Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

Introduction

I recently made these Patty Melts with Secret Sauce for a family dinner, and they were an absolute hit! The combination of juicy beef patties, gooey melted cheese, and the irresistible secret sauce makes these sandwiches a comfort food favorite. The rich flavors come together perfectly with the rye bread toasted to golden perfection. We all devoured them in no time, and there was an unanimous agreement that they are far superior to the usual burgers we make. The bacon in the secret sauce adds an extra layer of savory goodness that takes the melt to the next level. If you’re looking for a satisfying, easy meal that will impress everyone at the table, these patty melts are a must-try.

Ingredients

For the Patty Melts:

• 1 lb. Ground beef
• 6 slices rye bread
• ½ tsp. Onion powder
• ½ tsp. Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 6 Tbsp. Butter, softened and unsalted

For the Secret Sauce:

• ¼ cup Mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp. Chopped bacon pieces
• 3 Tbsp. Ketchup
• 1 tsp. Sugar
• 1 tsp. Relish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties: Start by shaping the ground beef into three flattened patties that match the shape of your rye bread slices. Season both sides of the patties with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
2. Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, cook the patties until they are fully cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once done, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Mix the Secret Sauce: While the patties are cooking, combine mayonnaise, chopped bacon pieces, ketchup, sugar, and relish in a small bowl. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
4. Prepare the Skillet: Wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel to remove any leftover residue from the patties. Lower the heat to medium to prevent burning the bread while it toasts.
5. Assemble the Patty Melts: Generously butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Place three slices of rye bread, buttered side down, into the skillet. On each slice, layer 2 slices of provolone cheese, one cooked beef patty, and 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
6. Top and Cook: Spread a bit of the secret sauce on the non-buttered side of the remaining slices of bread. Place these slices sauce-side down on top of the assembled patty melts in the skillet.
7. Toast the Sandwiches: Allow the bottom side of the bread to toast and the provolone cheese to melt. Carefully flip each patty melt over to toast the other side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has fully melted.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Once both sides are perfectly toasted and the cheese is melted, remove the patty melts from the skillet. Serve hot with any leftover secret sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 3
Calories per serving: 650-700 (Estimate based on typical ingredients used)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve these patty melts with extra secret sauce on the side for dipping.
• Pair them with a side of crispy fries or potato wedges for a hearty meal.
• Serve with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the melts.
• Enjoy them with a cold drink, such as iced tea or soda, to complete the meal.
• For a twist, try serving with coleslaw on the side for some added crunch and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Lean Beef: If you prefer a leaner option, you can use lean ground beef or even ground turkey for the patties.
2. Toast the Bread Perfectly: Keep an eye on the bread as it toasts to ensure it’s golden and crispy, but not burnt.
3. Add Extra Bacon: For a more intense bacon flavor, add extra crispy bacon to the patty melt itself or on the side as a garnish.
4. Use a Panini Press: If you have a panini press, use it to toast the sandwiches for an even more uniform crispiness.
5. Make Ahead: You can cook the patties in advance and assemble the sandwiches later for a quicker meal.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Patty Melts: Substitute the ground beef with veggie patties or black bean patties for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, Gouda, or Gruyère for unique flavor profiles.
• Bacon Lovers: For extra flavor, add crispy bacon strips between the layers of cheese and beef patties.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños or hot sauce to the secret sauce for a spicy kick.
• Grilled Onions: Top the patty with grilled onions for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve your patty melts with crispy fries, onion rings, or a side of fresh vegetables.
• Drinks: Pair the meal with a refreshing iced tea, craft beer, or soda to complement the rich, savory flavors of the sandwich.
• Appetizer Option: Cut the patty melts into halves or quarters to serve as sliders at a party or gathering.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or oven to maintain their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked patty melts for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of bread?
   Yes, you can use white, whole wheat, or sourdough bread, though rye bread is the traditional choice for patty melts.
2. Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?
   Yes, the secret sauce can be made up to a day ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! Try Swiss, American, or even smoked cheddar for a different flavor.
4. Can I make these with ground turkey or chicken?
   Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
5. How do I prevent the bread from burning while toasting?
   Cook the sandwiches on medium heat and flip them carefully when the bread is golden. You can also cover the skillet with a lid to help melt the cheese without over-toasting the bread.
6. What type of skillet should I use?
   A heavy-duty nonstick or cast-iron skillet works best for even toasting and preventing sticking.
7. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
   Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon, but make sure to chop it finely before adding it to the secret sauce.
8. How do I make the patties juicy?
   Avoid overworking the meat when shaping the patties, and don’t press them too much during cooking. Also, using slightly fattier beef will help keep them juicy.
9. Can I add vegetables to the patty melt?
   Yes! Grilled mushrooms, onions, or even spinach can be added to the patty before assembling the melt.
10. Can I make these into smaller sliders?
    Yes, simply shape the patties into smaller portions and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and crispy, with a delightful twist from the bacon-infused sauce. This recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and will be loved by anyone who enjoys hearty, flavorful sandwiches. Whether you’re making them for a family meal, a party, or just a weekend treat, these patty melts are sure to satisfy your cravings. With the secret sauce adding that extra touch of deliciousness, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!

Print