If you are craving a sandwich that wraps juicy, flavorful beef with melty Swiss cheese and sweet, luscious caramelized onions between perfectly toasted sourdough bread, then this Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe is exactly what you need. This timeless American diner favorite combines simple ingredients for a truly unforgettable comfort food experience. The balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors ensures every bite is a mouthwatering delight that feels just like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it relies on a handful of essential ingredients, each thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture that are simple but satisfying. From the richness of butter and mayonnaise to the savory punch of Worcestershire sauce, everything plays its part beautifully.
- Salted butter (4 tablespoons): Softened butter adds rich flavor and helps achieve that perfectly crisp, golden crust on the bread.
- Mayonnaise (4 tablespoons): Mixed with butter, it creates a creamy spread that toasts nicely and adds moisture.
- Ground beef, 80/20 (1 pound): The fat content delivers juicy, flavorful patties that stay tender.
- Onion powder (2 teaspoons): Enhances the savory depth of the beef without overpowering the caramelized onions.
- Garlic powder (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle warmth that complements the beef perfectly.
- Kosher salt (1 ½ teaspoons, divided): Seasoning is key — half incorporated into the meat and half sprinkled on before cooking to boost flavor.
- Freshly cracked black pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides a gentle spice that balances the richness.
- Worcestershire sauce (2 teaspoons): Brings umami punch and a hint of tanginess, enhancing the beef’s taste.
- Sourdough bread (8 slices): Its sturdy texture holds up well to grilling and adds a slightly tangy flavor.
- Swiss cheese (8 slices): Melts beautifully and lends a mild, nutty creaminess to the sandwich.
- Caramelized onions (1 ½ cups): Sweet, soft onions elevate the patty melt from good to spectacular, adding richness and contrast.
How to Make Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Butter-Mayonnaise Spread
Start by combining the softened salted butter with mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. This mixture is your secret weapon for creating a perfectly toasted, golden crust on the sourdough slices, adding both flavor and moisture.
Step 2: Mix and Season the Beef
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef with onion powder, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly. Then divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a thin patty, perfect for fitting onto your sandwich bread. Don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt on top for added seasoning.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat, and cook the patties in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook on each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, until no longer pink inside and you’ve achieved a nice sear on the outside. This quick cook time helps keep the patties juicy and tender.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread the butter-mayonnaise mixture generously on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. On half of the bread slices, layer a slice of Swiss cheese, then a beef patty, followed by a hearty scoop of caramelized onions. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese and place the remaining bread slice, buttered side out, on top to complete the sandwich.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Wipe out the skillet and return it to a medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, turning carefully, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted luxuriously.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once the sandwiches are perfectly grilled, remove them from the skillet, slice each in half, and serve while warm. The melty cheese, tender beef, and sweet caramelized onions inside will make for an irresistible bite every time.
How to Serve Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh pickles or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a bit of tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the patty melt beautifully. Consider adding a smear of spicy mustard or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce on the side for an extra kick.
Side Dishes
This hearty sandwich pairs wonderfully with crispy French fries or golden onion rings to keep the classic diner vibe alive. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some tangy coleslaw can create a refreshing contrast and balance out the sandwich’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the patty melt sliders at a casual gathering. Cutting the sandwich into smaller portions makes it perfect for sharing. You can also swap out the sourdough for rye bread for a different flavor dimension or add a slice of tomato or crispy bacon for extra layers of texture and taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days. Just be sure to refrigerate your sandwich soon after serving to maintain freshness.
Freezing
The Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe isn’t ideal for freezing once assembled because the bread may become soggy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked patties separately in an airtight container for up to three months and reheat them fresh when ready to eat.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, reheat the sandwich in a skillet over low heat, covering it briefly to melt the cheese again. This method preserves the toasted bread’s crispness much better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss?
Absolutely! While Swiss cheese is traditional for its mild, nutty flavor and excellent melting quality, you can swap it for cheddar, Gruyere, or even American cheese to suit your taste preferences.
How do you make caramelized onions from scratch?
Caramelized onions are made by slowly cooking sliced onions in a bit of oil or butter over low heat until they turn a deep golden brown and become sweet and tender, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes. Patience is key for that perfect caramelization.
Can I make the patties thicker or thinner?
You can adjust the patty thickness based on your preference, but keep in mind that thinner patties grill faster and fit better on the sandwich, while thicker patties will take longer to cook through and might overwhelm the bread.
Is sourdough the best bread for a patty melt?
Sourdough is preferred for its sturdy texture, slight tang, and ability to toast up crisply without becoming soggy. However, rye bread is a popular alternative that brings a unique flavor if you’re interested in mixing things up.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter and cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Use a plant-based spread for the toasted bread and vegan cheese in place of Swiss for a delicious dairy-free Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort, flavor, and a little bit of nostalgia all at once. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a time-honored favorite and why it deserves a spot on your must-make list. So grab your skillet and get ready to whip up one unforgettable sandwich experience!
Print
Classic Patty Melt with Caramelized Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Patty Melt recipe features juicy seasoned beef patties nestled between slices of buttered sourdough bread, Swiss cheese, and sweet caramelized onions. Pan-cooked to golden perfection, this classic American sandwich delivers a savory, melty delight perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Butter-Mayo Spread
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, softened
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
Beef Patties
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Sandwich Assembly
- 8 slices sourdough bread
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 ½ cups caramelized onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter-Mayo Spread: Combine the softened butter and mayonnaise in a small bowl until smooth. This mixture will be spread on the bread to create a crispy, flavorful crust when cooked.
- Make the Beef Patties: In a medium bowl, mix together ground beef, onion powder, garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into thin patties. Sprinkle the remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt evenly over the patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until there is no pink remaining and the patties are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread the butter-mayo mixture on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. On half of the bread slices, layer one slice of Swiss cheese, one beef patty, and a generous amount of caramelized onions. Top with another slice of Swiss cheese and then cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
- Cook the Patty Melts: Wipe out the skillet to remove any residue and return it to medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted completely.
- Serve: Cut each patty melt sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly caramelized onions made by slowly cooking onions over low heat until golden and sweet.
- Ensure patties are thin for even cooking and proper melting with cheese.
- You can substitute Swiss cheese with cheddar or American cheese if preferred.
- Serve with pickles or a side of potato chips for a classic diner experience.
- Butter and mayonnaise spread helps achieve the perfect golden crust on the bread.
