Looking for a nostalgic yet elevated comfort food option? Look no further than the Patty Melts with Secret Sauce. This recipe combines the classic flavors of grilled cheese with a gourmet twist, perfect for any meal or occasion.
When you reminisce about your childhood meals, the grilled cheese likely holds a special place in your heart. This recipe takes that familiar comfort and enhances it with layers of depth and flavor, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or shared with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
- Gourmet Upgrade: Elevates the traditional grilled cheese sandwich with flavorful ground beef and two types of cheese.
- Balanced Flavors: The blend of Cheddar and Provolone cheeses ensures a harmonious combination without overwhelming the taste.
- Hearty Rye Bread: The choice of rye bread adds a robust texture and flavor that complements the rich fillings perfectly.
- Versatile Meal: Whether it’s a quick lunch or a picnic spread, these patty melts are sure to please all ages.
Ingredient Notes
This recipe calls for a few simple but essential ingredients:
- Ground beef: 1 lb.
- Rye bread: 6 slices
- Onion powder: ½ tsp.
- Garlic powder: ½ tsp.
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Cheddar cheese: 6 slices
- Provolone cheese: 6 slices
- Butter: 6 tbsp., unsalted and softened
How to Make Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
Step 1: Form the Meat Patties
Shape the ground beef into 3 flattened patties that match the size of your bread slices.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Season both sides of the patties with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Cook the patties on medium-high heat until they are cooked through, then remove them from the pan.
Step 4: Prepare the Secret Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, chopped bacon pieces, ketchup, sugar, and relish until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Patty Melts
- Butter one side of each bread slice and place them buttered side down in a skillet.
- Layer each slice with provolone cheese, a meat patty, and cheddar cheese.
- Spread the secret sauce on the remaining bread slices and place them sauce-side down on top of the assembled melts.
Step 6: Toast and Serve
- Flip the patty melts once the cheese has melted and the bread is toasted.
- Toast the other side until golden brown, then serve hot.
Storage Options
To keep your patty melts fresh and crunchy, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For reheating, use a toaster oven or a traditional oven for the best results. You can also lightly toast the melts in a pan with butter for a quick and crispy finish.
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Twist: Add pepper jack, jalapeno, or chipotle cheese for an extra kick.
- Bold Choices: Experiment with unique cheeses like habanero or ghost pepper for a daring flavor.
What to Serve With Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
- Crispy Chips: A side of potato chips or homemade fries for a classic combo.
- Fresh Salad: A light garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the melts.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage to sip alongside your comforting meal.
- Pickles or Coleslaw: Add a zesty crunch with pickles or a creamy coleslaw side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cheeses?
Yes, you can substitute with adventurous options like pepper jack or habanero cheese for extra heat.
How Do I Store Patty Melts to Prevent Sogginess?
Store your patty melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in a toaster oven or pan with butter to retain their crispiness.
After making these Patty Melts with Secret Sauce, expect a hearty and flavorful sandwich that satisfies your cravings for both comfort and gourmet flavors. The crispy exterior, melty cheese, and savory secret sauce combine to create a memorable dish that will delight kids and adults alike.
Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 6 slices Rye bread
- 1/2 tsp Onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices Cheddar cheese
- 6 slices Provolone cheese
- 6 tbsp Butter unsalted and softened
Instructions
- Form the ground beef into flattened patties matching the size of the bread slices.
- Season the patties with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the patties on medium-high heat until thoroughly cooked, then remove from the pan.
- Prepare the secret sauce by combining mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish.
- Assemble the patty melts by layering bread slices with cheese, meat patties, and the secret sauce. Toast in a skillet until golden brown.
- Enjoy the flavorful and hearty Patty Melts with Secret Sauce hot and crispy!