PATTY MELT: THE ULTIMATE DINER-STYLE COMFORT SANDWICH

Patty Melt: The Ultimate Diner-Style Comfort Sandwich

Key Info:

– Prep Time: 20 minutes
– Cook Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 55 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Difficulty: Moderate
– Diet: Contains dairy, beef

Equipment Needed:

– Cast iron skillet
– Large mixing bowl
– Flat spatula
– Sharp knife
– Cutting board

Ingredients:

Meat & Cheese:

– 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
– 8 slices Swiss cheese
– Kosher salt
– Black pepper
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Bread & Butter:

– 8 slices rye bread
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– ¼ tsp garlic powder (optional)

Caramelized Onions:

– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– Pinch of salt

Burger Sauce:

– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– Pickle relish to taste

Method:

1. Make Burger Sauce

– Whisk mayo, ketchup, mustard, and relish
– Refrigerate until ready to use

2. Caramelize Onions

– Heat butter in skillet over medium-low
– Add sliced onions with salt
– Stir frequently, cook 15-25 minutes until deep golden
– Remove and set aside

3. Prepare Burger Patties

– Mix ground beef with Worcestershire, salt, pepper
– Form 4 patties sized to fit bread
– Do not overwork meat

4. Cook Burger Patties

– Heat skillet to medium-high
– Cook patties 3-4 minutes per side
– Aim for 160°F internal temperature
– Remove and let rest

5. Assemble Sandwiches

– Spread sauce on bread slices
– Layer: cheese, patty, caramelized onions, more cheese
– Close sandwich

6. Grill Sandwiches

– Butter exterior of bread
– Grill over medium heat 2-3 minutes per side
– Press gently, cover if needed
– Ensure golden brown, cheese melted

Crucial Tips:

– Low, slow heat for perfect onions
– Don’t compress burger patties
– Butter bread generously for crispy exterior
– Cover while grilling for even cheese melt

Storage:

– Refrigerate up to 3 days
– Reheat in skillet, not microwave

Variations:

– Swap Swiss for cheddar
– Use sourdough instead of rye
– Add bacon or mushrooms
– Plant-based meat option available

Pro Tips:

– Use 80/20 beef for juiciest patties
– Caramelization takes patience
– Adjust sauce to taste
– Clean skillet between batches

Dietary Adaptations:

– Vegetarian: Plant-based meat
– Gluten-free: Gluten-free bread
– Dairy-free: Non-dairy cheese

Nutrition Highlights:

– High protein
– Good calcium source
– Significant fat content

Serving Suggestions:

– Serve with dill pickles
– Extra burger sauce on side
– Pair with crisp salad or fries