Save A classic American comfort dish featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese, all layered over golden rye bread and cooked in a cast iron skillet for an irresistible crispy finish.
This hearty patty melt skillet recipe brings back the nostalgia of diner comfort food served right from my cast iron skillet, perfect for gatherings or solo indulgence.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
- Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
- Yellow onions: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp for onions plus 4 tbsp softened for bread
- Salt: 1/4 tsp for onions
- Rye bread: 8 slices
- Swiss cheese: 8 slices
- Mayonnaise (optional): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Prepare patties:
- In a mixing bowl combine ground beef Worcestershire sauce garlic powder salt and pepper Divide into 4 equal patties slightly larger than bread slices
- Caramelize onions:
- Heat cast iron skillet over medium heat Add 2 tbsp butter onions and 1/4 tsp salt Cook stirring occasionally until golden and caramelized about 12 15 minutes Remove onions and set aside
- Cook patties:
- Increase heat to medium high Add beef patties to skillet cook 3 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through Remove and set aside
- Assemble sandwiches:
- Wipe skillet clean Butter one side of each bread slice Place 4 slices buttered side down in skillet Top each with slice of Swiss cheese beef patty caramelized onions another slice of Swiss cheese finish with second bread slice buttered side up
- Grill sandwiches:
- Cook over medium heat until bread is golden brown and cheese melts about 3 minutes per side Press gently with spatula for even crust
- Serve:
- Slice each patty melt in half and serve hot
Save My family loves gathering around the table enjoying these skillet patty melts especially during cozy weekend dinners when comfort food is a must.
Tips for Perfect Patties
Make sure not to overmix the ground beef to keep patties tender and juicy for the best texture and flavor.
Cheese Variations
Try swapping Swiss cheese with cheddar or American cheese for a different melty and flavorful experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your patty melt skillet with French fries or pickles to capture that authentic diner vibe at home.
Save This patty melt skillet recipe combines simple ingredients into a dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve perfectly caramelized onions?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium heat in butter, stirring occasionally until they turn golden and soft, about 12-15 minutes.
- → What is the best beef blend for patties?
Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for the right balance of flavor and juiciness without excess fat.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, cheddar or American cheese work well and offer a different but delicious flavor profile.
- → How do I get a crispy bread crust?
Butter the bread slices generously and cook in a hot cast iron skillet until golden brown on each side.
- → Is mayonnaise necessary in assembly?
Mayonnaise is optional but adds extra moisture and tang if spread inside the bread before layering.