Irresistible Patty Melts with Secret Sauce for Ultimate Comfort

These Ultimate Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are the perfect comfort food, featuring juicy beef, gooey cheese, and caramelized onions.

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 30

Total Time 1

Servings: 4 sandwiches

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Patties

1 pound Ground Beef (80/20) Provides juiciness and flavor; using leaner beef can result in drier patties.
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Enhances the flavor profile of the patties; adjust according to your taste preference.
1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds a subtle onion flavor that complements the fresh onions.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Adds a hint of smokiness to both the patties and the secret sauce.

For the Caramelized Onions

2 medium Yellow Onions Essential for creating sweetness and depth; be patient for the caramelization process.
2 tablespoons Butter Vital for cooking onions to golden perfection, and can be replaced with olive oil for a healthier option.

For the Sandwich Assembly

4 slices Swiss Cheese Classic choice for melty texture; alternatives include cheddar or American for a sharper flavor.
4 slices Rye or Sourdough Bread Traditional and sturdy, perfect for holding the fillings; Texas toast offers extra thickness.
2 tablespoons Butter Necessary for achieving a crispy, golden crust; use unsalted for better seasoning control.

For the Secret Sauce

½ cup Mayonnaise Forms the creamy base of the sauce; Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute.
2 tablespoons Ketchup Adds sweetness; choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Provides a tangy kick that balances the richness of the sauce.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds depth and umami; a few drops can elevate the sauce’s flavor.
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Infuses the sauce with a delicious smokiness.

Equipment

skillet
mixing bowl
spatula

Method

Step-by-Step Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for 25–30 minutes until deeply golden.
Prepare the Secret Sauce: Whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Form the Patties: Combine 1 pound of ground beef with 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Shape into thin patties slightly larger than bread slices.
Cook the Patties: Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil, cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until brown, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer cheese, a patty, caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
Grill the Sandwiches: Grill each sandwich in the same skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown, pressing gently with a spatula.
Serve: Slice sandwiches in half and serve hot with extra secret sauce on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sandwichCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 1000mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, allow the secret sauce to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors together.

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