Save A classic American comfort dish featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese, all layered over golden rye bread and cooked in a cast iron skillet for an irresistible crispy finish.
This dish brings back memories of diner dinners with family where every bite was pure comfort.
Ingredients
- For the Patties: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- For the Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1/4 tsp salt
- For Assembly: 8 slices rye bread, 8 slices Swiss cheese, 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for bread), Optional 2 tbsp mayonnaise
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 equal patties, slightly larger than the bread slices.
- Step 2:
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp butter, then onions and 1/4 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized, about 12 15 minutes. Remove onions and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Increase heat to medium high. Add beef patties to the skillet and cook for 3 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 4:
- Wipe skillet clean. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place 4 slices, buttered side down, in the skillet. Top each with a slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of Swiss cheese, and finish with a second bread slice, buttered side up.
- Step 5:
- Cook over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese melts, about 3 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula for an even crust.
- Step 6:
- Slice each patty melt in half and serve hot.
Save We enjoy making this recipe together every Sunday evening; it’s a true family tradition.
Variations
Try swapping Swiss cheese for cheddar or American cheese to change up the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with pickles or crispy French fries for an authentic diner experience.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Save This patty melt skillet recipe combines comfort and ease for a delicious meal you can enjoy any night of the week.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of beef is best for this dish?
An 80/20 ground beef blend is ideal to ensure the patties stay juicy yet hold together well during cooking.
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
Cook sliced onions slowly in butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and sweet, about 12-15 minutes.
- → Can I substitute the cheese used here?
Yes, cheddar or American cheese can be used as alternatives to Swiss for a different twist on flavor and texture.
- → Why use a cast iron skillet for cooking?
Cast iron distributes heat evenly and helps create a crispy crust on the bread while melting cheese thoroughly.
- → Any tips for assembling to avoid sogginess?
Butter the bread slices before cooking and press gently with a spatula to create an even, crisp crust that keeps layers intact.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
The patties and caramelized onions can be made in advance and stored separately, then assembled and cooked just before serving.