These patty melts are a fun twist on a classic! Juicy burgers are tucked between cheesy toast and topped with sweet caramelized onions. Yum!
I love how the onions add a little sweetness that makes every bite special. Serve them with fries, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to please everyone! 🍔🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for patties since it provides flavor and juiciness. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken. Remember, leaner meats can result in drier patties, so consider adding a bit of moisture.
Onion: A large yellow onion works best for caramelizing due to its sweetness. You can substitute it with sweet onions or red onions for a different flavor, but I find yellow onions create the best taste balance in this recipe.
Rye Bread: Rye adds a unique flavor, but any sturdy bread works well. I often use sourdough for a tangy twist, or whole wheat for a healthier option. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold the fillings without tearing.
Cheese: Cheddar is the classic choice for patty melts, but feel free to mix it up! Swiss or pepper jack can add a nice touch. If you’re dairy-free, there are good cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy.
Worcestershire Sauce: This is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce can be a good stand-in, or simply omit it for a more straightforward beef flavor.
Why is Caramelizing Onions So Important for Flavor?
Caramelizing onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds a rich flavor that’s key to patty melts. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium heat before adding the onions.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt to help release their moisture.
- Stir occasionally, letting them cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- If using Worcestershire sauce, add it in the last few minutes for an extra layer of flavor.
Patience is key here; rushing the process won’t give the same sweet results. Enjoy the smell as they caramelize – it’s part of the experience!
Best Patty Melts With Caramelized Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of rye bread (or your preferred bread)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting bread)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes caramelizing the onions and about 15 minutes cooking the beef patties and toasting the sandwiches. It’s a delicious meal that you’ll love making!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Stir them occasionally for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to become soft and golden brown. If you’d like, add Worcestershire sauce in the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of flavor. Once they’re beautifully caramelized, take them off the heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
While the onions are caramelizing, grab your ground beef. Sprinkle some salt and pepper over it, then divide the beef into two equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Using the same skillet you used for the onions, turn the heat up to medium-high. Place the patties in the skillet and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked to your liking. In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty to let it melt beautifully.
4. Assemble the Patty Melts:
Take two slices of your bread and start building your patty melts! First, layer the caramelized onions, then place a hot patty with melted cheese on top, and finish with another slice of bread. Simple and delicious!
5. Toast the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to make them crispy! In a clean skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Carefully add the assembled sandwiches to the skillet. Grill them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Feel free to add more butter if you want extra flavor!
6. Serve:
Once your sandwiches are nicely toasted, take them out of the skillet and cut them in half. Serve them hot with your favorite sides or dipping sauces. Enjoy those tasty patty melts with caramelized onions!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and will work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that turkey can dry out more easily than beef, so avoid overcooking the patties. If you prefer additional moisture, consider adding a spoonful of mayo or diced onions directly into the turkey mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Patty Melts?
To store leftovers, wrap the patty melts tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheating in a skillet is best to maintain the crispiness of the bread!
What Bread Can I Use for Patty Melts?
You can use any type of bread you enjoy! Rye is classic, but sourdough, whole wheat, or even white bread will work great. Just choose a sturdy bread that can hold the fillings without falling apart.
Can I Make The Onions in Advance?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made ahead of time! You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat them in a skillet before assembling your patty melts to bring back their delicious flavor.
