mustard side down.
4. Grill the Sandwiches:
Clean out the skillet and put in the remaining tablespoon of butter. Heat over medium. Once melted, place the assembled sandwiches into the skillet. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is gooey and melted.
5. Serve:
Carefully take the patty melts out of the skillet and slice each one in half. Serve warm and enjoy them with a side of pickles or fries if you like. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef, though it may yield a slightly different flavor and texture. Make sure to season it well, as turkey can be more bland. Cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How Do I Store Leftover Patty Melts?
To store leftover patty melts, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating without burning the bread.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Caramelized onions can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat them in a skillet before using to bring back their delicious flavor and warmth.
What Can I Substitute for Rye or Sourdough Bread?
If you’re not a fan of rye or sourdough, you can use any bread you like! Whole wheat, white sandwich bread, or even a gluten-free option would work well. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly based on your choice.
