Ultimate Patty Melt with Secret Sauce

 

Ingredients:

For the Patty Melt:

1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon butter (for cooking patties)

1 large onion, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for caramelizing onions)

4 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar/American cheese)

4 slices rye bread (or sourdough for a twist)

2 tablespoons mayonnaise (for grilling the bread)

For the Secret Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Secret Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the patty melt.

2. Caramelize the Onions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and soft (about 20-25 minutes).

3. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Beef Patties

1. In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.

2. Divide the meat into two thin, wide patties (slightly larger than the bread slices since they’ll shrink).

3. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through.

4. Remove and set aside.

4. Assemble the Patty Melt:

1 Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each bread slice (this helps achieve a golden, crispy crust).

2. On the non-mayo side, spread a spoonful of secret sauce.

3. Place a slice of cheese, followed by a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with another slice of bread (mayo side facing out).

5. Grill the Patty Melt:

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.

2. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.

3. Flip carefully and repeat on the other side.

6. Serve:

Let the patty melt rest for a minute before slicing.

Serve with extra secret sauce for dipping and a side of fries or pickles.

Tips for the Best Patty Melt:

Use good-quality rye bread for authentic flavor.

Don’t rush caramelizing the onions—they add a rich, sweet flavor.

Pressing the sandwich 

lightly while cooking helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.

Enjoy your ultimate patty melt with gooey cheese, savory beef, and creamy, tangy sauce!