Patty Melt with Secret Sauce: A Classic Diner Favorite with a Twist

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Secret Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, pickle relish, smoked paprika, and hot sauce (if using).
2. Cover and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the rest of the recipe to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Patties

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.
2. Divide the beef mixture into two equal portions and shape them into patties that are slightly larger than the bread slices (they will shrink as they cook).
3. In the same skillet used for the onions, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melt

1. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
2. Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, onto the skillet. Top each slice with a slice of Swiss cheese, a cooked beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of Swiss cheese.
4. Spread a generous layer of the secret sauce on the unbuttered side of the remaining bread slices, then place them sauce-side down on top of the sandwiches.

Step 5: Grill the Patty Melt

1. Cook the sandwiches for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
2. Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Bread Choice: Rye bread is the traditional choice for a patty melt, but sourdough or even thick-cut white bread works beautifully.
• Cheese Options: Swiss cheese is classic, but feel free to mix it up with cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicier twist.
• Make-Ahead Onions: Caramelized onions can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.