Golden, buttery rye bread grilled to perfection, stuffed with juicy beef patties, gooey layers of cheddar and provolone, and finished with a tangy secret sauce. This diner classic is the perfect mash-up of a cheeseburger and grilled cheese!
Ingredients
For the Secret Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tsp relish
- 1 tsp sugar
- Optional: pinch of smoked paprika
For the Patty Melts
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 slices rye bread
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 6 slices cheddar cheese
- 6 slices provolone cheese
- 6 tbsp butter, softened
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Sauce
Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, sugar, and smoked paprika (if using) in a small bowl. Set aside. - Form & Cook the Patties
Shape ground beef into 3 flattened, rectangular patties (to match bread shape).
Season both sides with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until done. Set aside. - Butter the Bread
Wipe the skillet clean. Butter one side of each rye slice generously. - Assemble the Sandwiches
Place 3 bread slices butter-side down in the skillet.
Layer with 2 slices provolone, 1 beef patty, and 2 slices cheddar each.
Spread secret sauce on the un-buttered side of the remaining bread slices. Place them on top, sauce-side down. - Grill & Melt
Cook 3–4 minutes until bread is golden and cheese starts melting.
Flip carefully, then grill another 3–4 minutes until both sides are toasted and gooey. - Serve Hot
Slice in half, let the cheese stretch, and dig in immediately!
Quick Info
- Yields: 3 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Tips & Variations
- Swap rye bread for sourdough if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Add caramelized onions for an extra diner-style touch.
- Try Swiss cheese instead of provolone for a classic twist.
