The Best Homemade Patty Melt Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade patty melt recipe is a total winner, combining comfort food vibes with easy-to-follow steps. You’ll love how simple it is to make something so delicious right in your own kitchen! First, it’s loaded with flavor from juicy beef, caramelized onions, and melty cheese. Second, it’s super customizable—tweak it to match your taste buds perfectly. Finally, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Recipe

A patty melt is a delicious sandwich that combines a juicy beef patty with caramelized onions and melted cheese, all sandwiched between slices of buttery grilled rye bread. This classic diner favorite is easy to make at home and delivers rich, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices rye bread
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or American cheese)
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 15-20 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Divide the ground beef into 2 equal portions and shape into patties slightly larger than the bread slices. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
- Assemble the sandwiches: Layer a slice of cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese between two slices of rye bread.
- Melt the remaining butter in the skillet over medium heat. Grill each sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef patties.
- If you prefer, substitute Swiss cheese with American or cheddar.
Equipment:
- Skillet
- Spatula
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
2 servings
Nutrition
This homemade patty melt recipe is a delicious and hearty meal. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 |
| Total Fat | 42g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 950mg |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 32g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my patty melt with classic sides like crispy fries or onion rings, but sometimes I want something lighter. A quick salad with fresh greens and a tangy dressing balances the richness perfectly. Either way, these pairings make the meal feel complete without extra fuss.
Classic Side Options
When I’m whipping up a patty melt, I always think about what’ll make the meal feel complete, and that’s where classic side dishes come in. You can’t go wrong with crispy fries or onion rings—they’re total comfort food and pair perfectly with the sandwich. Sometimes, I’ll add a bowl of creamy coleslaw or a handful of pickles for a tangy crunch. If I’m feeling a bit fancy, I’ll toss in some sweet potato fries or a side of baked beans. These sides are simple, satisfying, and make the whole meal feel like a cozy treat.
Quick Salad Pairings
If you’re looking to balance out that hearty patty melt with something fresh, a quick salad can be just the thing. I love tossing together a mix of healthy greens—like crisp romaine or peppery arugula—with a handful of cherry tomatoes and cucumber slices. A sprinkle of crispy croutons adds the perfect crunch without overpowering the melt’s rich flavors. For dressing, I keep it simple with lemon vinaigrette or a light ranch. It’s easy, invigorating, and cuts through the cheesiness of the sandwich. Trust me, this combo hits the spot every time!