Why Make This Recipe

Perfect Patty Melts are a delicious twist on the classic burger. They combine savory beef patties with melted cheese, crispy rye bread, and a secret sauce that adds a delightful flavor. Perfect for a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner, these patty melts are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, they are simple to make and are great for gatherings or a cozy night in!

How to Make Perfect Patty Melts

Ingredients:

For the Patty Melts:

1 lb ground beef
6 slices rye bread
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slices cheddar cheese
6 slices provolone cheese
6 Tbsp butter, softened and unsalted

For the Secret Sauce:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 Tbsp chopped bacon pieces
3 Tbsp ketchup
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp relish

Directions:

Prepare the patty mixture: In a mixing bowl, mix together the ground beef, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once well combined, divide the mixture into 6 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
Cook the patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the patties. Cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your liking. Once done, take the patties out of the skillet and set them aside.
Prepare the secret sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped bacon pieces, ketchup, sugar, and relish until combined.
Assemble the Patty Melts: Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. On the unbuttered side of 3 slices of bread, place a slice of cheddar cheese, then add a cooked beef patty. Spread some of the secret sauce on top of each beef patty. Top with a slice of provolone cheese, then cover with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.
Cook the Patty Melts: Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and add the assembled sandwiches. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Once cooked, remove the patty melts from the skillet and serve immediately.

How to Serve Perfect Patty Melts

How to Store Perfect Patty Melts

If you have leftovers, let the patty melts cool to room temperature. Wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or you can use a microwave if you are in a hurry.

Tips to Make Perfect Patty Melts

Make sure not to overmix the ground beef. Mixing too much can make the patties tough.
Use a good quality butter for frying. This enhances the flavor of the bread.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the beef mixture to suit your taste.
For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the secret sauce.

Variation

You can switch up the cheeses and try using Swiss or gouda for a different flavor. For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as whole grain or sourdough.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different types of meat for the patties?
A: Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a tasty twist.

Q: Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The secret sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.

Q: How do I know when the patties are done cooking?
A: Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 160°F for ground beef. If you like your patties more done, cook them a bit longer.