Cheesy Patty Melts with Special Sauce combine the rich, savory flavors of a classic burger with the toasty, gooey goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich. Featuring perfectly seasoned beef patties, layers of melty cheddar and provolone, and a tangy bacon-loaded special sauce, these patty melts are a mouthwatering comfort food masterpiece.
With their buttery, crisp rye bread and oozing cheesy layers, these patty melts are the perfect choice for a satisfying lunch, dinner, or indulgent treat on a cozy weekend.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Rich and Savory: Bold flavors from the seasoned patties, melted cheese, and special sauce.
• Easy to Make: Quick to prepare with simple ingredients.
• Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Patty Melts:
• 1 pound ground beef
• 6 slices rye bread
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened and unsalted
For the Special Sauce:
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped bacon pieces
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon relish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
1. Divide the ground beef into three equal portions and shape each portion into a patty that matches the size of your bread slices.
2. Season both sides of each patty with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the patties until browned and fully cooked, about 4–5 minutes per side.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Special Sauce
1. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish until well combined. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Patty Melts
1. Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
2. Place three slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet over medium heat.
3. Layer two slices of provolone cheese, a cooked beef patty, two slices of cheddar cheese, and spread some special sauce on the inside of the remaining bread slices.
4. Top the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, sauce side down.
Step 5: Cook the Patty Melts
1. Cook the sandwiches until the bottom bread is golden brown and toasted, and the cheese starts to melt.
2. Flip carefully and cook the second side until it’s toasted and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 6: Serve
1. Remove the patty melts from the skillet and let them rest for 1–2 minutes.
2. Slice in half if desired and serve hot.
Tips
• Customize Your Cheese: Swap in Swiss, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
• Rye Bread Substitute: Use sourdough or thick white bread if rye isn’t your favorite.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce to the special sauce or sprinkle some jalapeño slices inside the sandwich.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for the best texture.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties and assemble the melts fresh when ready to cook.
Cheesy Patty Melts with Special Sauce are a decadent and satisfying meal that combines all the best elements of a burger and a grilled cheese. Serve with fries, a salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for a meal that hits all the right notes!
