Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Secret Sauce:
Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, barbecue sauce, and hot sauce in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy. Let it chill while you prepare the rest of the ingredients so the flavors meld together.
Season and Shape the Patties:
Combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix with your hands until just combined; be careful not to overwork. Shape the mixture into six oval patties — a shape that fits better on bread than rounds.
Caramelize the Onions:
Slice onions thinly and melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook slowly for about twenty minutes, stirring every few minutes until they turn deep golden and soft. This step develops the sweet flavor essential for a classic patty melt.
Cook the Patties:
Heat a separate skillet on medium-high, and cook each patty for about two minutes per side. You want a nice crust on both sides but do not cook them all the way through because they will finish in the sandwich.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
Butter the outer sides of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, spread a spoonful of secret sauce. Layer with caramelized onions, a slice of cheese, a cooked beef patty, another slice of cheese, more onions, and a bit more sauce. Top with another slice of bread, butter side out.
Toast the Patty Melts:
Wipe out the skillet and heat over medium. Place assembled sandwiches in the pan and cook three to four minutes per side, pressing down gently, until deeply golden and the cheese inside has melted. Work in batches if needed so you do not overcrowd the pan.
Serve Hot:
Slice each patty melt in half and serve immediately while the cheese is oozy and the bread is crisp. Enjoy with extra secret sauce for dipping if you like.
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