Smashing Patty Melt with Sauce

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Here’s a complete, expanded recipe write-up for your Smashing Patty Melt with Sauce, including everything you requested:

🍔🧈 Smashing Patty Melt with Sauce 🧀🍞

🌟 Introduction

The patty melt is a glorious cross between a hamburger and a grilled cheese sandwich. With juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese, and golden-buttered rye bread, this dish delivers comfort and indulgence in every bite. Originating in mid-20th century American diners, the patty melt became an icon for its simplicity and irresistible flavor combination. Add a creamy tangy sauce, and you’ve got a meal that satisfies both heart and soul.

📝 Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp sugar (optional, enhances caramelization)

For the Beef Patties

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce (Special Patty Melt Sauce)

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp ketchup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp pickle relish
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

For Assembly

  • 8 slices rye bread (light or dark, your choice)
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for extra flavor)
  • 2 tbsp butter (softened, for spreading on bread)

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

1. Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add sliced onions, sprinkle with salt, and cook slowly for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Optional: Add sugar halfway through for deeper caramelization.
  4. Once golden and sweet, set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Patties

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form into 4 thin, oval-shaped patties (to fit bread slices).
  3. Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to desired doneness.

3. Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, Worcestershire, and paprika.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use.

4. Assemble the Patty Melt

  1. Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
  2. Place 4 slices butter-side down on a skillet or griddle.
  3. Layer each with cheese, caramelized onions, cooked beef patty, sauce, and another slice of cheese.
  4. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.

5. Grill the Sandwich

  1. Cook each sandwich over medium heat, pressing gently with a spatula.
  2. Grill 3–4 minutes per side, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
  3. Slice diagonally and serve hot.

📜 History of the Patty Melt

The patty melt is said to have emerged in American diners during the 1940s–50s. Created as a hearty option between a hamburger and grilled cheese, it became a staple comfort food. Its use of rye bread and Swiss cheese gave it a signature twist that set it apart from the classic burger. Over the decades, it’s remained a timeless favorite, often paired with fries and a milkshake.

💪 Benefits

  • Protein-rich: Beef and cheese provide energy and muscle support.
  • Calcium boost: Swiss cheese is a great source of calcium.
  • Comfort food for the soul: Balances savory, sweet, and creamy textures that boost mood.
  • Customizable: Can be made with turkey, chicken, or plant-based patties.

🏗️ Formation (How It Comes Together)

  1. Foundation: Buttered rye bread.
  2. Layering: Cheese → Beef patty → Caramelized onions → Sauce → Cheese.
  3. Sealing: Topped with bread and grilled until perfectly melted.

❤️ Lovers of the Patty Melt

  • Diner fans who adore classic American comfort food.
  • Cheese lovers craving gooey, melted layers.
  • Beef enthusiasts who want a burger in sandwich form.
  • Homestyle cooks seeking nostalgia on a plate.

🍽️ Nutrition (per sandwich, approximate)

  • Calories: 680
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 42g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 960mg

(Values may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.)

🎯 Conclusion

The Smashing Patty Melt with Sauce isn’t just a sandwich—it’s an experience. A bite of this buttery, cheesy, beefy creation takes you straight back to cozy diners and comfort-filled kitchens. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging solo when you need a hearty, satisfying meal.

Would you like me to also create a gourmet twist version (like with caramelized mushrooms, gruyère, and truffle aioli) for a fancier take on this classic?

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