What happens when you combine the best elements of a grilled cheese sandwich and a juicy hamburger? You get the irresistible Grilled Cheese Patty Melt! This classic diner-style sandwich features a juicy beef patty topped with melted cheese and caramelized onions, sandwiched between slices of buttery, toasted bread. Itโs the perfect marriage of flavors and textures: crispy bread, gooey cheese, and a savory beef patty. Whether youโre craving a comforting lunch or a hearty dinner, this Grilled Cheese Patty Melt is sure to satisfy. Keep reading for the step-by-step recipe and tips for making the best patty melts at home.

What Is a Grilled Cheese Patty Melt?
A Grilled Cheese Patty Melt is a hybrid between a cheeseburger and a grilled cheese sandwich. Itโs made with a flavorful beef patty, melted cheese (usually Swiss or cheddar), caramelized onions, and golden, toasted bread instead of the usual burger bun. The result is a crispy, melty, and savory sandwich thatโs bursting with flavor. Often considered a diner classic, the patty melt is a perfect comfort food thatโs simple to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients List for Grilled Cheese Patty Melts
Hereโs what youโll need to create delicious grilled cheese patty melts:
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil for cooking
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter (or oil)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to enhance sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
For the Sandwiches:
- 8 slices of bread (rye, sourdough, or white bread work well)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened (for spreading on the bread)
- 8 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or American cheese)
Optional Condiments:
- Thousand Island dressing, mustard, or mayo for spreading inside the sandwich
Substitutions and Variations
You can easily adapt the patty melt recipe to your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Meat options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based burger patty for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Cheese alternatives: Swiss and cheddar are traditional choices, but you can also use provolone, American, or even Pepper Jack for a little heat.
- Bread options: Rye bread is classic for patty melts, but sourdough, whole wheat, or even Texas toast can be used for a different texture or flavor.
- Additional toppings: Add sautรฉed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or pickles for extra flavor and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to make the ultimate Grilled Cheese Patty Melts? Follow these easy steps for a foolproof, delicious meal.
How to Cook Grilled Cheese Patty Melts: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Make the Caramelized Onions
- Heat the butter: In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Cook the onions: Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Stir occasionally, allowing the onions to soften and caramelize, about 15-20 minutes. For extra sweetness, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Set aside: Once the onions are golden and soft, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
- Season the ground beef: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- Shape the patties: Divide the beef into 4 equal portions and shape them into thin, square or rectangular patties that will fit the size of your bread slices. The patties will shrink slightly as they cook.
- Cook the patties: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked through to your desired doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Patty Melts
- Butter the bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the sandwich: Place a slice of bread (buttered side down) in a skillet or on a flat surface. Add 1 slice of cheese, followed by a beef patty, some caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with a second slice of bread (buttered side facing up).
- Optional condiments: If you like, spread Thousand Island dressing, mustard, or mayo on the inside of the bread before assembling the sandwich for extra flavor.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwiches
- Grill the patty melts: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted. Use a spatula to press down gently on the sandwiches as they cook for even browning.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the patty melts from the skillet, let them cool for a minute, then slice them in half and serve immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using high heat: Cooking the sandwiches on too high of heat can cause the bread to burn before the cheese has a chance to melt. Stick to medium heat for even cooking and melty cheese.
- Overhandling the beef: When forming the patties, donโt overwork the ground beef, as this can make the patties tough. Gently shape them to maintain a tender texture.
- Skipping the butter: Buttering the outside of the bread is essential for getting that crispy, golden crust. Donโt skip this step!
Serving and Presentation Tips
While Grilled Cheese Patty Melts are simple to make, you can still present them beautifully. Here are some ways to serve and elevate your patty melts:
How to Serve Grilled Cheese Patty Melts
- As a main dish: Serve the patty melts with classic sides like French fries, potato chips, or a simple green salad.
- With dipping sauces: Offer small bowls of ketchup, Thousand Island dressing, or even a spicy aioli for dipping the sandwich slices.
- For a crowd: Make multiple patty melts and cut them into halves or quarters for a party-friendly platter.
Presentation Ideas for Grilled Cheese Patty Melts
- Slice diagonally: Cut the patty melts diagonally to show off the layers of beef, cheese, and onions.
- Serve on a wooden board: Arrange the sandwiches on a wooden board with pickles and fries for a rustic, diner-style presentation.
- Add garnish: Garnish the plates with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or serve with a small side of coleslaw for extra color and freshness.
Grilled Cheese Patty Melt Recipe Tips
- Double cheese it: For an extra-cheesy patty melt, use two types of cheese or add more slices for ultimate gooeyness.
- Go crispy: If you love an extra crispy crust, you can press the sandwiches down with a spatula as they cook, or use a panini press.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the caramelized onions and even shape the patties ahead of time. Simply cook the sandwiches when youโre ready to eat for a quick meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of bread for patty melts?
Yes! Rye bread is traditional, but you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or even a brioche bun for a richer flavor. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the filling without getting soggy.
Can I make these patty melts ahead of time?
Patty melts are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, but you can make the caramelized onions and shape the patties in advance. When you're ready to eat, cook the patties, assemble the sandwiches, and grill them.
What kind of cheese works best for patty melts?
Swiss cheese and cheddar are popular choices for patty melts because they melt well and offer great flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Gouda, or American cheese for a twist.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, pressing them down with a spatula to crisp up the bread again and melt the cheese.
Conclusion
The Grilled Cheese Patty Melt is the ultimate comfort food, blending the best parts of a juicy burger with a gooey, crispy grilled cheese sandwich. With its savory beef patty, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and golden, buttery bread, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser thatโs simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether youโre craving diner-style food at home or looking to whip up a quick meal thatโs packed with flavor, this patty melt recipe is sure to satisfy.
PrintGrilled Cheese Patty Melts Recipe
Grilled Cheese Patty Melts are the ultimate comfort food, blending juicy beef patties, gooey melted cheese, and perfectly caramelized onions between crispy slices of toasted bread. This recipe is quick to make and delivers a savory, satisfying meal thatโs perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve with a side of fries or a pickle for a classic diner experience!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ยฝ cup diced onions
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 tbsp butter
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and cook diced onions until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Form the ground beef into 4 equal patties, season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook in the same skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Place a slice of cheddar and a slice of Swiss cheese on the unbuttered side of four bread slices. Top each with a cooked beef patty and caramelized onions.
- Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
- In a skillet or griddle over medium heat, cook each sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Add sautรฉed mushrooms or pickles for extra flavor.
- Use a mix of cheeses like American or pepper jack for a twist on the classic.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
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