Patty Melts with Caramelized Onions and Swiss Cheese Recipe

The patty melt is a beloved sandwich that combines the best of a juicy burger and a grilled cheese. Perfectly caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese, and a golden rye bread crust come together in this savory delight. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready in about 45 minutes, this dish is a culinary classic that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Serves: 4 sandwiches

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups finely sliced onions (from 1 large onion)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt

For the Patties:

• 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce

For the Sandwich:

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 8 slices rye bread
• 8 oz Swiss cheese, sliced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.
3. Lower the heat and stir in 2 tbsp of unsalted butter, garlic powder, and kosher salt.
4. Cook the onions for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized. Set them aside in a bowl.

2. Make the Patties

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, kosher salt, onion powder, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into thin oval patties to match the size of your bread slices.
3. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Lay out the rye bread slices and butter one side of each slice (using approximately 1/2 tbsp of butter per slice).
2. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, place one slice of Swiss cheese.
3. Add a patty on top of the cheese, followed by a generous scoop of caramelized onions.
4. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese and close the sandwich with the remaining bread, buttered side facing out.

4. Grill the Patty Melts

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place the sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
3. Transfer to a cutting board and slice each sandwich in half before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your patty melts with classic sides like crispy French fries, a tangy coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. For an extra kick, serve with a side of ketchup, mustard, or a tangy thousand island dressing for dipping.

Patty melts are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary. With gooey cheese, flavorful beef patties, and sweet caramelized onions all sandwiched between crispy, buttery rye bread, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re sharing it with family or indulging on your own, every bite of this patty melt is pure comfort. Try it tonight, and enjoy a classic diner experience right in your own kitchen!