Classic Patty Melt Recipe
This classic patty melt is a timeless comfort food favorite made with juicy ground beef patties, caramelized onions, melted cheese, and golden toasted bread. Crispy on the outside and irresistibly cheesy inside, this easy diner-style patty melt is perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you’re craving a hearty homemade sandwich.
Why you will love this recipe
Rich, savory flavor with juicy beef and melted cheese
Crispy toasted bread with a soft, cheesy center
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Classic diner-style comfort food at home
Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon butter (for onions)
8 slices sandwich bread (rye, sourdough, or white)
8 slices cheese (Swiss, American, or cheddar)
Butter, softened, for grilling
Directions
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and 1 tablespoon butter. Cook slowly, stirring often, until onions are soft, golden, and caramelized. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape into thin oval patties to fit the bread slices. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Using the same skillet over medium heat, cook the beef patties for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, until fully cooked and browned. Remove and set aside.
Assemble the patty melts by placing a slice of cheese on one slice of bread, followed by a beef patty, a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with a second slice of bread.
Butter the outside of each sandwich. Place the sandwiches in a skillet over medium-low heat and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip and cook the other side until the cheese is fully melted and the sandwich is heated through.
Remove from the pan, slice in half, and serve hot. These patty melts are delicious on their own or served with fries, salad, or a dipping sauce.
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Patty Melt Variations
Here are easy and delicious variations of the classic patty melt. All are simple to make and perfect for changing flavors without changing the method.
Mushroom Patty Melt
Add sautéed mushrooms to the caramelized onions for an earthy, rich flavor. Swiss or provolone cheese works especially well with mushrooms.
Cheddar Patty Melt
Swap Swiss or American cheese for sharp cheddar. This adds a bolder, more pronounced cheese flavor that pairs well with beef.
Sourdough Patty Melt
Use sourdough bread instead of rye or white bread for a slightly tangy flavor and extra crisp texture when grilled.
Onion Ring Patty Melt
Replace caramelized onions with crispy onion rings for added crunch and a fun diner-style twist.
Spicy Patty Melt
Add sliced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a dash of hot sauce to the beef for a spicy kick.
Garlic Butter Patty Melt
Mix minced garlic into softened butter before grilling the bread for extra flavor and a rich, savory finish.
Low-Carb Patty Melt
Skip the bread and serve the beef patty topped with melted cheese and caramelized onions, or use low-carb bread alternatives.
Saucy Patty Melt
Serve with a side of burger sauce, barbecue sauce, or thousand island dressing for dipping.
