### Ultimate Classic Patty Melt: A Timeless Comfort Favorite

If there's one dish that embodies the essence of classic American comfort food, it's the Patty Melt. This beloved sandwich combines the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese, making it an irresistible choice for any meal. With its juicy beef patty, caramelized onions, and melted cheese all nestled between slices of buttery, crispy bread, the Ultimate Classic Patty Melt is a timeless favorite that never fails to satisfy.

#### What Makes the Patty Melt So Special?

The Patty Melt stands out for its perfect blend of flavors and textures. It takes the deliciousness of a hamburger and adds the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich. The result? A sandwich that’s both hearty and comforting, with layers of savory goodness in every bite. The combination of the tender beef patty, sweet caramelized onions, and melted cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors that makes this dish a standout.

#### Key Ingredients for a Perfect Patty Melt

To make the Ultimate Classic Patty Melt, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:

- **Ground Beef* High-quality ground beef, preferably 80/20 for the right fat-to-meat ratio, ensures a juicy and flavorful patty.
- **Onions* Sweet onions are best for caramelizing. They add a rich, savory-sweet flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- **Cheese* Swiss cheese is traditional, but you can also use American or cheddar for a different twist.
- **Bread* Rye bread is classic, but you can use other types of bread like sourdough or whole wheat if preferred.
- **Butter* For grilling the bread to a perfect golden brown.

#### Step-by-Step Recipe

**1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions*
Slice the onions thinly and cook them slowly over medium heat in a bit of butter or oil until they turn a deep golden brown. This process usually takes about 15-20 minutes, so be patient — the caramelization adds a sweet depth of flavor.

**2. Form and Cook the Patties*
While the onions are cooking, shape your ground beef into thin patties. Season with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties until they reach your desired level of doneness, usually about 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Set the patties aside.

**3. Assemble the Patty Melts*
Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, place a slice of cheese, followed by a beef patty, a generous portion of caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with another slice of bread, buttered side up.

**4. Grill to Perfection*
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure even grilling.

**5. Serve and Enjoy*
Slice the sandwiches in half and serve hot. Enjoy with a side of pickles, fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

#### Tips for the Ultimate Patty Melt

- **Make Patties Thin* Thin patties cook more evenly and fit better in the sandwich, allowing for a better cheese-to-meat ratio.
- **Butter Generously* Don’t skimp on the butter for grilling the bread. It helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- **Preheat Your Pan* Make sure your skillet is well-heated before adding the sandwiches to ensure even grilling.
- **Add Extras* Feel free to add extras like sautéed mushrooms, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a dollop of mustard for extra flavor.

#### Why You'll Love This Patty Melt

The Ultimate Classic Patty Melt is more than just a sandwich; it's a comforting, indulgent treat that brings a sense of nostalgia and satisfaction. It’s perfect for casual dinners, weekend lunches, or even as a special treat for guests. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your comfort food repertoire.

#### Final Thoughts

The Patty Melt is a timeless classic that beautifully combines the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich. With its juicy beef, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, this Ultimate Classic Patty Melt is the epitome of comfort food. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of culinary nostalgia that never goes out of style!

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Ready to make your own Ultimate Classic Patty Melt? Pin this recipe and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal anytime! 🍔🧀