The classic patty melt, a sandwich that has stood the test of time. This recipe is a perfect blend of a juicy ground beef patty, slathered with mustard, enveloped in Swiss cheese, and sandwiched between beautifully toasted bread. The standout feature is the deeply caramelized onions, which elevates the sandwich to another level of flavor.
Photos of Classic Patty Melt Recipe
The majority of these ingredients are standard pantry items. The exception might be Apple Cider Vinegar, which is used to deglaze the pan and add a subtle tanginess to the caramelized onions. It's a common ingredient, but if it's not in your pantry, it can easily be found in the vinegar or condiment aisle of any supermarket.
Ingredients for the Classic Patty Melt
Sweet yellow onion: This type of onion has a nice balance of astringency and sweet in their flavor, becoming sweeter the longer they cook.
Butter: Adds richness and aids in the browning process of both the onions and the sandwich.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy note to balance the sweetness of the onions.
Ground beef: The base for our patty. Choose a higher fat content for a juicier result.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth of flavor.
Sandwich bread: The vessel for our ingredients. Choose a sturdy variety that can hold up to the fillings.
Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a nice, mild flavor.
Mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy contrast to the rich ingredients.
One reader, Cull Nunez says:
This classic patty melt recipe is a game-changer! The caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese take it to the next level. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the patty is juicy and delicious. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a good, hearty sandwich.
Key Techniques for Making a Classic Patty Melt
How to caramelize onions: Sliced onions are cooked in a skillet with butter over medium to medium-low heat for about 25 minutes until they turn a deep brown color. Near the end of cooking, apple cider vinegar is added and stirred to combine.
How to shape ground beef patties: Ground beef is shaped into two thin 4-ounce patties that are roughly the shape of the bread slices. The patties are then seasoned with salt and pepper.
How to assemble the patty melt: The patty melt is assembled by layering the bread slices with Swiss cheese, cooked patties, caramelized onions, and another slice of Swiss cheese. The sandwiches are then cooked in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
How To Make Classic Patty Melt
Level up your usual burgers with this patty melt that’s filled with caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, and thin beef patty, all served in a crispy toast.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1sweet yellow onion,sliced thin
- 2tbspbutter,divided
- 1tbspapple cider vinegar
- 8ozground beef
- ¼tspsalt
- ¼tspblack pepper
- 4sandwich bread slices
- 4swiss cheese slices
- mustard,optional
Instructions
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In a large cast-iron skillet set over medium to medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sliced onions. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until they are a deep brown color.
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Near the end of cooking or in about 5 minutes, add the apple cider vinegar and stir to combine. Remove from the skillet.
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Shape the ground beef into two thin 4-ounce patties that are roughly the shape of the bread. Season the patties with salt and pepper.
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When the onions are done in the skillet, set the heat to medium-high and add the patties. Cook for 3 minutes per side. Remove patties when done.
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Wipe the skillet clean and add the last tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once the butter melts, add all the bread slices to the skillet, so one side of each slice is coated with butter.
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Remove two of the four pieces of bread and start building the sandwich on the two pieces remaining in the skillet.
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On each slice of bread remaining in the skillet, add a slice of Swiss cheese, a patty, half of the caramelized onions, and top with the second slice of Swiss cheese.
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Top each sandwich with the slice of bread removed from the skillet earlier, buttered side up.
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Over medium-low heat, cook the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
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Slice sandwiches in half and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 787.79kcal
- Fat: 51.88g
- Saturated Fat: 26.34g
- Trans Fat: 1.82g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 17.56g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.49g
- Carbohydrates: 37.67g
- Fiber: 3.66g
- Sugar: 6.90g
- Protein: 41.79g
- Cholesterol: 162.56mg
- Sodium: 736.25mg
- Calcium: 563.54mg
- Potassium: 564.05mg
- Iron: 4.60mg
- Vitamin A: 225.20µg
- Vitamin C: 4.76mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Patty Melt
When caramelizing the onions, patience is key. Resist the urge to stir them too often as this can prevent them from achieving that deep, rich color and flavor. Also, adding a splash of apple cider vinegar towards the end not only deglazes the pan, capturing all those delicious flavors stuck to the bottom, but also adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness of the onions.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Patty Melt
Prep ahead: Chop the onions and shape the beef patties the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a griddle: Cook multiple patties and sandwich bread slices simultaneously on a griddle to expedite the process.
Multi-task: While the onions are caramelizing, shape the beef patties to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Keep ingredients handy: Organize all the ingredients and utensils before starting to cook to avoid last-minute searches and save time.
Opt for pre-sliced cheese: Using pre-sliced cheese can save time on slicing and ensure even melting on the sandwich.
Substitute Ingredients For Classic Patty Melt Recipe
sweet yellow onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to sweet yellow onions, but they still provide a nice sweetness when caramelized.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier alternative to butter for sautéing the onions and cooking the patty.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can provide a similar tangy acidity to the dish.
ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, while still providing a delicious patty for the melt.
swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild and nutty flavor to Swiss cheese, making it a suitable substitute for the patty melt.
sandwich bread - Substitute with rye bread: Rye bread adds a unique flavor and texture to the patty melt, complementing the other ingredients well.
mustard - Substitute with mayonnaise: Mayonnaise can add a creamy and tangy element to the patty melt, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
Plating Ideas for a Delicious Patty Melt
Elevate the patty melt with gourmet ingredients: Instead of using regular sandwich bread, consider using a freshly baked artisanal rye or sourdough bread for a more sophisticated touch. Opt for high-quality Swiss cheese and locally sourced, grass-fed beef for an elevated flavor profile.
Create a visually appealing plating: Carefully stack the patty melt with precision, ensuring that the layers are evenly distributed and the cheese is perfectly melted. Consider using a food ring to mold the caramelized onions into a neat, circular shape for a polished presentation.
