A classic diner favorite elevated with a tangy, irresistible secret sauce and perfectly melted cheese. These Patty Melts are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. The combination of savory beef, melty cheese, and that special sauce creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and juiciness)
- 6 slices rye bread (look for a marbled rye for a visually appealing and flavorful result)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste (freshly ground black pepper is a must!)
- 6 slices cheddar cheese (medium or sharp cheddar works well)
- 6 slices provolone cheese (adds a nice creamy, slightly nutty flavor)
- 6 tablespoons butter, softened and unsalted (for toasting the bread)
For the Secret Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (full-fat mayonnaise is recommended for richness)
- 2 tablespoons chopped bacon pieces (cooked crispy and then chopped)
- 3 tablespoons ketchup (a classic ketchup works best)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (granulated sugar balances the acidity)
- 1 teaspoon relish (sweet pickle relish adds a tangy crunch)
Preparation:
Patties:
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground beef, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough patties.
- Step 2: Divide the mixture into 3 equal portions. Shape each portion into a flattened patty, about 1/2 inch thick and slightly larger than the slices of rye bread (they will shrink slightly when cooking).
- Step 3: Use your thumb to make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty. This helps prevent them from puffing up in the middle while cooking.
Secret Sauce:
- Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish.
- Step 2: Stir until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add a pinch more sugar or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Step 3: Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Assembly and Cooking:
- Step 1: Butter one side of each slice of rye bread with softened butter.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Step 3: Place the buttered bread slices butter-side down in the skillet.
- Step 4: On each slice of bread, layer 2 slices of provolone cheese, a cooked beef patty, and 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Step 5: Spread a generous amount of secret sauce on one side of the remaining slices of bread. Top each patty melt with a sauce-covered slice of bread, sauce-side down.
- Step 6: Grill the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches while grilling to ensure even cooking and melting.
COOKING RATING: Medium
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Classic Comfort: It’s a nostalgic, satisfying meal that brings back memories of classic diners.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory beef, tangy sauce, and melty cheese is simply irresistible.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or ingredients.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your liking by using different cheeses, adding toppings, or adjusting the seasoning.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these Patty Melts are always a hit.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm, immediately after grilling.
- Pair with a side of crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings.
- Add a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with dill pickles or pickled onions for a tangy contrast.
- Cut each Patty Melt in half for easier handling and serving.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: Cook the Patty Melts in batches to ensure even browning and melting.
- Use Good Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Feel free to add more or less of the ingredients in the secret sauce to suit your taste. A dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce can add extra depth.
- Keep an Eye on the Heat: If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Use a Lid: Covering the skillet with a lid for the last minute or two of cooking can help the cheese melt faster.
- Crispy Bacon is Key: Make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy for the best flavor and texture in the secret sauce.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per Patty Melt, approximate):
- Calories: 650-750
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 45-55g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg (depending on the salt content of the ingredients)
Conclusion:
These Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, ditch the diner and whip up a batch of these amazing sandwiches in your own kitchen. You won’t be disappointed!
Q&A:
Q1: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Absolutely! While rye bread is traditional for Patty Melts, you can use other types of bread such as sourdough, Texas toast, or even brioche. Just keep in mind that different breads will have different textures and flavors, so choose one that complements the overall flavor profile of the sandwich.
Q2: Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, the secret sauce can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious sauce. Just give it a good stir before using.
Q3: What if I don’t have bacon? Can I still make the secret sauce?
A: While bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the sauce, you can still make a delicious version without it. Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor. You can also substitute with finely chopped ham or prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
Q4: Can I use a leaner ground beef?
A: You can use a leaner ground beef, but keep in mind that the fat content contributes to the flavor and juiciness of the patties. If you use a leaner ground beef, be careful not to overcook the patties, as they can become dry. You might also consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the skillet while cooking to help keep them moist.
Q5: What other toppings can I add to my Patty Melt?
A: The possibilities are endless! Some other toppings that would be delicious on a Patty Melt include caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, sliced tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, or even a fried egg. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect Patty Melt.
