Save to Pinterest A classic American diner favorite featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, all sandwiched between buttery rye bread and griddled to perfection in a cast-iron skillet.
This recipe reminds me of cozy dinners at old-school diners, where every bite feels nostalgic and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended), 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp olive oil, Pinch of salt
- Bread & Cheese: 8 slices rye bread, 8 slices Swiss cheese
- Assembly: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for spreading on bread)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat melt 2 tbsp butter with olive oil Add onions and a pinch of salt Cook stirring occasionally until onions are deeply caramelized about 20 minutes Set aside
- Step 2:
- While onions cook season ground beef with salt pepper and Worcestershire sauce Form into 4 oval-shaped patties slightly larger than the bread slices
- Step 3:
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat Cook patties for 3–>4 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through Transfer to a plate
- Step 4:
- Wipe the skillet clean Butter one side of each bread slice
- Step 5:
- Assemble each melt Place one slice of bread buttered side down in the skillet Top with a slice of cheese a beef patty a generous spoonful of caramelized onions another slice of cheese and a second slice of bread (buttered side up)
- Step 6:
- Cook over medium heat until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted about 3–>4 minutes per side Press gently with a spatula for even browning
- Step 7:
- Slice in half and serve hot
Save to Pinterest My family enjoys gathering around for these patty melts especially on chilly weekend evenings—it’s a meal that brings everyone together.
Notes
Try substituting Swiss cheese with cheddar provolone or American cheese for a twist Add sautéed mushrooms or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor Excellent paired with crisp pickles or classic diner fries
Required Tools
Cast-iron skillet Large nonstick skillet (for onions optional) Spatula Chefs knife Cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (cheese butter) Soy (Worcestershire sauce may contain soy) Contains Beef Double-check all labels for hidden allergens if sensitive
Save to Pinterest Serve your patty melts hot off the skillet for the ultimate diner experience every time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of beef is best for patties?
Use an 80/20 blend ground beef for juicy, flavorful patties that hold together well while cooking.
- → How do you caramelize onions correctly?
Cook thinly sliced onions slowly over medium-low heat in butter and oil, stirring occasionally until they turn deep golden and sweet, about 20 minutes.
- → Can I substitute Swiss cheese with other types?
Yes, cheddar, provolone, or American cheese make great alternatives, each adding a unique flavor profile to the melt.
- → What bread works best for these melts?
Buttery rye bread provides a sturdy, flavorful base that crisps nicely in the skillet, complementing the savory fillings.
- → How to achieve even browning on the melts?
Cook over medium heat and press gently with a spatula to ensure the bread crisps evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.