Save to Pinterest A classic American comfort dish featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melted cheese sandwiched between crispy rye bread, all cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet.
A classic American comfort dish featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melted cheese sandwiched between crispy rye bread, all cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet.
Ingredients
- Beef Patties: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Sandwich Assembly: 8 slices rye bread, 8 slices Swiss cheese, 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
Instructions
- Make the Onions:
- In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 15 18 minutes. Transfer onions to a bowl and wipe skillet clean.
- Prepare the Patties:
- In a medium bowl, gently combine ground beef, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Form into 4 oval-shaped patties, roughly the size and shape of your bread slices.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook for 3 4 minutes per side, until nicely browned and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side of 4 slices, layer 1 slice Swiss cheese, a beef patty, a generous portion of caramelized onions, another slice of Swiss cheese, then top with remaining bread, buttered side out.
- Grill the Patty Melts:
- Place assembled sandwiches in the skillet over medium heat (work in batches if needed). Cook 3 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Let rest briefly, then slice in half and serve hot.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings back memories of cozy dinners shared with family on chilly nights.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a smear of Dijon mustard or Thousand Island dressing before assembling. Substitute rye bread with sourdough or whole wheat if preferred. Add sautéed mushrooms for a twist. Pairs well with classic dill pickles or a side of crispy fries.
Required Tools
Cast-iron skillet, spatula, mixing bowl, knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories: 680, Total Fat: 39 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 38 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these indulgent patties melts fresh from the skillet for the best flavor and texture.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of beef is best for this dish?
An 80/20 blend of ground beef provides the right balance of flavor and juiciness for patties.
- → How do you achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
Cook thinly sliced onions slowly in butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally until deep golden-brown, about 15–18 minutes.
- → Can I substitute the rye bread?
Sourdough or whole wheat bread are great alternatives that complement the flavors well.
- → What is the best way to cook the patties evenly?
Cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side until nicely browned and just cooked through.
- → How do I ensure the sandwich gets crispy and cheese melts properly?
Grill the assembled sandwich in buttered cast-iron skillet over medium heat, pressing gently and flipping until golden brown and cheese melts.