If you’re seeking a comforting meal that combines the best parts of a burger with the warmth of a toasted sandwich, look no further than the classic patty melt. This iconic American dish, originating in diners and grills during the 1940s, has become a favorite for its crispy, cheesy layers and savory beef patty. Whether for a hearty lunch or a cozy dinner, a patty melt is the perfect solution for satisfying your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

It’s everything you love about a burger, but wrapped in the comfort of toasted bread, making it not just delicious but also easy to whip up at home. Plus, the homemade sauce adds a unique twist that makes this melt irresistible.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

6 slices rye bread (or your favorite thick bread)
6 tablespoons butter, softened
1 pound ground beef (feel free to use lean or fattier beef)
3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon real bacon bits
1 teaspoon sweet relish
1 teaspoon white sugar
6 slices cheddar cheese
6 slices Provolone cheese

HOW TO MAKE a Patty Melt:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Prepare the bread: Start by buttering one side of each of the six slices of bread. Be generous with the butter for that crispy, golden finish. Set aside.
Form and cook the patties: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix until well-blended, then form the mixture into three evenly sized patties, matching the shape of your bread slices. In a hot skillet, cook the patties on medium-high for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring they’re fully cooked through (160°F internal temperature).
Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, relish, and sugar. Stir until well combined. Set this sauce aside for later.
Toast the bread and assemble the melts: Heat a second skillet over medium-low heat. Place one slice of buttered bread (butter-side down) in the pan. Layer with two slices of cheddar, then one patty, followed by two slices of Provolone. Spread the prepared sauce on the unbuttered side of a second slice of bread and place it sauce-side down over the cheese. Toast each sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese is gooey.
Serve and enjoy: Once all three patty melts are assembled, serve them hot with your favorite sides like crispy fries, pickle spears, or a fresh salad.

HELPFUL TIPS:

Bread selection: Rye is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with sourdough, whole wheat, or even Texas toast. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to hold up to the fillings.
Cheese variations: Cheddar and Provolone work beautifully, but you can add some spice with pepper jack, or even try Gouda for a smoky touch.
Skip the mess: If you’re short on time, use pre-made Thousand Island dressing for a quick assembly.

DETAILS:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 3 servings
Category: Sandwich
Method: Griddled
Cuisine: American
Diet: Carnivore-friendly, adaptable for low-carb by using alternative bread options

NOTES:

For an even heartier sandwich, try adding a layer of crispy bacon or fried onions inside the melt. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, swap the mayo for a bit of garlic butter to toast the bread for an even richer flavor.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving):

Calories: 1242 kcal
Fat: 84g
Protein: 48g
Carbs: 78g
Fiber: 4g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use a different type of bread? Yes, you can use any thick bread like sourdough, whole wheat, or pumpernickel. Just avoid airy bread like regular sandwich loaves, as they won’t hold the fillings well.

How do I store leftover patty melts? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain that crispy texture.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

For best results, store in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the patty melt back in a skillet over medium-low heat to crisp the bread again.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Cheeseburger Soup

CONCLUSION:

The patty melt is a timeless comfort food that brings together the juiciness of a burger, the meltiness of cheese, and the crunch of toasted bread. It’s a satisfying meal that can be whipped up in no time, perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with family, this melt will surely warm your heart and your belly!