Savor the Ultimate Patty Melt with a Flavorful Secret Sauce

There’s something soul-satisfying about a good patty melt—crispy bread, juicy beef, melted cheese, and that pop of sweetness from caramelized onions, all coming together in one bite. This recipe brings the classic patty melt to a new level with a creamy, tangy secret sauce that balances every mouthful of flavor and texture. It’s one of those sandwiches you crave, especially when you want comfort food that’s a bit elevated. I found this gem in the Recipe Smooth Facebook Group, and it has quickly become a household favorite. Try it out, and see why this patty melt is so special!

Photo byRecipe Smooth

Patty melts trace back to the American diner scene of the 1940s, where combining beef patties with cheese and bread was a culinary solution to bring more versatility to the burger. Traditionally served on rye, this recipe gives you the choice of rye or sourdough, depending on your preference. And, of course, the secret sauce ties it all together with a bit of nostalgia and a lot of flavor.

Ingredients:

For the Patty Melts:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 4 slices rye or sourdough bread
• 4 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Secret Sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Prepare the Secret Sauce
   In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Caramelize the Onions
   In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they soften and caramelize—about 10 minutes. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside. The key is slow cooking here; you want those onions golden and sweet.
3. Cook the Patties
   Divide the ground beef into two equal portions, shaping each into a patty that’s just a bit smaller than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Using the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred doneness. Remove the patties and set them aside.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts
   Take each slice of bread and spread a thin layer of secret sauce on one side. Layer one slice of cheese on the bottom slice, followed by the cooked patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, sauce side down.
5. Grill the Sandwiches
   Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet over medium heat. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes, pressing down gently with a spatula to get that beautiful golden brown crust and melty cheese.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Slice the sandwiches in half, and serve them hot with extra secret sauce on the side for dipping. Each bite should deliver a perfect balance of cheesy, beefy, and tangy flavors that make this patty melt unforgettable.

Cooking Tips:

• For Even Caramelization: Stir the onions occasionally to avoid burning, keeping an eye on the heat.
• Extra Sauce: This sauce is perfect as a dip for fries or veggie sticks, so make a bit more if you want additional sauce on the side.
• Customize the Cheese: While Swiss or cheddar are classic choices, you can experiment with gouda or provolone for a unique twist.

This patty melt recipe is not only a throwback to diner comfort but a modern twist on an all-time classic. Try it out, and don’t forget to let me know if you loved it. Follow me for more tasty recipes, and a special thanks to the Recipe Smooth Facebook Group for inspiring this amazing dish!