These patty melts are a tasty treat with juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and sweet caramelized onions all nestled between crispy bread. Yum!
When I make these, my kitchen smells amazing! I love that each bite brings a warm, toasty crunch followed by melting goodness. Perfect with a side of pickles! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal for juicy patties. If you’re looking for healthier options, try lean turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using a plant-based meat substitute or a hearty black bean patty.
Onions: Large yellow onions work best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you prefer a milder taste, use sweet onions like Vidalia. Red onions can also work, giving a slightly different flavor.
Rye Bread: Traditional rye bread gives a great taste, but you can use whole wheat or sourdough for a different twist. Gluten-free bread is also an option if needed.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavor. If you can’t find it, Gruyère or provolone are tasty substitutes. For a sharper taste, try aged cheddar.
Butter: While I love the classic taste of butter, you can use margarine or olive oil if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions is a simple process, but it does take patience! The goal is to slowly cook the onions until they’re soft and sweet. Here’s how:
- Start with medium-low heat and add oil to your skillet.
- Add sliced onions and stir them until coated. Cook slowly for 20-30 minutes.
- Stir occasionally, allowing them to brown evenly. If using garlic, add it in the last 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Enjoy the amazing aroma as they cook down!
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp butter (for spreading)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp garlic powder or minced garlic
For The Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking onions)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 50-60 minutes in total. Plan for about 30 minutes to caramelize the onions, while you prepare and cook the beef patties—typically another 20-30 minutes. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add your sliced onions and stir them so that they are well-coated with oil. Let them cook slowly, stirring occasionally for about 20-30 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and sweetly caramelized. If you’d like to include garlic powder or minced garlic, add it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
While your onions are getting all caramelized and lovely, take your ground beef and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty and season both sides with salt and pepper. That’s it—simple and tasty!
3. Cook the Patties:
Using the same skillet (to take advantage of those leftover flavors!), increase the heat to medium-high. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your liking. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the skillet. This will help the cheese melt perfectly over your patties.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. In the same skillet where you cooked the patties, place two slices of bread, buttered side down. On top of each slice of bread, layer a cheesy patty followed by a generous scoop of your caramelized onions. Then, place another slice of bread on top, with the buttered side facing up.
5. Grill the Sandwiches:
Cook the assembled sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy. If the heat is too high and you notice burning, lower the heat to make sure the insides heat through without any burnt bits.
6. Serve:
Once grilled to perfection, remove the patty melts from the skillet and cut them in half. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh side salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Patty Melts?
Absolutely! While rye bread is traditional, you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or even white bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling. If you opt for a softer bread, consider toasting it lightly first for extra structure.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Swiss Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute Swiss cheese with other melty cheeses like Gruyère, provolone, or even cheddar. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
How Do I Store Leftover Patty Melts?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or in the microwave for quicker results. The skillet method helps to keep the bread crispy!
Can I Add Other Toppings to My Patty Melts?
Definitely! Feel free to add some sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or even a slice of tomato for extra flavor. Just be cautious not to overfill the sandwich, as it may become difficult to grill evenly.
