- 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 unsalted butter, softened
For the Secret Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp chopped bacon pieces
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp relish
Optional Variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami
- Mix in a pinch of cayenne or sriracha for spice
- Swap onions for bell peppers or jalapeños
- Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties:
- Form the ground beef into 3 flattened patties roughly the same size as your bread slices.
- Season both sides with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook patties until fully cooked, about 7–8 minutes. Remove from pan.
- Make the Sauce:
- While the patties cook, mix together mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish until smooth.
- Prep the Skillet and Bread:
- Wipe the skillet clean and reduce heat to medium.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Assemble the Patty Melts:
- Place three slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
- Top each slice with 2 slices of provolone cheese, a cooked patty, and 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Spread a little of the secret sauce on the non-buttered side of the remaining slices of bread, and place sauce side down on top of the melts.
- Cook Until Golden:
- Flip the patty melts carefully once the provolone has melted and the bottom side of the bread is golden.
- Toast the other side until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Serve:
- Slice and enjoy immediately. These are perfect with extra sauce or your favorite side.
Chef’s Tips
- Use fresh rye bread for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
- The secret sauce can also be used on cheeseburgers, wraps, or as a dipping sauce for fries.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 1,319 | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 74g | Fat: 99g | Saturated Fat: 48g | Cholesterol: 301mg | Sodium: 1,880mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g
Before you go!
Try adding sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or a smoky spice to create your signature patty melt. What’s your favorite twist on a classic melt? Share your ideas and elevate your next sandwich night!