Garnish with a touch of finesse: Add a sprinkle of microgreens or fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, on the plate to bring a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the dish. This delicate touch will enhance the overall visual appeal and add a subtle layer of flavor.
Accompany with a side of gourmet condiments: Instead of regular mustard, consider offering a house-made Dijon mustard or a tangy aioli on the side. Present the condiments in small, elegant ramekins or mini jars for a refined and upscale presentation.
Serve on elegant dinnerware: Choose sophisticated, high-quality plates or platters to showcase the patty melt. Consider using slate boards or modern ceramic dishes to present the dish in a contemporary and stylish manner.
Incorporate a creative twist: Consider adding a unique element to the patty melt, such as a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of truffle salt, to surprise and delight the judges with an unexpected flavor combination.
Focus on precision and attention to detail: Pay close attention to the arrangement of the components, ensuring that each element is meticulously placed for a professional and polished presentation.
Highlight the cooking technique: Emphasize the caramelization of the onions and the perfectly cooked beef patties as a testament to your culinary expertise. Showcase the skill and finesse involved in achieving the ideal texture and flavor in each component of the patty melt.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Patty Melt
Cast-iron skillet: A heavy-duty skillet that provides even heat distribution and is perfect for searing and cooking the patty melt.
Spatula: Used for flipping the patties and assembling the patty melt.
Knife: Used for slicing the onions and cutting the patty melt for serving.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing the onions and assembling the patty melt.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring the salt, pepper, and other ingredients.
Measuring cups: Used for measuring the apple cider vinegar and other liquid ingredients.
Butter knife: Used for spreading butter on the bread slices.
Stove: Used for cooking the onions and patties.
Cheese grater: Used for grating the cheese if not using pre-sliced cheese.
Plate: Used for serving the finished patty melt.
Storing and Freezing Patty Melts for Later
- To store leftover patty melts, wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to reheat, unwrap the sandwich and place it on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
- For longer storage, patty melts can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
- To reheat frozen patty melts, remove the plastic wrap and place the still-foiled sandwich on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
- Pro tip: For best results, assemble the patty melts with cooled ingredients before freezing. This will help prevent the bread from becoming soggy during the reheating process.
- When reheating, you can also unwrap the sandwich and place it in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
How To Reheat Leftover Patty Melts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover patty melt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the sandwich loosely with foil to prevent the bread from burning. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
For a crispier texture, use a panini press or a grill pan. Preheat the press or pan to medium heat. Place the patty melt inside and close the lid. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
If you're short on time, use a microwave. Place the patty melt on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-45 seconds. Check the sandwich and heat it in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, place a paper towel underneath the sandwich to absorb excess moisture.
For a stovetop option, heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place the patty melt in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your patty melt. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich in the basket and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on the sandwich to ensure it doesn't burn.
Interesting Trivia About the Patty Melt
The classic patty melt is a popular American diner dish that originated in the 1940s. It is said to have been created during the era when diners were looking for ways to use up surplus hamburger meat. The patty melt is a delicious combination of a hamburger patty, caramelized onions, and Swiss cheese, all sandwiched between slices of buttered and toasted bread. This dish is a perfect example of comfort food and has stood the test of time, remaining a beloved choice on many diner menus across the United States.
Is Making Patty Melts at Home Cost-Effective?
This classic patty melt recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground beef, onions, and bread, are affordable and readily available. The dish offers a satisfying and hearty meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe earns it a solid 8/10 rating. The use of simple, inexpensive ingredients to create a delicious and filling meal makes it a great choice for a budget-friendly and enjoyable family dinner.
Is the Classic Patty Melt Healthy or Unhealthy?
The classic patty melt recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest option due to several factors:
- High saturated fat content from the ground beef and butter, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease
- Refined carbohydrates in the white sandwich bread, lacking fiber and essential nutrients
- Considerable amount of sodium from the cheese and seasoned patties, which may contribute to high blood pressure in some individuals
However, with a few tweaks, this comforting sandwich can be made more nutritious without compromising on taste.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for lean ground beef (90% or higher) or even ground turkey to reduce the saturated fat content
- Use whole grain or sprouted bread instead of white bread to increase fiber intake and provide additional nutrients
- Reduce the amount of butter used in cooking the onions and toasting the bread, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil
- Choose a lower-sodium cheese, such as Swiss or mozzarella, and use a smaller amount to decrease the overall sodium content
- Add some leafy greens, like spinach or arugula, to the sandwich for extra vitamins and minerals
- Serve the patty melt with a side salad or vegetable-based soup to balance out the meal and add more nutrients
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more wholesome version of the classic patty melt without sacrificing the satisfying flavors that make it a beloved comfort food.
Editor's Opinion on the Classic Patty Melt
This classic patty melt recipe is a timeless comfort food that hits all the right notes. The caramelized onions add a rich sweetness, complementing the savory beef and melted Swiss cheese. The use of apple cider vinegar in the onions adds a delightful tangy note, elevating the overall flavor profile. The method of toasting the bread in butter gives the sandwich a satisfying crunch, while the mustard provides a subtle kick. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Enhance Your Classic Patty Melt Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Sandwiches to Try If You Love Patty Melts
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for a Patty Melt Meal
Why trust this Classic Patty Melt Recipe:
This recipe offers a classic patty melt experience, featuring perfectly caramelized onions, juicy ground beef, and gooey swiss cheese all sandwiched between buttery, toasted bread. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof cooking process, and the use of a cast-iron skillet adds an authentic touch. The combination of flavors and textures creates a mouthwatering dish that's sure to satisfy any craving for a hearty, comforting meal. Trust in the time-tested appeal of this timeless patty melt recipe for a delicious dining experience.
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