Patty Melt
If you’re craving a satisfying meal that combines the best of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich, look no further than the patty melt. This classic American dish features a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and caramelized onions, all nestled between two slices of perfectly toasted bread. It’s a comfort food favorite that’s sure to please any crowd, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
– 4 slices of American cheese (or Swiss)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 2 hearty servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 patty melt) contains approximately:
– Calories: 650
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 40g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat.
2. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet.
3. Add the sliced onions and sauté until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
4. While onions cook, form the ground beef into two patties.
5. Season the patties with salt and pepper.
6. In a separate skillet, cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
7. Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
8. Remove the patties and set aside.
9. Butter one side of each bread slice.
10. Assemble the sandwich with the patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese, then grill until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to use different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
Patty melts pair wonderfully with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even a side of coleslaw. For a complete meal, consider serving with a pickle on the side.
Storage and Reheating
To store, wrap the patty melt tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the beef patty; it should be juicy.
– Don’t skimp on the butter when grilling; it adds flavor.
– Ensure the cheese is sufficiently melted before serving.
– Use low heat to avoid burning the bread while toasting.
– Skip the onions if you’re short on time, but they enhance flavor.
Helpful Tips
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patty reaches 160°F.
– Toast the bread before assembling for extra crunch.
– Experiment with different bread types for unique flavors.
– Let the patty rest for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
What is a patty melt?
A patty melt is a sandwich that combines a hamburger patty, melted cheese, and caramelized onions, served between two slices of grilled bread. It’s a delicious twist on a traditional burger.
Can I make a patty melt in advance?
While the patty melt is best fresh, you can prepare the patties and onions ahead of time. Assemble and grill just before serving for optimal taste.
What types of cheese work best?
American cheese is traditional for its meltability, but you can also use Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian patty melt?
Absolutely! Use a veggie burger or a portobello mushroom as a substitute for the beef patty for a vegetarian-friendly option.
How can I make it healthier?
Opt for lean ground beef or turkey and whole-grain bread, and load up on fresh vegetables for added nutrition.
Conclusion
The patty melt is a timeless dish that blends the comfort of a burger with the nostalgia of a grilled cheese. With its juicy patty, gooey cheese, and toasted bread, it’s a meal that satisfies cravings and brings joy to any table. Enjoy making this classic at home!
Patty Melt
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices of rye or sourdough bread
- 4 slices of American cheese
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Add the sliced onions and sauté until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Form the ground beef into two patties and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the patties in a separate skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- Remove the patties and set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble the sandwich with the patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese.
- Grill the sandwich until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious patty melt.
