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 dish reminds me of cozy diner meals and family gatherings where comfort food brings everyone together
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
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Yellow onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp for onions, 4 tbsp softened for bread
- Salt: 1/4 tsp for onions
- 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 to 15 minutes. Remove onions and set aside
- Cook Patties:
- Increase heat to medium-high. Add beef patties to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside
- Assemble Sandwich:
- 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 Sandwiches:
- 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 Making this dish has become a favorite family moment where everyone shares stories over the sizzling skillet
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
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (rye bread) Milk (cheese butter) Soy (Worcestershire sauce may contain soy) Contains Beef Double-check all labels for hidden allergens if necessary
Save This patty melt skillet recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy classic diner flavors at home
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of beef is best for the patties?
An 80/20 ground beef blend is recommended for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
Cook thinly sliced onions low and slow in unsalted butter with a pinch of salt until they turn golden brown, about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- → Why use a cast iron skillet for this dish?
Cast iron maintains even heat for consistent cooking and helps create a crispy crust on the bread and patties.
- → Can I substitute Swiss cheese with other cheeses?
Yes, cheddar or American cheese work well as tasty alternatives, adding different flavors and meltiness.
- → What sides complement this skillet dish best?
Pickles or French fries enhance the rich flavors and provide a classic diner-style accompaniment.