The Patty Melt from Perkins features a juicy, seasoned beef patty topped with melted Swiss cheese and caramelized onions, all nestled between slices of toasted rye bread, delivering a savory and satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Sauté pan or skillet
- Cheese slicer (optional)
- Plate
- Bread knife
- Butter spreader
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for bread)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- 8 slices rye bread
Use fresh, high-quality ground beef with an appropriate fat content to ensure the patty remains juicy and flavorful when cooked. Caramelized onions require patience and low heat to develop their sweetness without burning, enhancing the overall taste of your sandwich. Choose authentic Swiss cheese slices for the classic melt and creamy texture that complements the beef and onions perfectly. Opt for fresh rye bread for toasting, as its robust flavor and sturdy texture hold the sandwich together well. Your copycat Patty Melt from Perkins will benefit greatly from these carefully selected ingredients to closely match the original's savory and satisfying flavor profile.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium-high heat.
- Slice onion thinly on cutting board.
- Heat sauté pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter to pan and melt.
- Add sliced onions to pan.
- Cook onions, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 15–20 minutes.
- Form ground beef into 4 equal patties.
- Season patties with salt and black pepper.
- Cook patties on grill or griddle 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Place two slices of Swiss cheese on each patty during final minute to melt.
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Place bread, buttered side down, on grill or griddle.
- Toast bread until golden brown.
- Place patty with cheese on one toasted bread slice.
- Top patty with caramelized onions.
- Add another slice of toasted bread on top, buttered side out.
- Remove from grill, and cut diagonally with bread knife.
- Serve hot on a plate.
Substitution
The Patty Melt from Perkins copycat menu combines seasoned ground beef, Swiss cheese, and caramelized onions between buttery toasted rye bread for an iconic diner experience. If Swiss cheese is unavailable, provolone or Gruyere are excellent substitutes that maintain a creamy, melty texture. Using a griddle ensures even browning of the rye bread and better caramelization of onions, but a skillet can work well too if a griddle isn't available. When forming patties, avoid pressing them too thin to retain juiciness during cooking, ensuring your sandwich stays moist. Your caramelized onions can be prepped ahead and kept refrigerated to save time on busy cooking days.
Tips
Make sure to cook the caramelized onions slowly over medium heat to develop their natural sweetness without burning. When forming your beef patties, avoid pressing them too hard to maintain juiciness during grilling. Butter the rye bread generously but evenly to achieve a perfect golden crisp without sogginess. Always place the cheese on the patties during the last minute of cooking to ensure it melts just right without overcooking the meat.
Nutritions
Your Patty Melt provides a hearty source of protein from the 1 lb of ground beef used to make four juicy patties, essential for muscle repair and energy. Swiss cheese contributes calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health, while caramelized onions add fiber and antioxidants that boost digestion and immunity. The rye bread offers complex carbohydrates and additional fiber, helping to maintain steady blood sugar levels. Butter adds fat content, enhancing flavor and satiety, but should be consumed mindfully if you're watching calorie intake.
Storage
Store leftover Patty Melt in an airtight container or wrap tightly in aluminum foil to maintain freshness. Keep it refrigerated at or below 40degF (4degC) and consume within 3 days for optimal taste. To reheat, use a grill or griddle to restore texture, heating each side until warmed through and cheese is melted.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile and leaner options. Swap Swiss cheese with Gruyere or sharp cheddar to add a stronger, nuttier taste to your patty melt. Instead of caramelizing onions, try sauteing mushrooms with garlic for an earthy, umami twist. Toast the rye bread in a pan with garlic butter for extra richness and aroma on each bite.
Allergies
The Patty Melt from Perkins contains common allergens such as dairy from Swiss cheese and butter, and gluten from the rye bread. If you have a beef allergy, sensitivity to onions, or are lactose intolerant, consuming this dish could trigger adverse reactions. Your awareness of these ingredients is crucial to avoid potential allergic responses.
Why this recipe?
The Patty Melt from Perkins restaurant captivates customers with its juicy, flavorful beef patty nestled between perfectly toasted rye bread, melted Swiss cheese, and caramelized onions, delivering a rich and satisfying taste experience. The combination of savory ingredients and the crispy texture creates a comforting classic that is both hearty and crave-worthy. You can recreate this iconic sandwich at home to enjoy the same indulgent flavors, making it a rewarding and delicious copycat project. Fresh ingredients and attention to detail in grilling and layering contribute to an authentic Patty Melt that rivals the original.