🍔 Classic Patty Melt Recipe

ngredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced

• 4 tbsp butter, divided

• 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough or Texas toast)

• 8 slices Swiss cheese (or American cheese if preferred)

• Optional: Thousand Island dressing or spicy mayo

Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions:

   • In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter.

   • Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until golden and caramelized.

   • Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the patties:

   • Divide the ground beef into 4 thin patties, about the size of your bread slices.

   • Season both sides with salt and pepper.

   • Cook in the same skillet over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.

   • Set aside.

3. Assemble the sandwiches:

   • Spread a little butter on one side of each bread slice.

   • On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer in this order:

     1. One slice of cheese

     2. Beef patty

     3. Caramelized onions

     4. Another slice of cheese

     5. Top with another bread slice (buttered side facing out)

4. Grill the sandwiches:

   • Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

   • Place each sandwich in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted — about 3–4 minutes per side.

   • Press down gently with a spatula to help everything meld together.

5. Serve:

   • Cut in half and serve hot with pickles, fries, or a side salad.

   • Optionally, add a smear of Thousand Island dressing or mayo for extra flavor.