Ingredients
Scale
For the Beef Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices rye bread (or bread of choice)
- 8 slices cheese (Swiss, American, or a mix)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter and olive oil.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Lower the heat to medium-low, stirring every 10 minutes.
- When onions are golden and caramelized (about 45-60 minutes), deglaze the pan with apple cider vinegar. Set aside.
2. Shape and Cook the Beef Patties:
- Mix ground beef with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
- Shape into 4 thin patties, about ¼-inch thick, matching the bread’s size.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
- Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices buttered-side down on a work surface.
- Layer cheese, beef patty, caramelized onions, and more cheese.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered-side up.
4. Cook the Patty Melt:
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
- Place assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle kosher salt on the butter before cooking the sandwich.
- Sourdough, Texas toast, or brioche can substitute rye bread for a unique twist.
- Mayonnaise can replace butter for a crispier crust.
- Pre-toast the inner bread sides before assembly to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American