Patty Melts with Special Sauce Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein for the patty melts, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Sliced onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized.

Rye bread: A hearty bread that holds up well to grilling and adds a unique flavor.

Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture.

Butter: Used for caramelizing the onions and grilling the sandwiches.

Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the special sauce, adding creaminess.

Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweetness to the special sauce.

Dill pickle relish: Provides a tangy crunch in the special sauce.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor to the special sauce.

Caramelizing onions requires patience. Cook them slowly over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown. This process can take up to 30 minutes but results in a rich, sweet flavor that enhances the patty melts.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• sliced onion - Substitute with caramelized shallots: Caramelized shallots offer a sweeter and more delicate flavor compared to onions.

• rye bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread is a healthier alternative and still provides a robust flavor.

• swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese melts well and has a mild, creamy flavor similar to Swiss cheese.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and can be used for cooking and adding flavor.

• mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a lower-fat alternative that still provides creaminess and tang.

• ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste is less sweet and more concentrated, providing a richer tomato flavor.

• dill pickle relish - Substitute with chopped dill pickles: Chopped dill pickles offer the same tangy flavor and crunch as relish.

• worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor and can be used in equal amounts.

• Allow the patty melts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.

• Wrap each patty melt individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the bread from drying out.

• Place the wrapped patty melts in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This provides an extra layer of protection against freezer burn and helps keep the sandwiches fresh.

• Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the patty melts have been stored.

• Store the patty melts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep them longer, place them in the freezer.

• For freezing, ensure the patty melts are tightly wrapped and stored in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• When ready to eat, thaw the patty melts in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This ensures even reheating.

• Reheat the patty melts in a skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt evenly and the bread to crisp up.

• Alternatively, you can reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the bread.

• Avoid microwaving the patty melts as it can make the bread soggy and the meat tough.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each patty melt in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• For a quicker method, use a skillet. Heat it over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Place the patty melts in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the patty melt on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the patty melts in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

• Toaster ovens are also a great option. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the patty melts on the rack. Heat for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden and crispy.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine all the ingredients for the special sauce.

• Skillet: This is essential for cooking both the caramelized onions and the beef patties.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties and the assembled sandwiches.

• Knife: Necessary for slicing the onions.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the onions.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure out the mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and Worcestershire sauce for the special sauce.

• Measuring cup: Useful for measuring the ¼ cup of mayonnaise.

• Plate: To hold the cooked patties and caramelized onions before assembling the sandwiches.

• Butter knife: For spreading the special sauce on the rye bread slices.

• Grill press: Optional, but can be used to press the sandwiches down in the skillet for even grilling.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the bread and patties while cooking.

Prepare the special sauce ahead: Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, dill pickle relish, and worcestershire sauce in advance and store in the fridge.

Caramelize onions in bulk: Cook a large batch of sliced onions and freeze portions for future use.

Pre-form patties: Shape the ground beef into patties and store them in the fridge, ready to cook.

Use a griddle: Cook multiple patties and sandwiches at once to save time.

Pre-slice cheese and bread: Have your rye bread and swiss cheese ready to go for quick assembly.