If you love the comforting flavor of a juicy burger and the crispy, golden crunch of grilled cheese, then Patty Melts with Secret Sauce are about to become your new obsession. This classic diner-style sandwich brings together perfectly seasoned beef patties, melted cheese, and a buttery toasted rye bread — all tied together with a mouthwatering, smoky-sweet secret sauce that makes every bite unforgettable. There’s something truly nostalgic about a patty melt — it’s hearty, gooey, and satisfyingly messy in the best possible way. The combination of cheddar and provolone cheese creates that irresistible stretch and richness, while the buttery toasted bread adds crunch to balance out the creamy sauce. It’s simple comfort food elevated to something extraordinary. What really sets this recipe apart is the secret sauce. A blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, crispy bacon bits, and a hint of sugar gives it a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy. It complements the juicy burger beautifully, soaking into the bread just enough to make it extra flavorful without turning it soggy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a classic American diner experience at home, these Patty Melts with Secret Sauce will hit the spot every single time. Pair them with fries, onion rings, or even a crisp salad — and you’ve got the ultimate comfort meal ready to enjoy.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Patty Melts:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 6 slices rye bread
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
For the Secret Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp chopped bacon pieces
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp relish
👩🍳 Directions
- Form the patties: Shape the ground beef into 3 evenly sized patties, roughly matching the size of your bread slices. Season both sides generously with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the patties: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until browned and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the secret sauce: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish. Mix until smooth and well blended. Set aside.
- Prepare the bread: Clean the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
- Assemble the melts: Place 3 slices of bread buttered-side down in the skillet. Top each with 2 slices of provolone cheese, one cooked patty, and 2 slices of cheddar cheese.
- Add the sauce: Spread a layer of the secret sauce on the unbuttered side of the remaining bread slices, then place them on top (sauce side down).
- Grill to perfection: Toast the sandwiches until golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3–4 minutes per side. Press lightly with a spatula for an even crust.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice in half, serve hot, and don’t forget to drizzle a bit more secret sauce on the side for dipping!
⏱️ Time & Serving
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 3 patty melts
- Calories: ~550 kcal per serving
✨ Tip: For an extra indulgent twist, caramelize onions in butter and layer them between the cheese and the patty. It adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce.