Smashing Patty Melts Sauce

Storage Tips

Store leftover melts wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore crispness. Do not microwave these if you want to keep the bread from turning soggy. You can freeze caramelized onions separately for weeks in an airtight container.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap in sourdough or whole wheat bread for rye if you prefer something milder. Try provolone or mozzarella in place of Swiss for a different melting cheese. If you want lighter patties ground turkey works too just keep the seasonings generous.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crunchy dill pickles and a simple green salad for balance. These are also perfect with roasted potato wedges or classic potato chips. If you have confidential sauce on hand spoon a little inside each sandwich for extra flavor.

A Little Background

Patty melts first appeared in mid century American diners as a creative way to blend hamburgers with grilled cheese sandwiches. Rye bread and Swiss cheese became the hallmark combo and the tradition stuck across generations. In our house patty melts mean family movie night or a celebratory lazy Sunday lunch.

Pro Tips

• Let the onions cook low and slow for the deepest flavor
• Butter the bread right before grilling so it stays crisp
• Form the patties a bit larger than your bread they will shrink up just right

Recipe FAQs