When you think of comfort food, few dishes hit the spot like a patty melt toastie. This sandwich combines the juicy savor of a burger, the crispy toast of a grilled cheese, and the delicious richness of melted cheese and caramelized onions. Whether you’re after a hearty lunch or a quick dinner, patty melt toasties deliver satisfying flavors with every bite. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the perfect patty melt toastie, including helpful tips and recipe variations.
What Are Patty Melt Toasties?
A patty melt toastie is a classic sandwich featuring the following ingredients:
- Ground beef patty (1/3 lb per sandwich)
- Two slices of rye or sourdough bread
- Swiss cheese or another cheese that melts well
- Caramelized onions for sweetness and flavor
- Butter for toasting the bread
- Condiments like mustard or mayo
This sandwich is a satisfying combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, and crispy toasted bread. It’s been a diner staple for decades and remains a favorite for good reason.
The History of Patty Melt Toasties
The origins of the patty melt date back to mid-20th century American diners. It’s a hybrid between a burger and a grilled cheese sandwich, with the use of caramelized onions and rye bread setting it apart. For more historical context on comfort food like this, check out the Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles Recipe that shares a similar comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients for the Perfect Patty Melt Toastie
To create the best patty melt toastie, make sure to gather the following ingredients:
- Ground beef: Use a high-quality 80/20 blend for the juiciest patties.
- Rye or sourdough bread: The bread should be hearty enough to hold up during toasting.
- Swiss cheese: This is the classic cheese for a patty melt, but you can use cheddar or pepper jack for a modern twist.
- Caramelized onions: Slowly cook 1/2 an onion in butter for about 15-20 minutes until it’s soft and golden.
- Butter: This is essential for toasting the bread to golden perfection.
For more tips on working with different bread types and fillings, you might like this Banana Bread Cinnamon Rolls Recipe, which demonstrates the importance of selecting the right bread for texture and flavor.
How to Make Patty Melt Toasties
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious patty melt toastie at home:
1. Prepare the Patty
- Form 1/3 lb of ground beef into a thin patty about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Cook the patty in a skillet over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned.
2. Caramelize the Onions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1/2 a sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Toast the Bread
- Butter one side of each slice of rye or sourdough bread.
- Toast the slices in a skillet until golden and crisp on the outside.
4. Assemble the Sandwich
- Place two slices of Swiss cheese on one slice of the toasted bread.
- Add the cooked patty and top it with the caramelized onions.
- Spread mustard or mayo on the inside of the top slice of bread and press the sandwich together.
5. Melt and Serve
- Place the assembled sandwich back in the skillet and cook over low heat, flipping once, until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Cut the patty melt toastie in half and serve with fries or a simple salad.
Popular Variations of Patty Melt Toasties
While the traditional patty melt toastie is perfect as-is, you can switch things up with these tasty variations:
- Cheddar Deluxe: Use sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder flavor.
- BBQ Twist: Swap the beef patty for BBQ brisket and add barbecue sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef patty with a black bean burger or plant-based patty.
For more comforting recipes with modern twists, explore the Philly Cheesesteak Pasta for an example of fusion-style comfort food.
FAQs About Patty Melt Toasties
What is the best type of bread for patty melts?
Rye bread is the traditional choice, but sourdough and Texas toast are excellent alternatives.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute beef with turkey, chicken, or even pork, depending on your preference.
How do I keep the bread from becoming soggy?
To avoid soggy bread, toast it well before assembling the sandwich and avoid overly greasy patties.
What cheese melts best for patty melts?
Swiss cheese is the classic choice, but provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack also work well.
Conclusion
Patty melt toasties are a classic sandwich that brings together rich flavors and crispy textures for an unforgettable meal. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with modern variations, this sandwich is a winner in any kitchen. Ready to explore more comforting meals? Try pairing your patty melt with other comforting recipes like the Hamburger Steak with Onions and Gravy for the perfect dinner combo!