🍔🧀 Classic Patty Melt Sandwich
Ingredients (Makes 2 sandwiches):
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½ lb (8 oz) ground beef (80/20 preferred for juiciness)
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4 slices rye bread (or sourdough, if preferred)
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4 slices cheese (usually Swiss or American — or 2 of each!)
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1 medium onion, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp butter (plus more for the bread)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Optional: a touch of Worcestershire sauce or mustard for extra flavor
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
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In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter.
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Add sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and cook low and slow, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until golden brown and soft.
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Set aside.
2. Form & Cook the Patties:
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Divide ground beef into 2 thin, wide patties (shape them roughly to match your bread size — they’ll shrink a bit).
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Season with salt and pepper.
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In the same skillet, cook patties over medium-high heat for about 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
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Optionally, add a splash of Worcestershire for deeper flavor. Remove and set aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches:
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Butter one side of each slice of bread.
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On the unbuttered side of 2 slices:
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Add a slice of cheese
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Top with a cooked beef patty
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Add caramelized onions
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Top with another slice of cheese
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Finish with the second slice of bread, buttered side out
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4. Grill the Sandwiches:
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Wipe out the skillet and return to medium heat.
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Cook sandwiches for about 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
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Slice in half and serve hot with pickles, fries, or a side of coleslaw.
🔄 Variations:
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Use griddled sourdough or Texas toast for a different base.
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Add bacon, grilled mushrooms, or jalapeños for a twist.
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Swap in veggie burger patties for a meatless version.
Would you like a spicy version, a low-carb/keto variation, or a full diner-style meal plan to go with it?
