These patty melts are a fun twist on burgers, bringing together juicy beef patties, cheesy goodness, and sweet caramelized onions all on toasty bread. Yum!
I love how the onions add a hint of sweetness that makes every bite special. Plus, they’re super easy to make, perfect for a cozy dinner or a cookout with friends. 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using an 80/20 blend for juicy, flavorful patties. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken also works, though the flavor will differ.
Onions: Regular yellow onions are great for caramelizing, but red onions add a nice sweetness too. If you’re in a hurry, use frozen caramelized onions as a time-saver.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic here, but feel free to experiment! Cheddar or American cheese are delicious alternatives that melt well.
Bread: Rye or sourdough are my favorites for extra texture and flavor. Whole grain or even gluten-free bread can also be used if you want a different choice.
Butter: While butter adds richness, you can substitute it with margarine or olive oil for a lighter version. Just know that butter gives the best flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is a key step in this recipe that can elevate the entire sandwich. The goal is to bring out their natural sweetness slowly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat, which helps the onions cook evenly.
- Use a mix of butter and oil for rich flavor without burning. If they start to stick, splash a little water to deglaze the pan.
- Be patient! It takes about 20-25 minutes, but it’s worth it for that deep golden color.
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 4 slices of bread (rye or sourdough recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for caramelizing onions)
- Optional: hot sauce or mustard for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. You’ll spend some time caramelizing the onions and cooking the burger patties, but don’t worry—it’s all simple and worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to turn a lovely golden brown color. If they start to stick to the pan, just add a little water to keep them from burning. This step is key for adding that sweet, rich flavor to your melts!
2. Prepare the Patties:
While your onions are caramelizing, take the ground beef and form it into two equal-sized patties. Don’t forget to season both sides with a good pinch of salt and pepper. To ensure they cook evenly, press your thumb into the center of each patty to create a small indentation.
3. Cook the Patties:
Now it’s time to cook the patties! Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil if needed. When the skillet is hot, place the patties in and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties over and let them cook for another 3-4 minutes for a nice medium doneness. During the last minute, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty so it melts beautifully.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
In a separate skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Place two slices of your chosen bread in the skillet and top each slice with a cooked patty and some of the sweet caramelized onions. Close up the sandwiches with the remaining slices of bread. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Flip them carefully to get a nice crispy crust!
5. Serve:
When your patty melts are ready, take them out of the skillet, slice them in half for easy eating, and serve with some optional hot sauce or mustard on the side. Enjoy your delicious and satisfying patty melts!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Patties?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based options for a meatless version. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may dry out more easily, so you might want to add a little olive oil or use a blend with some fat for added moisture.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Cook the caramelized onions in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to use them, reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Patty Melts?
Store leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping once, or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps keep the bread crispy!
Can I Use Different Cheese Varieties?
Yes! While Swiss cheese is recommended for its melting properties, you can use cheddar, American, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just be sure to slice or shred the cheese to ensure it melts evenly on the patties!
