Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are the perfect fusion of a classic burger and a grilled cheese sandwich.

With juicy seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, crispy toasted rye bread, and a flavorful homemade sauce, this sandwich delivers a rich, savory bite in every mouthful.

It’s a diner-style comfort food that’s easy to make at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

People will love this Patty Melt recipe because it combines the best of a cheeseburger and a grilled sandwich into one irresistible bite.

The crispy, buttery rye bread contrasts perfectly with the juicy, well-seasoned beef patty, while the melted layers of cheddar and provolone create a rich, cheesy experience.

The secret sauce adds a tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor that elevates the whole dish.

It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for a quick but indulgent meal!

Key Ingredients:

Ground Beef – The heart of the patty melt, seasoned with garlic and onion powder for extra flavor.

Rye Bread – A classic choice that provides a sturdy and slightly tangy base for the sandwich.

Cheddar & Provolone Cheese – A combination of sharp and melty cheeses that add rich, gooey texture.

Butter – Used to toast the bread to golden perfection while adding richness.

Secret Sauce – A flavorful blend of mayonnaise, bacon, ketchup, relish, and sugar, adding a tangy and smoky kick.

Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

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 Sliced provolone cheese

6 Tbsp. Butter softened and unsalted

For the secret sauce:

¼ C. Mayonnaise

2 Tbsp. Chopped bacon pieces

3 Tbsp. Ketchup

1 tsp. Sugar

1 tsp. Relish

Instructions:

Shape the ground beef into three flat patties, ensuring they are close in size to the bread slices.

Sprinkle both sides of the patties with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties until they are fully browned and cooked through. Set aside.

While the patties are cooking, combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and mix until smooth.

Once the skillet is free, wipe it clean and lower the heat to medium.

Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.

Place three slices of bread, buttered side down, into the skillet.

Layer each slice with 2 slices of provolone cheese, followed by a cooked patty, and then 2 slices of cheddar cheese.

Old-Fashioned Caldo de Pollo (Chicken Soup)

Grandma’s Easy Chicken Casserole

Maryland Crab Soup

Spread some of the prepared sauce on the unbuttered side of the remaining bread slices and place them sauce-side down on top of each patty melt.

Once the provolone cheese begins to melt and the bread turns golden brown, carefully flip the patty melts to toast the other side.

Cook until the cheese is fully melted and both sides are crisp and golden.

Remove from the skillet and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Notes:

Bread Choice: Rye bread is traditional, but you can substitute with sourdough or Texas toast for a different texture.

Cheese Options: If you prefer a different melt, Swiss cheese is a great alternative to provolone or cheddar.

Cooking the Patties: Don’t press the patties while cooking, as it will release juices and make them dry.

Sauce Customization: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more or less sugar and relish to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with crispy fries, onion rings, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1 patty melt

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of bread for the patty melts?

Yes, you can certainly use a different type of bread if you prefer.

While rye bread adds a distinctive flavor, you can try other options like sourdough, whole wheat, or even buns for a twist.

Is there a substitute for the secret sauce ingredients?

If you’d like to customize the sauce, you can experiment with different ingredients.

For instance, you might use mustard instead of ketchup or skip the bacon for a vegetarian version.

Can I make these patty melts without the butter?

While butter adds flavor and helps with toasting, you can use a cooking spray or a small amount of oil instead if you’re looking to reduce the butter content.

How can I ensure the meat patties are cooked perfectly?

Cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the patties and your preferred level of doneness.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.

Can I make the secret sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the secret sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the patty melts.

This can save time when you’re cooking.

Can I use a leaner ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can opt for lean ground beef if you’re looking to reduce the fat content.

Just keep in mind that leaner beef might be slightly less juicy, so be cautious not to overcook the patties.

Can I use a grill instead of a skillet to cook the meat patties?

Certainly! You can grill the meat patties instead of cooking them in a skillet.

Just make sure to preheat the grill and cook the patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Is there a substitute for the bacon in the secret sauce?

If you prefer a vegetarian version or don’t have bacon on hand, you can omit it or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative, or even with finely chopped sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the patty melts?

Absolutely! While cheddar and provolone are recommended in the recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese like Swiss, American, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with these patty melts?

Patty melts pair well with various side dishes such as French fries, sweet potato fries, coleslaw, a simple green salad, or even a bowl of soup for a well-rounded meal.