ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Savor the Classic Patty Melt

Sharing is caring!

When dinner calls for something satisfying, flavorful, and straightforward, nothing hits the mark quite like a classic patty melt. This sandwich seamlessly blends juicy beef patties, layers of melted cheddar and Provolone cheese, and a creamy sauce, all pressed between slices of golden, buttery rye bread. The patty melt is a delicious fusion of a burger and a grilled cheese, and it’s become a staple in diners and homes alike due to its savory taste and satisfying texture.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Savor the Classic Patty Melt

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Sink your teeth into this Classic Patty Melt, where juicy beef meets caramelized onions, melted cheese, and crispy rye bread. It’s the perfect blend of savory goodness and satisfying crunch!

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • Rye Bread: 6 slices (adds a hearty texture and slightly tangy flavor)
  • Butter: 6 tablespoons, softened (for a perfectly crisped, golden exterior)
  • Ground Beef: 1 pound (use a blend with about 80% lean meat for best flavor and moisture)
  • Black Pepper: 3/4 teaspoon (adds a touch of spice and depth)
  • Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (enhances the meat’s natural flavor)
  • Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (provides a mild sweetness without overpowering the other flavors)
  • Mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons (adds creaminess to the sauce)
  • Ketchup: 2 tablespoons (offers a hint of tanginess)
  • Bacon Bits: 1 tablespoon (brings a smoky flavor to the sauce)
  • Sweet Relish: 1 teaspoon (balances the sauce with a hint of sweetness)
  • White Sugar: 1 teaspoon (adds subtle sweetness to the sauce)
  • Cheddar Cheese: 6 slices (melts beautifully, bringing a sharp, tangy flavor)
  • Provolone Cheese: 6 slices (mild and creamy, complements the cheddar perfectly)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  • Butter the Bread: Begin by thoroughly buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. This will ensure a golden, crisp crust when cooking the sandwiches. Set aside the bread once all slices are buttered.

Step 2: Season and Shape the Patties

  • Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with black pepper, sea salt, and onion powder, stirring until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
  • Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into three equal parts, shaping each into a patty that will fit the shape of the rye bread slices. Aim for patties that are about 1/2 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

  • Heat the Skillet: Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, then add the patties.
  • Sear the Patties: Cook each patty for 2-3 minutes on the first side until it develops a nice brown crust. Carefully flip the patties to avoid breaking them, cooking for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
  • Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when done. Use a digital thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Step 4: Prepare the Special Sauce

  • Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, sweet relish, and white sugar. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended, creating a creamy, tangy sauce. Set this aside for assembly.

Step 5: Assemble and Cook the Patty Melts

  • Layer the Ingredients: Place a slice of bread butter-side down on a second preheated skillet over medium-low heat. Add two slices of cheddar cheese on the bread, followed by a cooked patty, then two slices of Provolone cheese.
  • Add the Sauce: Spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce over the unbuttered side of a second slice of bread. Place this bread slice (sauce-side down) on top of the Provolone cheese.
  • Toast the Patty Melts: Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Repeat this step for each patty melt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once cooked, remove the patty melts from the skillet, cut them in half if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Bread Options: If rye bread isn’t available, sourdough or whole-grain bread can work as alternatives. These options have robust flavors that complement the patty melt well.
  • Cheese Alternatives: For a twist on the classic recipe, swap out Provolone with Swiss cheese or even Gruyère for a nuttier flavor. Alternatively, American cheese melts beautifully and adds extra creaminess.
  • Ground Beef Choices: While 80% lean beef offers the best flavor and juiciness, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter patty melt. Just ensure it’s cooked to the proper internal temperature.
  • Author: Paula Susan
  • Prep Time: 20 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 Minutes

The Appeal of the Classic Patty Melt

With roots tracing back to diners of the 1940s and 1950s, the patty melt is an icon of American comfort food. Unlike a standard burger, a patty melt uses rye bread instead of a bun, giving it a distinct, robust flavor that complements the beefy goodness. The bread’s slight tanginess, the richness of the buttery exterior, and the contrast of the cheeses create an irresistible combination. The patty melt has a bit of everything—juicy beef, gooey cheese, crunchy bread, and creamy, tangy sauce—making it the ultimate indulgent meal. Plus, it’s an ideal choice for home cooks who want a quick, satisfying dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need for three delicious servings of patty melts:

