The Classic Patty Melt is the ultimate comfort food mash-up of a juicy hamburger and a grilled cheese sandwich. With a perfectly seasoned beef patty, caramelized onions, and melty cheese tucked between buttery grilled rye bread, this diner favorite is rich, hearty, and absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Diner Classic at Home – Bring the old-school diner vibe right to your kitchen.
- Simple Ingredients – Just beef, bread, cheese, onions, and butter—nothing fancy.
- Melty, Cheesy Goodness – Gooey cheese pulls with every bite.
- Perfect Comfort Food – Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough if preferred)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese (or American cheese for extra melt)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions – In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until soft and golden brown (about 15 minutes). Set aside.
- Make the Patties – Divide ground beef into 4 thin patties, slightly larger than your bread slices. Season with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Patties – In the same skillet, cook patties 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through and browned.
- Assemble the Patty Melt – Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice (butter side down) on the skillet, top with a slice of cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, then the second bread slice (butter side up).
- Grill to Perfection – Cook 2–3 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Serve & Enjoy – Slice in half and serve hot with pickles or fries.
Tips & Variations
- Cheese Options – Swiss is traditional, but cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack add a twist.
- Bread Choices – Rye gives classic flavor, but sourdough or Texas toast work well too.
- Add a Sauce – A swipe of Thousand Island or spicy mayo takes it up a notch.
What to Serve with Patty Melts
- Crispy French fries 🍟
- Sweet potato fries 🍠
- Classic coleslaw 🥗
- A dill pickle spear 🥒
🔥 The Classic Patty Melt is crispy, melty, and packed with flavor. It’s an old-school diner classic that never goes out of style—perfect for lunch, dinner, or a weekend indulgence.