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–+ servings
Merry

Cheesy, Crispy, Juicy Patty Melt

The classic patty melt is the perfect blend of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. With a juicy, well-seasoned beef patty, melted cheese, and crispy, buttery rye bread, this diner favorite is easy to make at home. A tangy sauce ties everything together, making each bite rich, savory, and utterly satisfying.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • 6 slices rye bread
  • 6 tablespoons butter softened
  • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon real bacon bits
  • 1 teaspoon sweet relish
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 6 slices cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices Provolone cheese

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, mix ground beef with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Form into three equal-sized patties.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 2-3 minutes per side, then reduce heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes until fully cooked. Set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, sweet relish, and sugar to create the sauce.
  4. Butter one side of each rye bread slice. Spread the sauce on the unbuttered side of three slices.
  5. Place a slice of cheddar cheese and a slice of Provolone on each sauced bread slice. Add a cooked patty on top, then top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out.
  6. Wipe the skillet clean and heat over medium heat. Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  7. Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use a sturdy bread like rye or sourdough to avoid sogginess.
  • For extra caramelized flavor, cook sliced onions in butter and add them to the sandwich.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days and reheat in a skillet.
  • Swap out ground beef for turkey or a plant-based patty for a lighter option.
  • Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, American, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

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