These patty melts are a great combo of juicy beef patties, melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, all sandwiched in buttery, toasted bread. Yum!
Honestly, those caramelized onions are like gold on a burger! I love how they add a warm, sweet flavor that just makes every bite worth it. Grab a napkin; you’re going to love these!
For me, making a patty melt is super easy. Just cook the patties, throw on some cheese and onions, and grill it all up. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, try 90/10 ground beef, but be aware that it could be less juicy. Ground turkey or chicken can also work as a lighter alternative.
Onions: Sweet onions like Vidalia or red onions can enhance the flavor. If you want less sweetness, use yellow onions. You can also skip the caramelization step for a quicker version, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
Bread: Rye or sourdough is traditional, but whole wheat or even gluten-free bread can be used. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the juicy patty and toppings without falling apart.
Cheese: Swiss cheese adds a nutty quality, but American cheese melts beautifully if you’re after that classic melty texture. Cheddar or Monterey Jack are also great options for a sharper or creamier taste.
Butter & Olive Oil: For grilling, you can use just butter for a richer flavor, or just olive oil for a healthier option. Some people prefer using a cooking spray for a lighter approach.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can feel tricky, but it’s all about patience and temperature. It’s essential to cook them low and slow for the best results. Here’s how you can nail this step:
- Start with a medium heat to soften the onions, then reduce to low for even cooking.
- Use a frying pan to give you plenty of surface area to cook evenly.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking but not too frequently—you want those browning bits!
- For added sweetness, sprinkle a bit of sugar if you like, especially with less sweet onions.
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of Swiss or American cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for caramelizing onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce for seasoning patties
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes, including 15-20 minutes for caramelizing the onions and cooking the patties. You’ll be grilling the sandwiches for a few more minutes to get that perfect golden brown crust. It’s quick and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
First, grab a skillet and heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, set them aside for later.
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, take the ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, and if you like, a touch of Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. Mix it gently and form the mixture into 2 patties. Make sure they are slightly larger than your bread slices since they will shrink a bit while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Now, bring back the skillet you used for the onions and crank up the heat to medium-high. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping them just once, until they are cooked to your liking. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty to melt perfectly.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
Take the slices of bread and butter one side of each slice. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer the cheesy patties and top them with the caramelized onions. Then, place another slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing out.
5. Grill the Patty Melts:
Return the assembled sandwiches to the skillet. Grill them over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese inside is gooey. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
6. Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the patty melts from the skillet and slice them in half. Serve warm with a side of pickles or chips for an extra crunch. Enjoy your delicious homemade patty melts!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese for Patty Melts?
Absolutely! While Swiss and American cheese are classic choices, feel free to experiment with your favorites like cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Rye or Sourdough Bread?
No worries! You can use any bread you have on hand, such as whole wheat, white, or brioche. Just pick a sturdy bread that can hold up to the filling and grilling.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes! Caramelized onions can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet before assembling your patty melts.
How Should I Store Leftover Patty Melts?
Store any leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, covered, to help melt the cheese without burning the bread. You can also use a microwave, but the bread may lose some crispiness.
