How to Make a Patty Melt

The patty melt is a classic comfort food that perfectly combines juicy beef, melted cheese, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and buttery toasted bread. This recipe takes it a step further by grilling a flavorful oval-shaped beef patty loaf, adding a rich chipotle burger sauce, and layering it all on perfectly crusted sourdough bread. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or hosting a backyard cookout, this ultimate patty melt recipe will steal the show.

Why use 80/20 ground beef for a patty melt?

80/20 ground beef is ideal for patty melts because it has the perfect fat-to-lean ratio for grilling. The fat ensures the patties stay juicy and flavorful, while the lean meat provides structure. Using 80/20 ground beef also helps the patties maintain their shape during cooking, making it easier to form the oval loaf needed for this recipe.

What makes sourdough bread the best choice for a patty melt?

Sourdough bread elevates the patty melt with its tangy flavor and sturdy texture. It holds up well to the juicy patty and toppings without getting soggy. When toasted with garlic herb butter, sourdough becomes perfectly crisp, adding a delightful crunch that complements the savory layers of bacon, onions, and cheese. It’s the ultimate bread choice for this indulgent sandwich.

Ingredients:

For the Patty Loaf:

•2 pounds 80/20 ground beef

•SPG (Salt, Pepper, Garlic seasoning)

For the Onions:

•2 large white onions, sliced into 1/4” thick discs

•1 pound bacon

For the Burger Sauce:

•1/4 cup mayo

•2 tablespoons chipotle ketchup

•2 tablespoons yellow mustard

•2 tablespoons dill relish

For the Bread:

•Sourdough bread slices

•Garlic Herb compound butter

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Patty Loaf

Start by taking 2 pounds of 80/20 ground beef and forming it into a large oval-shaped loaf about 1/2 inch thick. The oval shape ensures it cooks evenly and fits well on the bread during assembly. Sprinkle both sides generously with SPG (salt, pepper, garlic) seasoning, pressing lightly so the seasoning adheres. Once shaped, place the patties in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes. This step helps the patty hold its shape during grilling and allows the flavors to absorb into the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of bacon over medium heat until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Be sure to lay the bacon flat in the pan so it cooks evenly. Flip as needed to avoid burning and ensure both sides are crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a sheet of aluminum foil and wrap it to keep it warm. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet for the next step—don’t discard it!

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Slice 2 large white onions into 1/4-inch thick discs, ensuring you keep the circular slices intact for even cooking. Place the onion discs in the skillet with the reserved bacon fat, cooking over medium heat. Allow the onions to cook for 4-6 minutes on one side without disturbing them to develop a golden-brown color. Gently flip and cook the other side for another 4-6 minutes until softened and caramelized. Carefully remove the cooked onions and wrap them in aluminum foil to keep warm while you continue.

Step 4: Make the Burger Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons chipotle ketchup, 2 tablespoons yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons dill relish. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. The sauce should have a creamy texture with a hint of tang and spice. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to assemble the patty melt.

Step 5: Grill the Patty Loaf

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Once heated, place the patty loaf onto the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side, allowing a crust to form before flipping. Once flipped, add 3 slices of pepper jack cheese to each patty and top with crispy bacon slices. Close the grill lid and let the patties cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely. When done, carefully remove the patties from the grill and place them on a wire rack to rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy patty.

Step 6: Toast the Bread

Spread garlic herb compound butter evenly on both sides of the sourdough bread slices. Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat and place the buttered bread slices on the surface. Toast each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to avoid burning, and adjust the heat as necessary. Remove the bread and set aside.

Step 7: Assemble the Patty Melt

To assemble the patty melt, spread a generous amount of burger sauce on one slice of toasted sourdough bread. Layer two cooked onion discs on top of the sauce to add sweetness and texture. Next, place the patty loaf with the melted cheese and bacon on top of the onions. Add another dollop of burger sauce on top of the patty for extra flavor. Finish by placing the second slice of toasted sourdough bread on top. Slice in half if desired and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent sandwich!

There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly crafted patty melt, and this recipe delivers on all fronts—juicy beef, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and that signature Garlic Herb toasted sourdough bread. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or treating yourself to a hearty meal, this patty melt is sure to be a hit. Pair it with your favorite sides, like fries or a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal to remember. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out more of my recipes in the link, you won’t be disappointed!

All Recipes

Items Used In This Recipe

Hasty-Bake Grill

Knitted Gloves

Food Processor

Cast Iron Skillet 

Meater +

Charcoal Chimney

Charcoal Starters

Firestarter Guard