Crispy, buttery bread stuffed with juicy beef patties, melty cheese, caramelized onions, and a tangy, creamy secret sauce. A diner classic you’ll want to make over and over again!

🍴 Ingredients

For the Patty Melts:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juicy patties)
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 slices rye bread (or sourdough)
8 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar if you prefer)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter (plus more for spreading on bread)
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Secret Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Make the Secret Sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika.
Refrigerate until ready to use.

Caramelize the Onions:

In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
Add onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until deep golden brown and caramelized (20–25 minutes).
Set aside.

Cook the Patties:

Season the ground beef with salt and pepper and divide into 4 thin, oval-shaped patties (to match the bread shape).
Cook patties in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side, until just cooked through.

Assemble the Patty Melts:

Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
Place 4 slices, buttered side down, on a flat surface.
Spread secret sauce on the unbuttered side.
Top with a slice of cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and finally another slice of bread (buttered side out).

Grill:

Cook each sandwich in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

✨ To Serve:

Slice in half and serve hot with extra secret sauce for dipping!
Perfect with fries or a simple green salad.

Want a spicy version with jalapeños and pepper jack cheese? 🔥🧀🍔