Quick and Simple Patty Melts

When you think of an old time diner one of the first dishes you think of is a patty melt. A patty melt is the perfect blend of a cheese burger and a grilled cheese. A patty melt is a great sandwich which puts a beef burger, caramelized onions and melted swiss cheese in between two slices of toasted rye bread.  It is not a great meal if you are trying to stay low fat, but everyone needs to cheat meal every once and awhile. Aren't I right?? Check out the recipe below in post.

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Start by caramelizing the onions. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet set over high heat. When the butter starts to bubble, add the onions and let cook for a minute, then begin to stir frequently over high heat for 5 minutes or so, or until the onions get soft

Reduce the heat to medium, and cook, stirring often, for what will seem like a very long time, until the onions are fully melted and dark golden brown, approximately 20-30 minutes. Remove onions, and set them and the skillet aside.

 In a bowl, mix the ground beef, spices and worcestershire sauce until well combine. Portion the beef mixture into 4 equal balls. Make sure to not pack the beef into balls but leave the mixture loose. 

Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet in which you cooked the onions, and place it over medium heat. Add the beef balls to the pan and press them into the pan to have it sear and allow them to cook, without moving, for approximately 2-3 minutes. Use a spatula to turn the patties over, and continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, then remove the patties from the skillet, and allow them to rest. Patties should be cooked slightly pink inside.

Decrease the heat below the skillet to medium, and put four pieces of rye bread into the butter and fat that remains from cooking the patties. Top one side with the slices of cheese and some of the caramelized onions on the second side. Let the bread toast and get golden brown and cheese melt. Add the burger on top of the onions and top with the cheese side.

Using a spatula to press down on the sandwiches. Slice in half and serve.

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