These patty melts are a delicious treat with juicy beef patties and rich, sweet caramelized onions. Grilled until golden, they’re perfect for a cozy night in or a casual meal.
I can’t resist that gooey cheese melting over the crispy bread! Just make sure to have some napkins handy—it can get a bit messy, but that’s half the fun! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 85% lean beef for juicy patties. If you want to go leaner, 90% works too, but may be drier. For a healthier twist, try ground turkey or a plant-based alternative like chickpeas or black beans.
Onions: Sweet yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing, but you can also use red onions for a slightly sharper flavor. If you’re in a hurry, shallots are a great alternative, cooking faster with a rich taste.
Cheese: Swiss is traditional, but I love cheddar for its sharpness. You could also use pepper jack for a kick or even mozzarella if you prefer something milder.
Bread: Rye and sourdough add fantastic flavor. If you can’t find these, whole wheat or even a nice brioche works well too. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is really about patience. Start them on medium-low heat to allow the natural sugars to break down. Here’s how:
- Heat oil and butter in a skillet.
- Add sliced onions and toss them gently to coat.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring often. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
- Season with a pinch of salt about halfway through to help release moisture and enhance sweetness.
Don’t rush it, as this slow cooking brings out that sweet flavor we aim for. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Worcestershire sauce (1 tsp for seasoning patties)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you should be ready to serve these delicious patty melts in around 40 minutes. Perfect for a satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Grab a medium skillet and set your stove to medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once they’re melted together, toss in the thinly sliced onions. Keep stirring them occasionally as they cook, which should take around 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the onions to become soft, sweet, and golden brown. Once done, season with a bit of salt and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
While the onions are caramelizing, take the ground beef and divide it into 2 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty about ¾ inch thick. Season each patty with salt and pepper. If you like, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Using the same skillet you used for the onions, turn the heat up to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once it melts, add the beef patties to the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on one side until they’re nicely browned, then flip them over. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the centers are no longer pink and the patties reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Before they finish cooking, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty to let it melt.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
On your countertop, lay out 2 slices of your bread. Place one cooked patty on each slice, then add the delicious caramelized onions on top. If you want more cheese, feel free to add another slice. Finally, top with the remaining slices of bread to complete your sandwiches.
5. Grill the Sandwiches:
Carefully place the assembled patty melts back into the skillet over medium heat. If the skillet is looking dry, add a little more butter. Grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Flip them over carefully and press down slightly with a spatula to get an even cook. Grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
6. Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the patty melts from the skillet. If you like, cut them in half to show off the melty goodness inside. Serve them hot with your favorite side, whether that’s fries, a nice salad, or something else you love!
Enjoy your delicious patty melts with rich caramelized onions!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster than beef, so watch for the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Rye or Sourdough Bread?
No worries! You can use any bread you have on hand, such as whole wheat, white, or even gluten-free options. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart!
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can caramelize the onions a day ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and simply reheat them in the skillet before assembling your patty melts. They’ll be just as delicious!
How to Store Leftover Patty Melts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a bit of butter to help crisp up the bread again!
