Patty Melts with Secret Sauce Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A patty melt is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. With crispy rye bread, savory beef patties, melty Swiss and cheddar cheeses, caramelized onions, and the star of the show – a creamy secret sauce – this dish is both indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a party snack, it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)

• 1 large onion (yellow onions work best)

• 8 slices rye bread (light or dark)

• 2 slices Swiss cheese

• 2 slices cheddar cheese

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ tablespoon ketchup

• ¼ cup relish

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• Butter (for grilling)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the secret sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste. Set aside in the fridge.

2. Cook the patties: Form the ground beef into patties, then season with salt and pepper. Cook the patties on a grill pan or skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your preferred level of doneness. Set aside.

3. Assemble the melts: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Spread a thin layer of secret sauce on one side of each bread slice. On one slice of bread, add a slice of Swiss cheese, a cooked beef patty, a slice of cheddar cheese, and some caramelized onions. Top with another slice of bread, sauce side down.

4. Grill the melts: Butter the outside of the sandwich and grill it in the skillet until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat for the remaining sandwiches.

5. Serve: Cut the patty melts in half diagonally and serve hot with a side of fries or salad.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Veggie version: Swap the beef patties with plant-based patties for a vegetarian-friendly patty melt.

• Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses like American, gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavors.

• Bread swap: Try using sourdough or a hearty multigrain bread for a twist on the classic rye.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the patty melt in a skillet or on a grill pan over low heat, covering it with a lid to ensure the cheese melts properly.

FAQs

What kind of bread is best for patty melts?

Rye bread is the classic choice for patty melts due to its slightly tangy flavor, but you can also use sourdough or other hearty bread.

Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the secret sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How can I make the patty melts spicier?

Add a few dashes of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to the secret sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Swiss and cheddar are traditional, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like American, pepper jack, or gouda.

How do I make the onions extra caramelized?

Cook the onions on low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to achieve a deep caramelized flavor.

Can I make these patty melts in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the assembled sandwiches in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure the sauce is spread thinly, and don’t overload it. Also, be sure to grill the sandwich on medium heat for a crispy crust.

Can I freeze patty melts?

While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the assembled, ungrilled patty melts. Wrap each in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Grill them as usual after thawing.

Can I use a different sauce for the patty melts?

Yes! You can swap out the secret sauce for other condiments like BBQ sauce, garlic aioli, or mustard, depending on your taste.

How do I make the beef patties juicy?

Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness, and avoid overcooking the patties.

Conclusion

Patty melts with secret sauce are a simple yet flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a warm, crispy sandwich that combines the best flavors of a burger and grilled cheese. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!