This Mushroom Swiss Patty Melt is a warm, savory sandwich featuring juicy beef patties, melted Swiss cheese, and flavorful sautéed mushrooms. It’s grilled to perfection between two slices of bread!
Honestly, what’s better than gooey cheese and yummy mushrooms? Every bite is a cozy hug for your taste buds. I could have one for lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer leaner meat, 90/10 works too, but it may not be as juicy. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or plant-based alternatives.
Swiss Cheese: While Swiss is traditional, you could also use Gruyère for a nuttier taste or provolone for a milder flavor. If you’re dairy-free, vegan cheeses are available that melt well!
Mushrooms: Button and cremini mushrooms are great choices. If you’re looking for something different, portobello or shiitake mushrooms can add a bold flavor. For a non-mushroom alternative, sautéed bell peppers can work too.
Bread: Rye and sourdough are both excellent choices. If you’re gluten-free, try using a gluten-free bread. I personally love the slight tang of sourdough in this dish!
Onions: For a sweeter taste, use yellow onions. If you want sharper flavors, consider red onions. Shallots are another excellent alternative for a milder flavor.
How Do You Cook a Juicy Patty Without It Puffing Up?
To ensure your patties stay juicy and flat, make a small indentation in the center before cooking. This simple step helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up. Here’s how to get the perfect patty:
- Mix the seasonings evenly into the ground beef without overworking the meat.
- Shape into two patties, about 1/2 inch thick, and press your thumb gently in the center.
- Cook in a hot skillet with butter for a nice sear, which adds flavor and keeps them juicy.
How to Make a Mushroom Swiss Patty Melt
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melt:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you should plan for about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty meal, perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Patties:
Start by seasoning the ground beef in a bowl with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix it well, then divide it into two equal parts. Shape these into patties, making a small indentation in the center of each one. This helps stop them from puffing up while they cook. Easy peasy!
2. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding a tablespoon of butter once it’s nice and hot. Place your burger patties in the skillet and cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side. After that, flip them over and sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese on top. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re cooked to your liking and the cheese is melty. Remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions:
Using the same skillet, you can add a bit more butter if needed. Toss in the sliced onions and mushrooms, and sauté them over medium heat. You want them to be soft and slightly caramelized, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season them with salt and pepper while they cook!
4. Assemble the Patty Melt:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread. Start with one slice of bread in the skillet, mayo side down. Layer it with a beef patty, then the sautéed mushrooms and onions. Add another layer of cheese on top, and cover it with a second slice of bread, mayo side up.
5. Grill the Sandwich:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip it over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. You want to make sure both sides are nice and golden and that the cheese is completely melted.
6. Serve:
Once your patty melt is done, take it out of the skillet and slice it in half. Serve it hot with your favorite sides like fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Mushroom Swiss Patty Melt!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a substitute! Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so it may not have the same depth of flavor. Consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or a bit more butter when cooking to help maintain moisture.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Swiss Cheese?
No problem! You can replace Swiss cheese with Gruyère, provolone, or even cheddar cheese. Each will give your patty melt a unique flavor while still melting nicely. Just choose a cheese that melts well for the best results!
How Can I Store Leftover Patty Melt?
To store leftovers, wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to avoid sogginess while warming it through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein, like a black bean burger or a veggie patty. You can still enjoy the sautéed mushrooms and onions with your chosen substitute for a delicious meat-free option!
