Somewhere between a burger and a grilled cheese lives the patty melt—and it might just be the most underrated comfort food of all time. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t need brioche buns or gourmet toppings. What it needs is rye bread, a well-seasoned beef patty, slow-cooked onions, and just enough melted cheese to glue everything together.
Add a secret sauce to the mix, and suddenly you’re not just making dinner—you’re recreating that late-night diner magic at home.
This version stays true to the classic while sneaking in a sauce that makes people pause mid-bite and ask, “What’s in this?”
Why the Patty Melt Works So Well
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Rye bread brings structure and a subtle tang
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Thin beef patties cook fast and stay juicy
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Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth
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Melted cheese holds everything together
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Secret sauce bridges savory, tangy, and creamy
It’s simple food done with intention—and that’s why it’s unforgettable.
Patty Melts with Secret Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts
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1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best)
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Salt and black pepper
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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1 tablespoon butter (for onions)
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8 slices rye bread
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4 slices Swiss cheese
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4 slices American cheese
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Butter, softened (for grilling)
For the Secret Sauce
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon yellow mustard
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1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ teaspoon garlic powder
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Pinch of black pepper
How to Make Them
