These patty melts are a mouthwatering blend of juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and sweet, caramelized onions, all grilled on toasty bread. What’s not to love?
Honestly, the caramelized onions take these melts to another level. When I make them, my kitchen smells amazing, and the taste is simply unbeatable! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind these will be less fatty and flavorful.
Bread: Rye is traditional, but sourdough adds a nice tang. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free bread options that hold up well. Personally, I love a hearty whole grain bread for added texture.
Onions: Sweet yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing, but you can use red or white onions too. They may have different sweetness levels, so adjust cooking time accordingly. If you’re in a pinch, shallots can add a great flavor as well.
Cheese: Swiss is classic, but cheddar brings a sharp kick. For a unique twist, try pepper jack for some heat or a creamy gouda for richness! You can also make it dairy-free using a plant-based cheese.
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key for that sweet, rich flavor in your patty melts. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat up a skillet on medium heat, then add the butter and olive oil.
- Once the butter melts, toss in the sliced onions and stir them well to get them coated.
- Sprinkle on a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture. Cook for about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir occasionally, letting them cook down slowly until they turn golden and caramelized.
- If they start to brown too fast, lower the heat and keep stirring!
This slow cooking method really enhances the sweetness and brings out that amazing flavor—definitely worth the patience!
How to Make the Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce for seasoning
- Additional butter for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes of cooking. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes making these delicious patty melts! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating your large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, letting them melt together. Once melted, toss in the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat them in the buttery goodness. Sprinkle a bit of salt on top to help with the caramelization. Cook the onions for about 15-20 minutes, giving them a stir every few minutes. You want them to become golden brown and beautifully sweet. Once done, take them off the heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, take the ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, and any optional flavors like garlic powder or Worcestershire sauce. Mix it gently to combine. Then, shape the seasoned meat into two evenly sized patties, making sure they are slightly larger than the bread since they will shrink a bit while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Using the same skillet you used for the onions (this will add extra flavor), increase the heat to medium-high. Place your patties in the skillet and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are cooked to your liking. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty to let it melt perfectly. Yum!
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
Now it’s time to put your patty melts together! Take one slice of your chosen bread and add the cheesy patty on top. Pile on some luscious caramelized onions, and then top it with another slice of bread. Repeat this for all the sandwiches.
5. Grill the Sandwiches:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat back to medium. Add a bit of extra butter to the pan, allowing it to melt. Carefully place your assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. For even grilling, you can press the sandwiches down slightly with a spatula or another skillet.
6. Serve:
Once your patty melts are perfectly golden and crispy on both sides, remove them from the skillet. Let them sit for a minute before cutting them in half. Serve warm, and if you like, add some pickles or fries on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade patty melts!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can work well for this recipe, but keep in mind that they tend to be leaner, so they might benefit from a bit of extra seasoning and moisture. Consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or some diced onions to keep the patties juicy.
How Do I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make patty melts dairy-free, simply choose non-dairy cheese alternatives for the melting layer. Also, ensure your butter is replaced with a dairy-free spread or olive oil for grilling. The sandwich will still be delicious and satisfying!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Rye or Sourdough Bread?
No problem! You can use any type of bread you have on hand, such as whole wheat, white, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without getting soggy.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes! Caramelized onions can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat them in the skillet over low heat before assembling your patty melts, and they’ll be just as delicious.
