Patty Melt with Secret Sauce

A Patty Melt is the perfect marriage between a burger and a grilled cheese, loaded with juicy beef, caramelized onions, melty cheese, and crisp rye bread. What takes this version over the top? The creamy, tangy, slightly sweet secret sauce that ties everything together. This comforting classic is perfect for lunch, dinner—or anytime you need a flavor-packed bite.

Ingredients

For the Patty Melts:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced

• 1 tbsp butter (for onions)

• 8 slices rye bread (or sourdough if preferred)

• 8 slices Swiss or American cheese (or combo)

• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)

Secret Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• Dash of hot sauce (optional)

• Instructions

  1. Make the Secret Sauce:

  In a small bowl, combine mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

  2. Caramelize the Onions:

  Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and soft. Set aside.

  3. Form and Cook the Patties:

  Divide the ground beef into 4 thin oval-shaped patties (roughly bread-sized). Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through. Set aside.

  4. Assemble the Patty Melts:

  • Spread secret sauce on one side of each slice of bread.

  • On 4 slices, layer cheese, cooked patty, caramelized onions, more cheese, then top with the second slice of bread (sauce side in).

  5. Grill the Melts:

  Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt butter and grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing slightly, until the bread is golden and crisp and the cheese is melted.

• Serve With:

  • Crispy fries or tater tots

  • A side of pickles

  • Classic coleslaw or a simple green salad

  • Let me know if you’d like a spicy twist or a version with mushrooms or bacon!