By eatmundo · July 5, 2026
Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world
11 matchesDishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Classic Diner Patty Melt. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.
Cheese and Onion PieIn the United Kingdom · same ingredients62%
Çiğ Börek (Crimean Tatar Fried Meat Pastry)In Türkiye · same ingredients60%
Handkäse mit Musik (Hessian Hand Cheese with "Music")In Germany · same ingredients57%
A beloved American diner staple, the Patty Melt is a comforting grilled sandwich featuring a savory beef patty, Swiss or cheddar cheese, and perfectly caramelized onions. It's all grilled between two slices of rye bread until golden brown and the cheese is wonderfully melted.
According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Classic Diner Patty Melt from another cuisine is Cheese and Onion Pie (United Kingdom): the two share 62% of their ingredients.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Form 500g ground beef into four 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) thick patties, slightly wider than the bread slices. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- 2
In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp (15g) butter over medium-low heat. Add 1 large sliced onion and cook slowly for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and tender. Remove onions and set aside.
- 3
Increase heat to medium-high. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through (71°C/160°F in the center).
- 4
To assemble: Butter one side of 8 slices of rye bread. Place 4 slices, butter-side down, in the skillet over medium heat.
- 5
Top each bread slice with a slice of cheese, a cooked patty, some caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Place the remaining 4 slices of bread, butter-side up, on top.
- 6
Grill the sandwiches for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a patty melt?
A patty melt is a sandwich originating in the United States, consisting of a ground beef patty, melted cheese, and caramelized onions served between two slices of toasted rye bread. It is commonly consumed as a lunch or dinner staple in American diners.
What type of ground beef is best for a patty melt, and how thick should the patties be?
Use 80/20 ground chuck for the best flavor and juiciness. Form patties 1.25 cm thick, slightly wider than your bread slices, and create a small indentation in the center to prevent bulging.
Should the onions be caramelized or just sautéed for a classic diner patty melt?
For an authentic diner experience, thinly slice your onions and slowly caramelize them over medium-low heat until deeply golden brown and sweet. This process can take 15-20 minutes.
What's the best cheese for a patty melt, and how do I ensure it melts perfectly?
Swiss or cheddar cheese are classic choices for their superior melt. Layer the cheese on the bread below and above the cooked patty, then grill the sandwich for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until the cheese is fully melted.
What's a common mistake when grilling the bread for a patty melt, and how can I avoid it?
A common mistake is using too high heat, which burns the bread before it gets golden and the cheese melts. Cook the buttered bread over medium heat, flipping only once it's deeply golden brown and crispy.
