Pin This A classic diner favorite featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melty cheese, all grilled between slices of rye bread in a cast-iron skillet.
This dish brings the nostalgic diner experience right to our home kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor every time.
Ingredients
- For the Onions: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Patties: 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20), 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Sandwiches: 8 slices rye bread, 8 slices Swiss cheese, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions
- Prepare the onions:
- In a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply golden and caramelized, 15 20 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Form the patties:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently and shape into 4 oval patties, slightly larger than the bread slices.
- Cook the patties:
- Wipe out the skillet and increase heat to medium high. Add patties and cook 3 4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Assemble the sandwiches:
- Lay out rye bread slices. On four slices, layer one slice of Swiss cheese, a beef patty, a generous portion of caramelized onions, and another slice of cheese. Top with remaining bread slices.
- Grill the melts:
- Wipe out the skillet and return to medium heat. Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich. Place sandwiches in the skillet (work in batches if needed) and grill 3 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Slice and serve:
- Slice in half and serve hot.
Pin This Our family gathers around the skillet each time, creating new memories with this hearty classic.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a smear of Dijon mustard to the bread before assembling. Substitute Swiss cheese with cheddar or provolone if desired. Serve with pickles or crispy fries for a true diner experience.
Required Tools
Cast iron skillet, Mixing bowl, Spatula, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (butter, cheese), Gluten (rye bread), Beef. Check rye bread for sesame or soy if sensitive. Always verify ingredient labels for allergens.
Pin This This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I caramelize onions perfectly?
Slice onions thin and cook them slowly in butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally until golden and sweet, about 15-20 minutes.
- → What type of beef is best for the patties?
Use ground beef with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy and flavorful patties that hold together well during cooking.
- → Can I substitute the Swiss cheese?
Yes, cheddar or provolone also work well and melt nicely for a rich cheesy layer.
- → How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Spread softened butter on each bread slice before grilling to create a crispy, golden crust that resists sogginess.
- → What skillet should I use to grill them?
A cast-iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution and achieving a crispy, caramelized crust on the sandwiches.