Save A classic American comfort dish featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese, all layered over golden rye bread and cooked in a cast iron skillet for an irresistible crispy finish.
I first tasted a patty melt at a roadside diner as a child, and it instantly became my go-to order. There&s something magical about the buttery crunch of rye combined with savory beef and sweet onions that always feels like a warm hug after a long day.
Ingredients
- Ground beef (80/20 blend recommended): 1 lb (450 g)
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp, divided
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Yellow onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 6 tbsp, divided
- Rye bread: 8 slices
- Swiss cheese: 8 slices
- Mayonnaise (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Form the Patties:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and pepper. Divide mixture into 4 equal patties, shaping them slightly larger than your bread slices.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat cast iron skillet over medium, add 2 tbsp butter, onions, and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring until onions are golden and caramelized, about 12 to 15 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Patties:
- Turn heat to medium-high. Add beef patties and cook for 3 to 4 minutes each side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Assemble the Patty Melts:
- Wipe skillet clean. Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place 4 slices, buttered side down, in skillet. Top with a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of Swiss cheese, then a second bread slice, buttered side up.
- Grill the Sandwiches:
- Cook over medium until bread is golden brown and cheese melts, about 3 minutes per side. Press gently with spatula for even crust.
- Serve:
- Slice each patty melt in half and serve hot.
Save Whenever we make patty melts at home, my kids rush to help layer the cheese and onions, and it&s always a fun dinner to share together around the table.
Required Tools
Cast iron skillet, mixing bowl, spatula, knife, and cutting board are all you need for perfect patty melts.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains wheat, milk, soy, and beef. Be sure to double-check all ingredient labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has around 690 calories, 39 grams fat, 42 grams carbohydrates, and 39 grams protein.
Save Patty melts are best served right from the skillet, crispy and hot. Pair them with pickles or French fries for a true diner experience.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I caramelize onions properly?
Cook thinly sliced onions over medium heat with butter and a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and sweet, about 12-15 minutes.
- → What kind of beef is best for patties?
Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for juiciness and flavor, ensuring patties remain tender after cooking.
- → Can I use cheeses other than Swiss?
Yes, cheddar or American cheese work well for a different flavor profile and melt nicely.
- → How do I get a crispy crust on the bread?
Butter the bread slices on one side before placing them in the hot cast iron skillet and press gently while cooking to develop a golden crisp.
- → What side dishes complement this skillet meal?
Pickles or classic diner-style French fries add great texture and balance to the rich flavors.
- → Is it necessary to use a cast iron skillet?
While not mandatory, cast iron ensures even heat distribution for better caramelization and a crisp crust.