These tasty patty melts feature juicy beef patties, gooey cheese, and sweet caramelized onions all tucked between buttery toasted bread. They’re perfect for a cozy meal!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of melted cheese and caramelized onions? It’s like a flavor hug! I love making them for lunch or a fun dinner with friends—so delicious and easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy patties. If you’re looking for leaner options, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but they’ll be less juicy. Just add a tablespoon of olive oil to keep them moist.
Onions: Sweet onions like Vidalia work well for caramelization. If you’re out of onions, consider using shallots for a milder flavor or even leeks for a different twist.
Bread: Rye bread has a strong flavor that pairs great with the cheese and meat. However, if you prefer a milder taste, sourdough works beautifully too! Gluten-free bread is an excellent alternative if you need a gluten-free option.
Cheese: Swiss is classic for patty melts, but I often use American cheese for extra creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, there are tasty vegan cheeses available as substitutes!
How Do You Make Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience. You’ll want to cook them slowly to bring out their natural sweetness. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding olive oil.
- Once hot, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally.
- For about 20-25 minutes, cook until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Low and slow is the way to go here!
- If they start to stick, add a splash of water or a little more oil to keep them moving!
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of Swiss or American cheese
- 2 tbsp butter (for spreading on the bread)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for caramelizing onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Worcestershire sauce for added flavor in beef
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy your delicious patty melts in around 40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook these onions, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to turn a beautiful golden brown and become deliciously caramelized. Once done, set them aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, take the ground beef and season it with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you want that extra flavor. Gently form this mixture into two patties, making them a little larger than your slices of bread since they will shrink slightly while cooking. This way, every bite will be tasty!
3. Cook the Patties:
Using the same skillet (to keep all those flavors), increase the heat to medium-high. Cook the seasoned patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how well done you like your beef. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the cheese melt beautifully.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
While the patties are cooking, butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side of a piece of bread, start layering: first add a cheesy beef patty, then a generous helping of the caramelized onions, and top with another slice of cheese. Finish this stack with another slice of bread, buttered side facing up.
5. Grill the Sandwich:
Remove any leftover bits from the skillet, then place it back over medium heat. Carefully place your assembled sandwich in the skillet. Grill it until the bread is golden brown and crispy—about 3-4 minutes. Flip the sandwich gently and grill the other side until it looks just as yummy!
6. Serve:
Once both sides are perfectly golden and the cheese is delightfully melted, take the patty melts out of the skillet. Let them cool for a minute, then slice them in half and serve them hot. Enjoy this cheesy, savory delight!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for Patty Melts?
Absolutely! While rye and sourdough are classic choices, you can use any bread you like. Consider using whole grain, Texas toast for a thicker sandwich, or even gluten-free bread if you have dietary restrictions.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for about 5-6 minutes on each side to help restore crispiness.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the beef patties a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just ensure they’re tightly wrapped. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes for even cooking, then proceed with grilling as usual.
What Can I Substitute for Cheese?
If you’re looking for a cheese substitute, you can use vegan cheese or omit cheese entirely for a lighter sandwich. Alternatively, try a flavorful spread like hummus or pesto for added taste without cheese.
