Patty Melt with Secret Sauce

The Patty Melt with Secret Sauce is a deliciously hearty sandwich that combines the best of a classic burger with the comfort of grilled cheese. With juicy beef patties, melty cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a creamy secret sauce, all nestled between toasted marble rye bread, this sandwich is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, it’s sure to satisfy any craving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Patty Melt takes the traditional sandwich to the next level with its mouthwatering combination of savory beef, gooey cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, all complemented by a zesty secret sauce. The toasted marble rye adds a flavorful, slightly tangy crunch to every bite. It’s a filling and indulgent sandwich that’s perfect for satisfying your comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

For the Beef Patties:

680 grams lean ground beef
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sandwich Assembly:

12 slices marble rye bread
3 slices cheddar cheese
3 slices Swiss cheese
8 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 Vidalia onions, thinly sliced
½ cup secret sauce

For the Secret Sauce:

60 milliliters mayonnaise
60 milliliters Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon barbecue sauce
½ teaspoon hot sauce

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Secret Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce until smooth. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Patties:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Divide the beef mixture evenly and form into 6 oval-shaped patties of similar thickness.

3. Caramelize the Onions:

Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Set aside.

4. Cook the Beef Patties:

Heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the beef patties for 2 minutes per side, until browned but still juicy. Remove the patties and wipe the skillet clean.

5. Assemble the Sandwiches:

Spread a thin layer of butter on the outer sides of each slice of bread.
Place the buttered bread slices, buttered side down, on the skillet.
On each slice, spread 1 tablespoon of secret sauce, top with 3 tablespoons of caramelized onions, a slice of cheese, a beef patty, a second slice of cheese, more onions, and secret sauce.
Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.

6. Grill the Sandwiches:

Cook the sandwiches on both sides over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.

7. Serve:

Serve the Patty Melts hot, cut in half for an extra delicious experience.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 sandwiches
Kcal: 550 kcal per sandwich

Variations

• Cheese Swap: You can swap the cheddar and Swiss cheeses for your favorites, such as American, provolone, or pepper jack.

• Grilled Veggies: Add grilled mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for more flavor and texture.

• Spicy Version: For a spicier twist, add a few slices of jalapeños or increase the amount of hot sauce in the secret sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Patty Melts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwiches on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet, but be sure to cover with a lid to ensure the cheese melts.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough, whole wheat, or even a plain white sandwich bread.

2. Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to keep the flavor balanced.

3. Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the secret sauce can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

4. Can I cook the patties in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

5. Can I add more cheese to the sandwich?

Yes, feel free to add more cheese, either by layering extra slices or by using a cheese sauce in place of some of the cheese.

6. How do I avoid the bread getting soggy?

Be sure to toast the bread well and use a light hand with the secret sauce to prevent it from soaking into the bread.

7. Can I make this recipe with a grill instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can grill the sandwiches on a panini press or grill for a crispy, toasted exterior.

8. Can I add more veggies to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even avocado for a fresh twist.

9. How can I make the onions caramelize faster?

To speed up the caramelizing process, you can add a pinch of sugar to the onions while they cook, which helps them brown more quickly.

10. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

The patties and caramelized onions can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just assemble and grill the sandwiches when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Patty Melt with Secret Sauce is a deliciously indulgent sandwich that combines savory beef, melty cheese, sweet caramelized onions, and a creamy, zesty secret sauce. Paired with toasted marble rye, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether for a casual meal or a special treat, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy the perfect melt!

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