Patty Melt Recipe

Slice the half onion thinly. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 8–10 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

In a small bowl, stir together mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Set the spread aside.

Divide 0.5 lb ground beef into two equal portions and gently form into two thin patties about the diameter of the bread (they will be slightly larger than the bread). Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender.

Season both sides of each patty with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper total (divide evenly between patties).

Heat a clean heavy skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Add the softened butter and swirl to coat.

Place patties in the skillet. Cook without moving until a brown crust forms, about 3 minutes. Flip and cook the second side 2–3 minutes for medium doneness (adjust to preference). During the last 30–45 seconds of cooking, place one slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese.

Remove patties to a plate and let rest 2 minutes.

Lightly spread the mayonnaise-Dijon mixture on one side of each slice of rye bread.

On one slice (spread side up), arrange half the caramelized onions, then place one cheeseburger patty on top. Add remaining onions over the patty, then top with the second slice of bread (spread side down).

Wipe the skillet if needed, then return to medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to the pan. Place the sandwich in the skillet and press gently with a spatula or a second pan. Cook until the bottom is golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until golden and the bread is crisp, about 2–3 minutes more. If cheese needs more melting, cover briefly for 30–60 seconds.

Remove sandwich from pan and let rest 1 minute. Slice in half and serve immediately.

While the sandwich cooks, bake or air-fry the frozen fries according to package instructions (commonly 425°F/220°C for 18–22 minutes in oven, turning once; or 400°F/200°C for 10–14 minutes in air fryer).

When fries are hot and crisp, toss with 1/4 tsp salt and serve alongside the patty melt.

Chill a 12 oz can or bottle of cola or your preferred soda and serve with the meal. No preparation required.