Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a delectable fusion of a classic burger and a grilled cheese sandwich, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. The combination of juicy, seasoned beef patties, melted cheese, crispy rye bread, and a flavorful secret sauce creates a satisfying and indulgent meal that will leave everyone craving more. This dish is perfect for a hearty lunch or a casual dinner, bringing comfort food to a whole new level.
I first experienced the magic of patty melts at a small diner during a road trip. The buttery, crispy bread, the gooey melted cheese, and the savory beef patty were perfectly complemented by a tangy secret sauce. That memorable meal inspired me to recreate the dish at home, and after some experimentation, I found the perfect balance of flavors. This recipe has since become a family favorite, often requested for weekend lunches or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts:
1 lb. ground beef
6 slices rye bread
½ tsp. onion powder
½ tsp. garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 slices cheddar cheese
6 slices provolone cheese
6 tbsp. butter, softened and unsalted
For the Secret Sauce:
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp. chopped bacon pieces
3 tbsp. ketchup
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. relish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Patties
Form the Patties:
Divide 1 lb. of ground beef into three equal portions. Shape each portion into a flattened patty that roughly matches the shape and size of your rye bread slices. This helps ensure the patty fits perfectly in the sandwich.
Season the Patties:
Season both sides of each patty with ½ tsp. of onion powder, ½ tsp. of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. This seasoning blend adds depth of flavor to the meat.
Cook the Patties:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef patties and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 2: Make the Secret Sauce
Mix the Sauce Ingredients:
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp. chopped bacon pieces, 3 tbsp. ketchup, 1 tsp. sugar, and 1 tsp. relish. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. This secret sauce adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements the patty melts.
Step 3: Assemble the Patty Melts
Butter the Bread:
Spread softened butter on one side of each of the 6 slices of rye bread. Ensure the butter is evenly distributed to get a nice, crispy, golden-brown crust when toasted.
Layer the Ingredients:
Place 3 slices of buttered bread, buttered side down, in the same skillet you used to cook the patties. The skillet should now be heated to medium.
On each slice of bread, layer 2 slices of provolone cheese first. This cheese has a mild flavor and melts beautifully, creating a gooey base for the patty.
Place a cooked beef patty on top of the provolone cheese layer.
Add 2 slices of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs well with the beef.
Spread a generous amount of the prepared secret sauce on the non-buttered side of the remaining 3 slices of bread, then place them sauce side down on top of the cheddar cheese, creating a sandwich.
Step 4: Cook the Patty Melts
Toast the Bread:
Cook the patty melts in the skillet over medium heat until the provolone cheese has melted and the bottom slice of bread is golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
Flip and Continue Cooking:
Carefully flip each patty melt using a spatula. Cook the other side until the cheddar cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy, another 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Serve Hot:
Remove the patty melts from the skillet and let them cool slightly on a cutting board before cutting them in half. This makes them easier to handle and prevents the cheese from oozing out too much when sliced.
Enjoy:
Serve the patty melts hot with additional secret sauce on the side for dipping, if desired. They pair wonderfully with fries, a side salad, or even a bowl of soup.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Choices: While cheddar and provolone are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, American, or Monterey Jack.
Different Breads: Rye bread adds a distinctive flavor, but you can use sourdough, whole wheat, or even brioche for a different twist.
Healthier Option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and substitute low-fat cheese and a whole-grain bread for a healthier version.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based burger patties and dairy-free cheese for a vegetarian patty melt.
Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the secret sauce or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy version.
Conclusion
Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are a delightful and satisfying meal that combines the best elements of burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches. The juicy, seasoned beef patties, the melty cheese, and the crispy, buttery rye bread all come together beautifully with the tangy secret sauce, creating a dish that’s sure to please.
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a weekend lunch, or a casual get-together with friends, these patty melts are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe, and savor the smiles it brings to the table.
