These tasty patty melts bring together juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and sweet caramelized onions all tucked between crispy toasted bread. What’s not to love?
Honestly, those caramelized onions make everything better! I can never resist adding a little more because they’re just that good. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun weekend treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend is recommended because it has the right fat content for juicy patties. If you prefer leaner meat, go for 85/15 or even turkey for a lighter option.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you want a kick, try red onions instead. They add color and a bit of tang!
Bread: Rye or sourdough brings great flavor, but you can substitute with whole wheat or even a gluten-free option if needed. Experiment with different types to find your favorite!
Cheese: Swiss is classic, but I love American cheese for its meltiness. If dairy is an issue, try vegan cheese that melts well.
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions might seem tricky, but it’s all about patience. The slow cooking allows their natural sugars to develop a deep flavor. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat your skillet on medium-low and add oil and the sliced onions with a pinch of salt.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- If they start to brown too quickly, turn the heat down. This slow process is key!
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of cheese (Swiss or American cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional: mustard for spread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 30-40 minutes for cooking, including the time to caramelize the onions. So, you should be ready to enjoy your tasty patty melts in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add your thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook them slowly for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to make them soft and caramelized without burning. Once they’re golden and delicious, set them aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it), and season with salt and pepper. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into patties that are slightly larger than your bread slices. They will shrink a bit while cooking, so make them a little bigger!
3. Cook the Patties:
In the same skillet that you used for the onions, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the patties and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re browned and cooked to your liking. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty so it can melt perfectly!
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer the caramelized onions first, then place the cheesy patty on top, and finish with another slice of bread (with the buttered side facing out).
5. Grill the Sandwiches:
Wipe out your skillet, then return it to medium heat. Place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet and grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want the bread to turn golden brown and crispy, and the cheese to melt just right!
6. Serve:
Once grilled, slice your patty melts in half and serve them hot. They’re perfect with your favorite dipping sauces or sides. Enjoy your delicious patty melts with caramelized onions!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great alternative for this recipe. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can cook more quickly than beef. Adding a bit of extra seasoning can help enhance the flavor of turkey, so feel free to up the salt and pepper or add some spices!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Rye or Sourdough Bread?
No problem! You can use any bread you have on hand, such as whole wheat, white, or even a sturdy gluten-free bread. Just keep in mind, the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave. If reheating in a skillet, you might want to add a little butter for extra crispiness!
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions in Advance?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them on the stovetop before assembling your patty melts. This will save you time and make the process smoother!
