Classic Patty Melt with Gooey Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Classic Patty Melt with Gooey Cheese and Caramelized Onions

Take your sandwich game to the next level with this Classic Patty Melt! Combining a juicy beef patty, perfectly caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled between crispy, buttery bread, this recipe is pure comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack, this patty melt will satisfy every craving. Let’s get started!


Ingredients

For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for the best flavor)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the Sandwich:

  • 8 slices of rye or sourdough bread
  • 2 tbsp softened butter
  • 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices of American cheese (optional for extra creaminess)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions

  1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Sprinkle with sugar if you prefer sweeter onions. Set aside.

2. Cook the Beef Patties

  1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into thin, rectangular patties (to match your bread size).
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Assemble the Patty Melts

  1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
  2. On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer shredded cheese, a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, and a slice of American cheese (if using).
  3. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side facing up.

4. Grill the Sandwiches

  1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula.
  2. Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

5. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Slice each patty melt in half and serve immediately while warm and gooey.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful: Juicy beef patties paired with caramelized onions and melted cheese create the perfect bite.
  • Crispy and Buttery: Toasted bread adds crunch and a buttery finish to every bite.
  • Customizable: Switch up the cheese or bread for your own twist on this classic.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Thin Patties Are Key: Shaping the patties thinly ensures they cook quickly and fit perfectly on the bread.
  2. Use a Mix of Cheeses: Combining Swiss and cheddar gives a rich, creamy flavor.
  3. Don’t Rush the Onions: Low and slow cooking ensures perfectly caramelized onions with deep flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Rye, sourdough, or even brioche work well for this recipe.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover sandwiches in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness.

3. Can I use pre-cooked burger patties?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked patties make this recipe even quicker to prepare.


Serving Suggestions

Pair your Patty Melt with:

  • Sweet Potato Fries: A crispy and slightly sweet side to balance the savory sandwich.
  • Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch and complements the richness.
  • Tomato Soup: Perfect for dipping the crispy, cheesy sandwich.

Conclusion

This Classic Patty Melt with Gooey Cheese and Caramelized Onions is a sandwich lover’s dream! Whether you’re making it for yourself or serving a crowd, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. From the buttery bread to the cheesy, meaty filling, every bite is a comforting delight. Try it today and elevate your sandwich game!

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