INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare the Secret Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired. Set aside.
Form the Beef Patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty slightly larger than the size of the bread slices. Season the patties generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Grill the Patties: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little more butter to the skillet and place the beef patties in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the patties are cooked to your desired doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty to melt.
Toast the Bread: While the patties are cooking, spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a separate skillet or griddle over medium heat. Toast the bread until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Assemble the Patty Melts: To assemble the Patty Melts, spread a generous amount of the secret sauce on the untoasted side of each slice of bread. Place a cheese-topped beef patty on top of the sauce on 4 of the bread slices. Top each patty with a spoonful of caramelized onions, then cover with the remaining bread slices, sauce side down.
Grill the Sandwiches: Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the Patty Melts from the skillet and let them cool for a minute or two before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible combination of juicy beef, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and secret sauce.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika to the secret sauce.
- Feel free to customize the Patty Melts by using different types of cheese or bread, or adding toppings such as crispy bacon or sliced avocado.
- Make sure to cook the onions low and slow to achieve perfectly caramelized results.
