These patty melts are a real treat! Juicy beef patties are topped with sweet caramelized onions and melted cheese, all sandwiched between crispy bread. Yum!
I love how easy they are to make and they always hit the spot. Pair them with some fries or a salad, and you’ve got a happy meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, go for 90/10. You could also try ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or veggie version.
Onion: A large onion is great for caramelizing. For a sweeter taste, consider using Vidalia or sweet onions. If you’re in a hurry, shallots can work too, though they caramelize quicker.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives a delicious, melty flavor, but feel free to swap it for American cheese if you like that classic gooeyness. Provolone or Swiss could be tasty alternatives too!
Bread: Rye or sourdough are both excellent choices since they have great texture and taste. If you prefer white bread, that’s fine too! Just choose a sturdy bread that can hold all the fillings.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds extra depth to the flavor of your patty. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with soy sauce or omit it altogether.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes practice, but it’s crucial for enhancing the flavor of your patty melts. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-low heat to slowly cook the onions. This prevents them from burning.
- Add a pinch of salt to encourage moisture release, making them cook down better.
- Stir gently every few minutes to keep them from sticking, allowing them to develop that beautiful golden-brown color.
- Feel free to add Worcestershire sauce in the last few minutes to amplify the taste.
Patience is key here. It may take 20-25 minutes, but the sweet, rich flavor is worth it!
Best Patty Melts with Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese (or American cheese, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Additional butter or mayonnaise for grilling the bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes to make. You’ll need around 25 minutes for caramelizing the onions and about 15 minutes for cooking the patties and grilling the sandwiches. Enjoy the process—it’s simple and the flavors are worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir the onions occasionally, allowing them to cook slowly until they turn soft and brown, which should take about 20-25 minutes. If you’d like, stir in the Worcestershire sauce in the last few minutes for a boost of flavor.
2. Prepare the Patties:
While your onions are caramelizing, take the ground beef and shape it into two equal patties. Make sure to season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper. This little step will add great flavor to your burgers!
3. Cook the Patties:
Now, cook the patties in a separate skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to reach your preferred doneness—don’t forget to place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking so it can melt beautifully!
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
On a slice of your chosen bread, start by layering one cheeseburger patty. Next, add a generous portion of the caramelized onions followed by another slice of cheese. Finally, place a second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
5. Grill the Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread a little butter or mayonnaise on the outside of each sandwich for that delicious golden crust. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and grill them until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side, gently pressing down with a spatula to help them stay together.
6. Serve:
Once your patty melts are beautifully grilled, remove them from the skillet. If you like, slice them in half for easier eating. Serve them warm, and they pair perfectly with pickles or chips on the side. Enjoy your delicious Patty Melts with caramelized onions!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are the most common choice for caramelization, you can also use sweet onions like Vidalia for a lighter flavor or red onions for a hint of sweetness. Just remember that the caramelization process will still take about the same time for any variety.
How Should I Store Leftover Patty Melts?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispy texture of the bread. You can also pop them in the microwave, but be cautious as the bread may become soft.
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef patties ahead of time! Shape and season them, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a sealed bag. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for longer storage. Make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking if they’re frozen!
What Kind of Cheese Can I Substitute?
If you don’t have cheddar or American cheese on hand, you can easily swap in other melty cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or even pepper jack for some heat. Just choose your favorite cheese that melts well to enhance the flavor of your patty melt!
