Name: Patty Melt Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground chuck (80/20 blend); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons oil; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt and pepper, to taste; 10 slices good quality sourdough bread (or rye bread); 10 large slices Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese; 5 tablespoons butter, softened (for buttering bread); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons pickle relish (or diced dill pickles); 1 heaping tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 11 reviews

If you are on the lookout for a cozy, flavorful sandwich that hits all the right notes of crispy, melty, and savory, this Patty Melt Recipe is your new best friend. Combining juicy, perfectly seasoned burger patties with sweet caramelized onions and gooey Monterey Jack cheese, all nestled between buttery sourdough bread, this dish turns simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. It’s a classic comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion when you want to treat yourself to something utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two browned burger patties cooking in a black cast iron pan. Each patty is textured with a crispy, darker brown crust with some shiny spots from the oil sizzling around them. The pan surface is shiny with hot cooking oil, and small bits of cooked residue are visible near the patties. The pan is set on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Patty Melt Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward but essential ingredients that each bring their own magic to the final dish. From the juicy ground chuck that forms the perfect patty base to the rich, melted cheese and caramelized onions that add depth, every component plays a crucial role in creating those iconic layers of flavor and texture.

Ground chuck (80/20 blend): The ideal fat content ensures juicy, flavorful patties that stay tender.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural beef flavor.
Yellow onions (thinly sliced): These caramelize beautifully and add a sweet, savory contrast.
Oil: Used to cook the onions and patties evenly without sticking.
Butter (for onions and bread): Adds richness and helps achieve that crispy golden crust on the bread.
Sourdough bread (or rye bread): A sturdy, flavorful bread that crisps up perfectly to hold all the fillings.
Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese slices: Melts smoothly, enveloping the patty in gooey goodness.
Mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, paprika: These come together to make a tangy, creamy burger sauce that elevates every bite.

How to Make Patty Melt Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Sauce

The secret to an unforgettable Patty Melt Recipe is in the tangy burger sauce. Start by whisking together mayonnaise, ketchup, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. This sauce is going to give you bursts of flavor and moisture that perfectly complement the savory patties and onions.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Next, gently cook the thinly sliced yellow onions in a mix of butter and oil over medium heat. Stir frequently as they soften and turn a deep golden brown, which usually takes about 20 to 25 minutes. The slow caramelization is what transforms raw onions into the sweet, rich layer that makes the Patty Melt Recipe shine. Don’t hesitate to add a splash of water if they start sticking.

Step 3: Form the Burger Patties

Divide your ground chuck into five equal portions and shape them into thin patties about the size of your bread slices. Handle the meat gently to keep the patties tender. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper to bring out the best flavors in your beef.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Heat your griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Cook each patty for 3 to 4 minutes per side until they reach medium-rare or your preferred doneness. The goal is juicy, slightly pink centers because they’ll continue cooking when assembled, keeping the patties nice and tender in your Patty Melt Recipe.

Step 5: Assemble and Grill the Patty Melts

Wipe the pan clean and turn the heat down to medium-low. Butter one side of each bread slice softly and place them buttered side down on the griddle. Layer each with cheese, a cooked patty, a spoonful of caramelized onions, a drizzle of that flavorful burger sauce, another slice of cheese, and top with a second bread slice buttered side up. Grill carefully for a few minutes on each side until the bread is perfectly toasted golden brown and the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your Patty Melts in half and serve them hot with any extra burger sauce on the side for dipping. Every bite offers a delicious combination of textures and flavors that will satisfy your comfort food cravings like no other!

How to Serve Patty Melt Recipe

The image shows a sandwich cut in half and stacked, each half revealing three clear layers inside. The top and bottom layers are toasted golden-brown bread slices with a slightly crispy texture. The middle layer is thick ground beef cooked to medium, with a juicy pink center and a crumbly texture. Above the beef is a creamy, light beige sauce that also drips slightly onto the white plate beneath the sandwich. The sandwich is set against a white marbled surface, with some scattered crumbs and sauce drops around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A little crisp dill pickle or a handful of fresh, tangy sauerkraut on the side makes an excellent pairing, adding a bright contrast to the rich, cheesy sandwich. You can also sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on the burger sauce for an extra smoky kick right at the table.

Side Dishes

Classic side dishes like crispy French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad work beautifully. For something heartier, a bowl of homemade tomato soup elevates the meal into a cozy, café-style experience that’s perfect any day.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try cutting the Patty Melt Recipe into sliders for a party platter or serve open-faced with an extra heap of caramelized onions and melted cheese for a shareable appetizer. You can also swap sourdough for rye to add a bit of that tangy rye flavor that’s traditional but still oh-so-yummy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Patty Melts tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the burger sauce separate if possible to keep the bread from becoming soggy.

Freezing

While fresh is best, you can freeze fully assembled and wrapped Patty Melts for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep in mind the bread may lose some crispness, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Reheating

Reheat your Patty Melt in a skillet over low to medium heat, covered with a lid to help melt the cheese again without burning the bread. Alternatively, use an oven set to 350°F, wrapped loosely in foil, for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and melty.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese in this Patty Melt Recipe?

Absolutely! While Monterey Jack and Swiss are classic choices for their meltability and flavor, you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even mozzarella depending on your taste preference.

Is it necessary to caramelize the onions?

Caramelizing the onions adds a sweet, deep flavor that really defines the Patty Melt. You can use raw onions for a sharper bite, but caramelized onions are a key element that makes this sandwich special.

Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the patties a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Be sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking for even cooking results.

What bread works best for Patty Melts?

Sourdough and rye bread are traditional and popular options due to their sturdy texture and complementary flavor. Choose a good-quality loaf with a firm crust to hold all the fillings well.

Can this recipe be doubled or halved easily?

Definitely! The Patty Melt Recipe is very versatile and scales up or down well. Just keep the ingredient ratios the same, and adjust your cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts

This Patty Melt Recipe isn’t just a sandwich; it’s a celebration of classic flavors and textures that come together for an unforgettable meal. If you want a comforting, tasty dish that feels like a little bit of home, dive in and try making it yourself—you won’t regret it!