  • Rye Bread: 6 slices (adds a hearty texture and slightly tangy flavor)
  • Butter: 6 tablespoons, softened (for a perfectly crisped, golden exterior)
  • Ground Beef: 1 pound (use a blend with about 80% lean meat for best flavor and moisture)
  • Black Pepper: 3/4 teaspoon (adds a touch of spice and depth)
  • Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (enhances the meat’s natural flavor)
  • Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (provides a mild sweetness without overpowering the other flavors)
  • Mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons (adds creaminess to the sauce)
  • Ketchup: 2 tablespoons (offers a hint of tanginess)
  • Bacon Bits: 1 tablespoon (brings a smoky flavor to the sauce)
  • Sweet Relish: 1 teaspoon (balances the sauce with a hint of sweetness)
  • White Sugar: 1 teaspoon (adds subtle sweetness to the sauce)
  • Cheddar Cheese: 6 slices (melts beautifully, bringing a sharp, tangy flavor)
  • Provolone Cheese: 6 slices (mild and creamy, complements the cheddar perfectly)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  • Butter the Bread: Begin by thoroughly buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. This will ensure a golden, crisp crust when cooking the sandwiches. Set aside the bread once all slices are buttered.

Step 2: Season and Shape the Patties

  • Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with black pepper, sea salt, and onion powder, stirring until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
  • Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into three equal parts, shaping each into a patty that will fit the shape of the rye bread slices. Aim for patties that are about 1/2 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

  • Heat the Skillet: Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, then add the patties.
  • Sear the Patties: Cook each patty for 2-3 minutes on the first side until it develops a nice brown crust. Carefully flip the patties to avoid breaking them, cooking for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
  • Finish Cooking: Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 5 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when done. Use a digital thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Step 4: Prepare the Special Sauce

  • Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, sweet relish, and white sugar. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended, creating a creamy, tangy sauce. Set this aside for assembly.

Step 5: Assemble and Cook the Patty Melts

  • Layer the Ingredients: Place a slice of bread butter-side down on a second preheated skillet over medium-low heat. Add two slices of cheddar cheese on the bread, followed by a cooked patty, then two slices of Provolone cheese.
  • Add the Sauce: Spread a generous amount of the prepared sauce over the unbuttered side of a second slice of bread. Place this bread slice (sauce-side down) on top of the Provolone cheese.
  • Toast the Patty Melts: Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted. Repeat this step for each patty melt.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once cooked, remove the patty melts from the skillet, cut them in half if desired, and serve hot.

Flavor and Texture Descriptions

Imagine biting into this patty melt: the outside is perfectly toasted, with a satisfying crunch that gives way to a warm, juicy patty nestled between layers of rich, melted cheese. The cheddar offers a sharp, tangy kick, while the Provolone provides a smooth, creamy balance. As you taste the beef, the notes of black pepper and onion powder shine through, enhancing the savory profile. Each bite is enriched by the sauce, which brings a delightful sweetness and tang from the ketchup, relish, and bacon bits.

The rye bread’s unique flavor is unmistakable, lending the sandwich a rustic, hearty taste that complements the richness of the cheese and beef. The buttered exterior adds a hint of saltiness, while the sauce’s creamy texture unifies each bite.

Tips for Success

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Bread Options: If rye bread isn’t available, sourdough or whole-grain bread can work as alternatives. These options have robust flavors that complement the patty melt well.
  • Cheese Alternatives: For a twist on the classic recipe, swap out Provolone with Swiss cheese or even Gruyère for a nuttier flavor. Alternatively, American cheese melts beautifully and adds extra creaminess.
  • Ground Beef Choices: While 80% lean beef offers the best flavor and juiciness, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter patty melt. Just ensure it’s cooked to the proper internal temperature.

Flavor Variations

  • Caramelized Onions: Add caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness and depth. Simply sauté thinly sliced onions in a little butter over low heat until they turn golden brown and tender.
  • Mushroom Melt: Sautéed mushrooms can be a great addition, bringing earthy flavors that work well with the beef and cheese.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a few slices of pickled jalapeños to the sauce for a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions

  • Sides: Serve with a side of crispy French fries, a simple green salad, or a classic tomato soup for a complete meal.
  • Dips: Pair the patty melts with extra sauce on the side or a small bowl of tangy mustard for added flavor.
  • Garnishes: Top with a handful of fresh arugula or spinach just before closing the sandwich for a hint of freshness.

Final Thoughts

The classic patty melt is more than just a sandwich; it’s a comforting dish that brings together beloved flavors and textures in a way few other recipes do. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it easy for anyone to create a restaurant-quality patty melt at home.

ADVERTISEMENT

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star