Classic Patty Melt Recipe

The next time you’re stuck on what to make for dinner, try this classic patty melt recipe. It’s tasty, easy to make, and sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re craving a burger or a sandwich, this dish combines the best of both worlds with juicy beef, gooey cheese, and crispy bread.

What Is a Patty Melt?

A patty melt is an American classic that dates back to the 1940s. It features ground beef and melted cheese layered between toasted bread. Typically prepared on Texas toast or rye bread, it’s cooked on a griddle and often served with fries or pickles. While some patty melts include caramelized onions, this recipe simplifies the process with onion powder, delivering bold flavor without the mess or extra cooking time.

Ingredients for the Perfect Patty Melt

You’ll need just a handful of simple, common ingredients to make this mouthwatering patty melt:

• 6 slices rye bread (or your preferred bread)
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 pound ground beef
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon real bacon bits
• 1 teaspoon sweet relish
• 1 teaspoon white sugar
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 6 slices Provolone cheese

Best Bread for Patty Melt

The best bread for patty melts is thick and sturdy enough to hold all the fillings. Rye bread is a traditional favorite, but options like Texas toast, pumpernickel, or multigrain bread work beautifully too. Avoid bread with large holes (like some sourdough) to prevent the cheese and sauce from melting out.

How to Make a Classic Patty Melt

S1: Prepare the Bread

• Butter one side of each slice of bread generously. This will ensure a crispy, golden exterior when grilled.

2: Make the Patties

1. Combine the ground beef, pepper, salt, and onion powder in a bowl.
2. Shape the mixture into three patties, matching the shape of your bread.

3: Cook the Patties

1. Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4: Make the Sauce

• Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, relish, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside.

5: Assemble and Grill

1. Heat another skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet. Top it with two slices of cheddar cheese, a cooked patty, and two slices of Provolone cheese.
3. Spread the sauce on the unbuttered side of another slice of bread and place it on top (sauce-side down).
4. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bread is toasted and the cheese melts.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients to make three patty melts.

Tips for the Best Patty Melt

• Choose the Right Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest patties.
• Stick to Thick Bread: Thin slices may fall apart under the weight of the fillings.
• Try Different Cheeses: Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while Gouda brings a smoky flavor.
• Use Cast Iron: For the best flavor and even toasting, cook your patty melts in a cast-iron skillet.
• Make It Your Own: Add caramelized onions, swap the sauce for Thousand Island dressing, or layer on crispy bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your patty melts with classic sides for a complete meal:

• French fries or onion rings
• Dill pickle spears
• Coleslaw
• A crisp green salad

For a creative twist, serve with Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes or Festive Christmas Meatballs.

FAQs About Patty Melts

What type of ground beef works best for patty melts?
80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for juicy, flavorful patties.

Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! Texas toast, whole wheat, or pumpernickel are all great choices.

Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
Yes. Bake at 375°F until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

What’s a quick sauce alternative?
Use pre-made Thousand Island dressing for convenience.

Can I make this recipe lighter?
Swap beef for ground turkey, butter for low-fat spread, and full-fat cheese for reduced-fat options.

Related Recipes

• Chicken and Biscuits Recipe
• Festive Christmas Meatballs
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes Recipe

Call to Action

Save this classic patty melt recipe to your Pinterest boards and share it with friends for your next weeknight dinner idea. Try it tonight and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!

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