This recipe for Patty Melts with Secret Sauce is a diner classic that hits all the right notes: buttery toasted rye, juicy beef, and a double dose of melted cheese. The addition of bacon bits to the secret sauce adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that sets this version apart.
Ingredients:
| FOR THE PATTY MELTS | AMOUNT |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Rye bread | 6 slices |
| Onion powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Cheddar cheese | 6 slices |
| Provolone cheese | 6 slices |
| Unsalted butter, softened | 6 tablespoons |
| FOR THE SECRET SAUCE | AMOUNT |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped bacon pieces | 2 tablespoons |
| Ketchup | 3 tablespoons |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Relish | 1 teaspoon |
How To Make Patty Melts with Secret Sauce
Step 1: Prep the Patties: Divide the 1 lb of ground beef into 3 equal portions. Shape them into flattened patties that roughly match the shape of your rye bread slices. Season both sides of the meat generously with 1/2 tsp of onion powder, 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, and salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until they are browned and cooked through (about 3/4 minutes per side). Remove the patties from the pan and set them aside.
Step 3: Whisk the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of bacon pieces, 3 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of relish. Whisk until the sauce is well incorporated.
