Classic Patty Melt: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe You Need to Try

Classic Patty Melt is a timeless comfort food that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. This delectable sandwich, featuring a juicy beef patty nestled between two slices of perfectly grilled rye bread, is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Originating in the United States during the 1940s, the patty melt has roots in diner culture, where it quickly became a favorite for its satisfying combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions.

People love the Classic Patty Melt not only for its rich taste but also for its convenience; it’s a dish that can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The crispy exterior and gooey interior create a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Whether enjoyed as a late-night snack or a hearty lunch, the classic patty melt remains a beloved staple that brings comfort and joy to every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for optimal flavor and juiciness)
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or American cheese, if preferred)
• 4 slices of rye bread (or Texas toast for a thicker option)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise (for spreading on the bread)

Preparing the Beef Patty

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
2. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.

Caramelizing the Onions

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the thinly sliced onions.
2. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized. If the onions start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
3. Once caramelized, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside. You can keep them warm by covering them with aluminum foil.

Cooking the Beef Patties

1. In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. If needed, add a little more butter or oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
2. Once the skillet is hot, add the beef patties. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them to develop a nice crust.
3. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the patties reach your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 130°F, medium is about 140°F).
4. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.

Assembling the Patty Melt

1. While the patties are resting, prepare the bread. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. If you prefer, you can also spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the unbuttered side for added flavor.
2. In the same skillet used for the patties, reduce the heat to medium. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
3. On each slice of bread, layer one beef patty with melted cheese and a generous portion of caramelized onions.
4. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up. Press down gently to help the sandwich hold together.

Cooking the Patty Melt

1. Cook the assembled patty melts for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
2. Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, ensuring the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
3. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crispy.

Serving the Patty Melt

1. Once cooked, remove the patty melts from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. This helps to keep the cheese from oozing out too much when you cut into them.
2. Using a sharp knife, slice each patty melt in half diagonally for a classic presentation.
3. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as fries, onion rings, or a simple

   Conclusion:

   In summary, the Classic Patty Melt is a must-try recipe that perfectly marries the rich flavors of a juicy beef patty with the comforting goodness of melted cheese and caramelized onions, all nestled between two slices of perfectly toasted bread. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings a nostalgic touch to your dining experience, making it a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions. For serving suggestions, consider pairing your Classic Patty Melt with a side of crispy fries or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the sandwich. You can also experiment with variations by using different types of cheese, such as Swiss or pepper jack, or by adding toppings like sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños for an extra kick. For a lighter option, try substituting the beef patty with a turkey or veggie patty, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful meal. We encourage you to try this Classic Patty Melt recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you stick to the traditional version or put your own spin on it, we would love to hear how it turns out for you. Don’t forget to share your photos and thoughts on social media, as your culinary creations can inspire others to dive into the delicious world of patty melts. Happy cooking! Print
   

   Classic Patty Melt: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe You Need to Try

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   • Author: Maria
   • Total Time: 40 minutes
   • Yield: 4 servings 1x

   Print Recipe

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   Description

   Savor the classic Patty Melt, a delightful combination of juicy beef patties, sweet caramelized onions, and melted Swiss cheese, all nestled between crispy rye bread. This comforting sandwich is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

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   Ingredients

   Scale 1x2x3x

   • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
   • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
   • 4 slices of Swiss cheese (or American cheese)
   • 4 slices of rye bread (or Texas toast)
   • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
   • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
   • Salt and pepper, to taste
   • Optional: 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise

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   Instructions

   1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
   2. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
   3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the thinly sliced onions.
   4. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized. If the onions start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
   5. Once caramelized, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside. You can keep them warm by covering them with aluminum foil.
   6. In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. If needed, add a little more butter or oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
   7. Once the skillet is hot, add the beef patties. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them to develop a nice crust.
   8. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the patties reach your desired doneness (medium-rare is about 130°F, medium is about 140°F).
   9. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.
   10. While the patties are resting, prepare the bread. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. If you prefer, you can also spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the unbuttered side for added flavor.
   11. In the same skillet used for the patties, reduce the heat to medium. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
   12. On each slice of bread, layer one beef patty with melted cheese and a generous portion of caramelized onions.
   13. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up. Press down gently to help the sandwich hold together.
   14. Cook the assembled patty melts for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
   15. Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, ensuring the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
   16. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crispy.
   17. Once cooked, remove the patty melts from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing. This helps to keep the cheese from oozing out too much when you cut into them.
   18. Using a sharp knife, slice each patty melt in half diagonally for a classic presentation.
   19. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as fries, onion rings, or a simple salad. Enjoy your delicious homemade patty melt!

   Notes

   • For a spicier kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
   • Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor.

   • Prep Time: 20 minutes
   • Cook Time: 30 minutes