Why You’ll Love This Patty Melt with Secret Sauce
- Simple to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples.
- Classic Comfort Food: A timeless favorite that’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Sweet onions, savory beef, and tangy sauce in every bite.
Tools You’ll Need
- Knife and cutting board
- Large skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Patty Melt with Secret Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
A Patty Melt with Secret Sauce is a diner classic that combines juicy beef, caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly toasted bread. What takes this comfort food to the next level? The tangy, creamy secret sauce that ties it all together! This recipe is perfect for a hearty lunch or an easy dinner that will please everyone at the table.
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Ingredients
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough)
For the Secret Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Secret Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the patty melts.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized (about 10-12 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef Patties
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties roughly the size of your bread slices.
- Cook the patties in the same skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melts
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices. Top with a beef patty, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, and a drizzle of the secret sauce. Place another slice of bread on top, buttered side out.
Step 5: Grill the Sandwiches
- Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Cook each sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the sandwiches in half and serve warm with extra secret sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use Good Bread: Rye bread adds a traditional flavor, but sourdough or Texas toast works well too.
- Don’t Rush the Onions: Low and slow cooking gives the onions their sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of hot sauce or extra relish for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Store leftover patties and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble fresh sandwiches as needed.
- Reheat sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! Provolone, Gouda, or American cheese all melt beautifully and taste great.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Use a plant-based patty or sautéed mushrooms as the filling.
Q3: Can I make the secret sauce in advance?
A: Yes! The sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion: A Diner Classic at Home!
This Patty Melt with Secret Sauce brings the nostalgic flavors of a classic diner right to your kitchen. The buttery bread, melty cheese, juicy beef, and tangy sauce combine for a meal that’s sure to satisfy. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit!
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Nutritional Information (per sandwich)
Calories: 620 | Protein: 34g | Carbohydrates: 42g | Fat: 38g | Fiber: 4g
Enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite of this Patty Melt and make it a staple in your comfort food rotation!
