Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Onions

• Cook the Onions:
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt.
  • Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. This slow cooking is key to developing the sweet, rich flavor of the onions.
• Tip: If the onions start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat. Patience is key here!

Step 2: Make the Beef Patties

• Season the Beef:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.
• Form Patties:
  • Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties, about ¾ inch thick. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty—this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
• Cook the Patties:
  • Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add the beef patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium doneness.
  • During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the skillet to melt the cheese.

Step 3: Assemble the Patty Melts

• Prepare the Bread:
  • Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
• Build Your Sandwich:
  • On the unbuttered side of four slices, layer the beef patties with melted cheese, a generous scoop of caramelized onions, and then top with another slice of bread (buttered side out).

Step 4: Grill the Patty Melts

• Heat the Skillet:
  • In the same skillet used for the patties, lower the heat to medium.
• Grill the Sandwiches:
  • Carefully place the assembled patty melts in the skillet. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is ooey-gooey.
• Tip: You might want to cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt more evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

• Once the patties are grilled to perfection, remove them from the skillet and slice them in half if you’d like. Serve with a side of fries, pickles, or your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy your delicious homemade classic patty melt!