Classic Patty Melt

There are certain meals that instantly transport you back to simpler times, and this Classic Patty Melt Recipe is one of them. For me, it brings back memories of my grandfather. He and my grandmother loved to go out to eat (when I was a kid, it was a REAL treat to get to go out with them). They had a handful of favorite places to eat and he usually ordered the same exact thing from whichever one he was eating at. A patty melt was his go-to at Eat N’ Park and anytime I see that restaurant it takes me back and makes me remember him and his favorite sandwich.

As you probably have guessed… ground beef is a STAPLE in our house, so often a good burger is on the menu. When I only have bread to serve it on… you bet we are going old school with a patty melt- and, yes, he’s on my mind the whole time!!

Classic Patty Melt

Ingredients

• 1 lb 450 g ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 4 slices rye bread (we also like it on any thick sliced bread like Italian or brioche)

• 4 slices Swiss cheese

• 1 medium onion thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter plus more for bread

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tablespoon oil

Instructions

Caramelize the onions

• Heat oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.

• Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until soft, golden, and sweet (about 8–10 minutes).

Remove from pan and set aside.

• Form the patties

• Divide beef into 2 thin oval patties shaped to match bread size.

• Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.

  
  

  Cook the burgers

  • In the same skillet, cook patties over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side until fully cooked.

  • Transfer to a plate.

  Assemble the melts

  • Butter one side of each bread slice.

  • On the unbuttered side, layer:

  • Swiss cheese

  • Beef patty

  • Caramelized onions

  • Another slice of Swiss cheese

  • Top with another slice of bread (buttered side facing out).

  Grill to perfection

  • Place sandwiches in the skillet over medium heat.

  • Cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is fully melted.

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My personal fav:

Mushroom Swiss Patty Melt

Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami flavor.