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 is one of my favorite comfort foods. I remember making it for my family on chilly evenings and everyone always asked for seconds.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) 80/20 blend recommended
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp plus 1/4 tsp for onions
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Yellow onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp for onions, 4 tbsp softened for bread
- Rye bread: 8 slices
- Swiss cheese: 8 slices
- Mayonnaise (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare Patties:
- 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
- Caramelize Onions:
- 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
- Cook Patties:
- 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
- Assemble Melt:
- 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
- Cook Melt:
- 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
- Serve:
- Slice each patty melt in half and serve hot
Save My family and I enjoy this meal during weekend dinners This recipe brings back wonderful memories of cozy gatherings around the table
Notes
For extra flavor spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inside of the bread before assembling Try with cheddar or American cheese for a twist Serve with pickles or French fries for an authentic diner experience
Required Tools
Cast iron skillet Mixing bowl Spatula Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 690 Total Fat 39 g Carbohydrates 42 g Protein 39 g per serving
Save This patty melt skillet recipe is a perfect blend of comfort and flavor. Serve it hot and enjoy every bite.
Common recipe questions
- → What type of beef is best for patties?
Use an 80/20 blend of ground beef for juicy, flavorful patties that hold together well during cooking.
- → How do I caramelize onions correctly?
Cook thinly sliced onions in butter over medium heat with a pinch of salt, stirring occasionally until they turn golden and sweet, about 12–15 minutes.
- → Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Yes, cheddar or American cheese can be used for a different but delicious flavor profile.
- → Why is cast iron recommended for cooking?
Cast iron provides even heat distribution and creates a perfectly crispy crust on the bread while melting the cheese evenly.
- → Any tips for assembly?
Butter the bread slices before assembling and press gently with a spatula while cooking to ensure an even golden crust and melted cheese.