Ultimate Patty Melt with Secret Sauce
Introduction
The patty melt is an all-American classic that beautifully bridges the gap between a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. This ultimate patty melt recipe elevates the dish with perfectly caramelized onions, melty cheese, buttery rye bread, and a rich, tangy secret sauce. Whether you’re indulging in comfort food or impressing at a dinner gathering, this patty melt guarantees satisfaction.
Ingredients
For the Patty:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
For the Secret Sauce:
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp sweet pickle relish
½ tsp smoked paprika
For the Sandwich:
8 slices of rye bread (or sourdough as an alternative)
8 slices of Swiss cheese (or cheddar for a sharper taste)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
4 tbsp unsalted butter (for bread and onions)
Instructions
Preparing the Patty:
- Mix the Beef: Combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Form into 4 thin patties, slightly larger than the bread slices (they’ll shrink when cooked).
Making the Secret Sauce:
- Whisk Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pickle relish, and smoked paprika until smooth. Refrigerate until needed.
Caramelizing the Onions:
- Cook the Onions: Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden and caramelized. Remove and set aside.
Assembling the Sandwich:
- Cook the Patties: In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Butter the Bread: Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the Melt: On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, spread the secret sauce, add a slice of cheese, a cooked patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with another slice of bread (buttered side out).
Cooking the Patty Melt:
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing down gently, until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted.
Methods
Classic Griddle: A cast-iron skillet ensures even heat and a crisp crust.
Oven Finish: If making multiple melts, keep them warm in a low oven (200°F/93°C) to melt the cheese evenly.
History
The patty melt originated in the 1940s and 1950s in diners across the United States. It is believed to have been popularized by Tiny Naylor, a restaurant entrepreneur in Southern California. Combining hamburger patties with cheese and toasted bread, it became a comfort-food icon.
Benefits
- Protein-Packed: The beef patty and cheese provide a rich source of protein.
- Versatile: Easy to customize with different breads, cheeses, or sauces.
- Comfort Food: Combines classic elements to create a nostalgic and satisfying meal.
Nutrition (Per Sandwich Approx.):
Calories: 750
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 46g
Fiber: 4g
Formation of the Dish
The patty melt is a masterclass in flavor layering. The crispy, buttery bread contrasts perfectly with the gooey cheese, juicy beef patty, and tangy secret sauce. Caramelized onions add sweetness, tying the flavors together into a cohesive and indulgent bite.
Conclusion
The ultimate patty melt with secret sauce is more than a meal—it’s an experience. Combining timeless techniques with rich flavors, this dish delivers satisfaction in every bite. Whether served at a casual lunch or a dinner party, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Lovers of the Dish
This dish is adored by food enthusiasts who crave a balance of simplicity and indulgence. It’s a favorite among burger lovers, sandwich aficionados, and anyone who cherishes the nostalgia of classic diner food.
Enjoy the ultimate patty melt with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete, unforgettable meal!