Beef patties, soft browned onions and melted Swiss cheese fill crisp rye sandwiches with buttery edges.
Slowly browned onions give Patty Melts their sweet, savory center. The beef cooks separately so the bread can toast gently without waiting for raw meat to finish inside.
Shape the patties into thin ovals that fit your bread. Keep the sandwich heat moderate; rye can darken before the cheese melts if the skillet is too hot.
Method
Heat 1 tbsp butter and the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the onions with half the salt for , stirring, until soft and golden brown. Transfer to a bowl.
Shape the ground beef into four thin oval patties and season with the remaining salt and black pepper. Cook in the skillet over medium-high heat for per side until browned and 160°F in the center; transfer to a plate.
Spread the remaining butter on one side of each rye bread slice. Layer Swiss cheese, a patty and onions between two slices, buttered sides facing out.
Wipe out the skillet and toast the sandwiches over medium-low heat for per side until the bread is crisp and the cheese melts, working in two skillets or batches.
Forkue tips
- Use two skillets for the final toast if all four sandwiches will not fit without touching.
Storing and reheating
Store patties and onions in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and toast the sandwiches just before eating; assembled leftovers lose their crisp rye crust.
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Kitchen gear
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Photo: Missvain, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons (cropped and enhanced)
Patty Melts: FAQ
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Provolone melts well and gives a milder sandwich, while a sharp cheddar adds more bite to the sweet onions.
How do I keep the filling from sliding out?
Make the patties slightly smaller than the bread and place cheese against both bread slices so it melts around the meat and onions.
How do I store and reheat Patty Melts?
Store patties and onions in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and toast the sandwiches just before eating; assembled leftovers lose their crisp rye crust.
How long does Patty Melts take?
About 55 min in total: 15 min prep and 40 min cooking.
What do I need to make Patty Melts?
The key ingredients are ground beef, onions, rye bread, swiss cheese and butter, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Patty Melts?
Use two skillets for the final toast if all four sandwiches will not fit without touching.
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