Patty Melts with Secret Sauce

These Patty Melts with Secret Sauce take the classic diner sandwich to a whole new level. Juicy seasoned beef patties, plenty of melty cheese, buttery toasted rye, and a smoky-sweet “secret sauce” come together for a comforting, flavor-packed meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a fun weekend treat, these patty melts deliver the ultimate balance of crispy, gooey, and savory in every bite.

Ingredients

For the patty melts:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices rye bread
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 6 slices cheddar cheese
• 6 slices provolone cheese
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the secret sauce:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons chopped bacon pieces
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon relish

Directions

1. Shape ground beef into 3 thin patties matching the shape of the rye bread.
2. Season both sides with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook patties over medium-high heat until cooked through; remove from skillet.
4. Mix all secret sauce ingredients in a bowl until combined.
5. Wipe skillet clean and reduce heat to medium.
6. Butter one side of each bread slice.
7. Place 3 slices buttered-side down in the skillet.
8. Top each with 2 slices provolone, a cooked patty, and 2 slices cheddar.
9. Spread sauce on the unbuttered side of remaining bread slices and place sauce-side down on each melt.
10. Cook until bottom is golden and provolone is melted; flip and toast the second side.
11. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 620 kcal | Servings: 3

Tips

• Shape patties slightly larger than the bread; they shrink during cooking.
• Toast slowly over medium heat so the cheese melts fully without burning the bread.

FAQ

Can I use a different bread?
Sourdough or Texas toast also work well if you prefer a milder bread flavor.

Can I swap the cheese?
Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack melt nicely too.

Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes—store in the fridge up to 3 days.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm in a skillet over low heat to re-crisp the bread.