These patty melts are simply the best! Juicy beef patties are grilled to perfection and topped with sweet caramelized onions, all nestled between toasty bread and gooey cheese.
Who doesn’t love cheese that stretches, right? I like to serve them with a side of crispy fries—perfect for a fun meal at home. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use an 80/20 blend to get that juicy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken, though they won’t be as rich in flavor.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing. If you’re in a pinch, sweet onions like Vidalia work wonderfully! Avoid red onions as they can taste sharper when cooked down.
Rye Bread: Rye gives a great flavor, but you can swap it with whole wheat or sourdough bread if you’re not a fan of rye. Just be aware that the taste will change slightly.
Cheese: Swiss is classic, but cheddar works too, providing a sharper taste. Gruyère could be a delicious alternative, giving a nutty flavor that complements the burger nicely.
How Do I Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions takes time and patience, but it’s worth it for that sweet flavor! First, make sure your skillet is at medium heat. Adding a pinch of salt helps draw out moisture, speeding up the caramelization. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with sliced onions in a hot skillet with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes.
- Look for a golden-brown color. If they stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
Take your time, and let those onions shine—they’re the star of your patty melt!
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or cheddar cheese)
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: dijon mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes caramelizing the onions, while also preparing the burgers. The cooking of the melted sandwiches will take another 10 minutes or so. In total, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelizing the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to become caramelized and a deep golden brown. Once done, set them aside and keep them warm.
2. Preparing the Burger Patties:
While your onions are cooking, take the ground beef and season it with salt and pepper. Divide the meat into two equal portions and shape each into a burger patty about 3/4 inch thick. This ensures nice, juicy burgers!
3. Cooking the Burger Patties:
In the same skillet where you cooked the onions (you can add a bit more oil if needed), increase the heat to medium-high. Add the burger patties and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. During the last minute, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty so it can melt nicely.
4. Preparing the Bread:
While the burgers are cooking, preheat another skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. This will give your sandwiches a lovely golden crust!
5. Assembling the Patty Melts:
To put everything together, place one slice of bread butter-side down on the skillet. Start layering by adding a slice of cheese, then the cooked burger patty, a generous amount of caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Finally, top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
6. Cooking the Sandwiches:
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown. Carefully flip it and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is all melted. This creates that perfect patty melt!
7. Serving:
Once both sides are golden and crispy, take the sandwich out of the skillet. Slice it in half and serve warm. If you’d like a little extra kick, spread some dijon mustard on the inside before you assemble. Enjoy your delicious patty melt!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be drier than beef, so consider adding a bit of olive oil or even a splash of broth to keep the patties juicy while cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Patty Melts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over low heat for even warming, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option. If using the microwave, we recommend placing a damp paper towel over the sandwich to help maintain moisture.
Can I Make Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week! Just reheat them on the stove or in the microwave before adding them to your patty melts for that delicious flavor.
What Type of Cheese Works Best for Patty Melts?
While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses too! Cheddar adds a nice sharpness, while provolone or pepper jack can bring a delightful twist. Just aim for a cheese that melts well for the best patty melt experience!
