Go Back

Classic Patty Melt Sandwich

A classic diner-style patty melt made with juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and perfectly grilled bread. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and full of comforting flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 30 minutesTotal Time: 40 minutesServings: 2 sandwichesCategory: Main Dish / SandwichCuisine: AmericanMethod: Pan-Grilling

Print Recipe
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Patty Melts
  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter for onions
  • 4 slices sourdough bread or rye bread
  • 2 tablespoons butter softened (for bread)
  • 4 slices Swiss cheese or cheddar/American

Method
 

  1. Caramelize the Onions
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add butter and sliced onions. Cook slowly for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and deeply golden. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook the Beef Patties
  4. Shape ground beef into thin patties slightly larger than the bread. Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot skillet until browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove and rest briefly.
  5. Assemble the Sandwiches
  6. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place one slice butter-side down in the skillet. Add cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, then top with another slice of bread (butter-side up).
  7. Grill Until Golden
  8. Cook over medium heat until the bread is golden and crisp and the cheese melts. Flip carefully and repeat on the other side.
  9. Serve
  10. Slice in half and serve immediately while hot and melty.