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Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

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Patty melts are the ultimate diner classic, combining juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a perfectly toasted bread. Paired with a tangy and savory secret sauce, this sandwich is comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients

Scale

Serves 4

  • For the patties:
    • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
    • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the caramelized onions:
    • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • For the secret sauce:
    • 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise
    • 1 tablespoon ketchup
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 teaspoon pickle relish (sweet or dill)
    • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • For assembly:
    • 8 slices of rye or sourdough bread
    • 8 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for grilling the sandwiches)

Instructions

  • Prepare the caramelized onions:
    • In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar (if using).
    • Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Reduce heat if they brown too quickly. Set aside.
  • Make the patties:
    • In a bowl, mix the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties about the size of your bread slices.
    • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
  • Prepare the secret sauce:
    • In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Assemble the patty melts:
    • Spread a thin layer of secret sauce on one side of each bread slice.
    • On half of the bread slices, layer a slice of cheese, a cooked patty, some caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with another bread slice, sauce side facing the filling.
  • Grill the sandwiches:
    • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.
    • Grill each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
  • Serve:
    • Slice the patty melts in half and serve immediately with extra secret sauce for dipping, and perhaps a side of fries or a salad.

Notes

  • For an extra crispy crust, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese on the buttered bread before grilling.
  • Use your favorite cheese, like provolone or pepper jack, for a twist on the classic flavor.
  • The secret sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.