Absolutely! Here’s how to make Diner-Style Patty Melts — a crispy, melty, beefy classic with caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and grilled rye bread. Think of it as the perfect cross between a burger and a grilled cheese. 🍔🧀
🥪 Diner-Style Patty Melts
📝 Ingredients (Makes 4 sandwiches)
For the Onions:
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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1 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Pinch of salt
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Optional: ½ tsp sugar (helps caramelize)
For the Patties:
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1½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80/20 recommended)
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Salt & pepper
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Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder
Assembly:
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8 slices rye bread (or sourdough or Texas toast if preferred)
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8 slices Swiss or American cheese (or a combo)
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Soft butter, for spreading on bread
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Optional: Thousand Island or spicy mustard for spreading
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions (Low & Slow)
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Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and optional sugar.
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Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally for 20–30 minutes, until deep golden brown. Set aside.
2. Make the Burger Patties
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Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions and flatten into thin, oval-shaped patties roughly the size of the bread.
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Season both sides with salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
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Cook patties in a hot skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, about 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through and browned.
Drain excess grease if needed.
Set aside.
3. Assemble the Patty Melts
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Lay out bread slices.
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Butter one side of each slice.
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On the unbuttered side: layer cheese, patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side out.
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4. Grill the Sandwiches
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Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
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Grill each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
🧾 Optional Add-Ons:
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Spread Thousand Island, Dijon mustard, or spicy mayo inside the sandwich before assembling.
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Add sautéed mushrooms or bacon for an extra twist.
🍽️ Serve With:
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French fries, potato chips, or a classic pickle spear
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Or pair with a diner-style milkshake for the full retro vibe