Name: Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 lb ground beef; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional); 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp ketchup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard or yellow mustard; 1 tbsp pickle relish; 1/4 tsp garlic powder (for sauce); 1/4 tsp paprika; 4 slices rye bread or sourdough; 2 tbsp butter (for toasting); 1 medium yellow or white onion, thinly sliced; 4 slices Swiss or American cheese

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Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are the ultimate diner-style comfort food—crispy toasted bread, juicy beef patties, melty cheese, caramelized onions, and a creamy, tangy sauce that ties it all together. It’s like the perfect cross between a cheeseburger and grilled cheese, and I can’t get enough of it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how satisfying and nostalgic this meal is. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and comes together with simple ingredients. The secret sauce adds just the right kick, and the golden, crispy bread gives every bite that perfect crunch. It’s comfort food done right—easy, quick, and always delicious. Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the patties:

Ground beef
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder (optional)

For the secret sauce:

Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
Pickle relish
Garlic powder
Paprika

For the sandwich:

Rye bread or sourdough
Butter (for toasting)
Yellow or white onions, thinly sliced
Slices of Swiss or American cheese

Directions

I start by mixing the secret sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set it aside.
I shape the ground beef into thin, wide patties that match the shape of the bread. I season with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder.
I cook the patties in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through—about 3–4 minutes per side. I set them aside.
In the same skillet, I reduce the heat and cook the sliced onions in a little butter until caramelized—soft, golden, and sweet. This takes about 10–15 minutes.
I butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, I layer cheese, a cooked patty, onions, a spoonful of sauce, more cheese, then the second slice of bread.
I cook the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, pressing gently with a spatula.
I slice and serve immediately, with extra sauce on the side if I want.

Servings and timing

Makes 2 sandwiches
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

I use caramelized mushrooms or sautéed peppers for extra toppings.
I swap Swiss cheese for cheddar, provolone, or a spicy pepper jack.
I use whole grain or Texas toast if I don’t have rye.
I turn it into a breakfast melt by adding a fried egg.

storage/reheating

Patty melts are best fresh, but I store leftovers wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet or oven until heated through and the bread is crisp again. I avoid microwaving to keep the bread from going soggy. Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

FAQs

What makes a patty melt different from a burger?

It’s all about the bread and the cheese—it’s grilled on sliced bread instead of a bun and pressed like a grilled cheese, with caramelized onions and melted cheese throughout.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! I prepare the sauce up to 3 days ahead and keep it in a sealed container in the fridge.

Is there a vegetarian version?

Definitely. I use a veggie burger patty or grilled portobello mushrooms, and everything else stays the same.

Can I caramelize the onions faster?

They take time to get truly soft and golden, but I sometimes speed it up with a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I prefer Swiss for its melt and mild tang, but any melty cheese like cheddar or provolone works perfectly.

Conclusion

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are everything I want in a cozy, indulgent sandwich—crispy, cheesy, savory, and dripping with flavor. Whether I’m recreating a diner favorite or just want a seriously satisfying meal, this recipe always delivers that perfect bite.