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Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Looking for a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and sure to win over everyone at the table? Look no further!

This classic patty melt recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or weekend indulgence. With buttery rye bread, juicy beef patties, melty cheese, and a tangy homemade sauce, this dish is a comforting favorite that never goes out of style.

Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate patty melt that will leave your family asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The patty melt is the ultimate mash-up of a cheeseburger and a grilled cheese sandwich. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with textures that make every bite irresistible. Best of all, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

This recipe combines savory ground beef patties seasoned to perfection, two types of gooey cheese, crispy buttered rye bread, and a tangy sauce that takes it to the next level. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

6 slices rye bread – The bold flavor of rye bread perfectly complements the savory beef and cheese.
6 tablespoons butter – Softened butter ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
1 pound ground beef – The star of the show! Fresh ground beef makes all the difference.
3⁄4 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a touch of spice and depth.
1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
1⁄4 teaspoon onion powder – A subtle hint of onion without overpowering the dish.
3 tablespoons mayonnaise – The base for a creamy, tangy sauce.
2 tablespoons ketchup – Sweet and savory goodness.
1 tablespoon real bacon bits – Because everything’s better with bacon!
1 teaspoon sweet relish – A touch of sweetness and crunch.
1 teaspoon white sugar – Balances out the tangy flavors in the sauce.
6 slices cheddar cheese – Sharp and creamy for that classic patty melt flavor.
6 slices Provolone cheese – Smooth and melty for extra indulgence.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Bread

Start by thoroughly buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. This step ensures your patty melts will have that perfect golden crunch when toasted later. Set the bread aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Season and Shape Your Patties

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with pepper, salt, and onion powder. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Divide the mixture into three equal portions and shape each into patties that match the size and shape of your bread slices.

3. Cook the Patties

Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping carefully to avoid breaking them. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the centers are uniformly brown with no pink remaining.

Pro Tip: Use a digital thermometer to check the internal temperature of each patty. They should reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

4. Make the Sauce

While your patties cook, whip up your homemade sauce in a small bowl. Combine mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, sweet relish, and sugar. Stir until well-blended, then set aside. This sauce is the perfect tangy complement to your patty melts!

5. Assemble the Patty Melts

Heat a second skillet over medium-low heat. Place one slice of bread (butter-side down) into the skillet—add as many slices as will fit comfortably without overcrowding.

Top each slice of bread with two slices of cheddar cheese, followed by a cooked beef patty and two slices of Provolone cheese. Spread a generous layer of sauce on the unbuttered side of another slice of bread, then place it (sauce-side down) on top of the last layer of cheese to complete your sandwich.

6. Toast to Perfection

Cook each patty melt for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is lightly toasted and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and gooey by this point—pure perfection! Repeat these steps until all three patty melts are ready to serve.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Remove your patty melts from the skillet, slice them in half for easy handling, and serve immediately while warm. Pair them with a side of fries, chips, or even a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and high-quality cheeses make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Butter Generously: Don’t skimp on butter—it’s key to achieving that crispy golden crust on your rye bread!
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to tweak the sauce ingredients to suit your taste buds—add hot sauce for spice or extra relish for sweetness.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook each patty melt one at a time or in batches to ensure even toasting and melting of cheese.
Check Temperature: Always use a thermometer to confirm your patties are cooked to 160°F for safety and optimal taste.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of this classic patty melt contains approximately 1242 calories—a hearty meal that’s perfect for indulging every now and then! While it’s not an everyday dish, it’s certainly worth treating yourself to when you’re craving comfort food at its finest.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy patty melt with perfectly seasoned beef and buttery toasted bread. This classic recipe brings together all the elements of comfort food in one delicious package—and it’s surprisingly easy to make!

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen repertoire. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this timeless dish that never fails to impress!

Have you tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Happy cooking!

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The Ultimate Classic Patty Melt Recipe