The Patty Melt is a timeless comfort-food sandwich that combines juicy seasoned ground beef, melty cheddar and provolone cheeses, and crispy butter-toasted rye bread. What makes this version truly irresistible is the creamy, smoky homemade secret sauce made with mayonnaise, bacon, and a touch of sweetness. Cooked on a skillet until golden and gooey, this patty melt delivers diner-style flavor right at home.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Fans of classic diner food
- Busy home cooks craving a hearty meal
- Sandwich lovers who want something indulgent
- Families looking for an easy stovetop dinner
- Anyone who loves cheesy, beefy comfort food
Why It’s Great
- Rich, savory flavors with minimal ingredients
- No oven required – stovetop only
- Crispy bread with perfectly melted cheese
- Customizable with onions or extra sauce
- Restaurant-quality taste at home
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices rye bread
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Secret Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons crumbled bacon
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon relish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Butter knife
- Measuring spoons
How to Make Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
1. Prepare the Secret Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish. Mix well until smooth. Set aside.
2. Season and Shape the Beef
In a bowl, season the ground beef with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide into 3 equal portions and shape into thin patties slightly larger than the bread slices.
3. Cook the Beef Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches
Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, spread secret sauce. Layer cheddar cheese, cooked beef patty, provolone cheese, and top with another slice of bread (buttered side facing out).
5. Grill to Perfection
Place sandwiches in the skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Serve
Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve hot.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers wrapped tightly for up to 2 days
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best texture
- Freezing: Not recommended once assembled
FAQ
Can I add onions?
Yes! Caramelized onions are a classic and delicious addition.
Can I use a different bread?
Rye bread is traditional, but sourdough or Texas toast works well.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Absolutely. The secret sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
What meat works best?
Ground beef with some fat (80/20) gives the juiciest result.
Conclusion
This Patty Melt with Secret Sauce is the ultimate comfort sandwich—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with cheesy, savory goodness. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves classic American diner flavors.
