I grew up in Iowa and my dad used to take me to get these all the time! I have missed them so!
Ultimate Patty Melt with Bacon-Relish Secret Sauce
This recipe transforms a classic patty melt into a crave-worthy meal by adding a rich, tangy secret sauce made with bacon and relish. Layered with juicy seasoned beef, melted cheese, and golden toasted rye bread, this sandwich is a comforting, indulgent favorite that’s easy to make and impossible to forget.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Divided into 3 patties |
| Onion powder | To taste | For seasoning patties |
| Garlic powder | To taste | For seasoning patties |
| Salt | To taste | For seasoning patties |
| Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground recommended |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Base for secret sauce |
| Cooked bacon | 2 tablespoons, finely chopped | Adds smoky flavor to secret sauce |
| Ketchup | 1 tablespoon | Sweet and tangy element in secret sauce |
| Granulated sugar | 1 teaspoon | Balances acidity in the sauce |
| Sweet pickle relish | 1 tablespoon | Adds tang and crunch to secret sauce |
| Rye bread slices | 6 slices | Buttered on one side |
| Butter | As needed | For toasting bread |
| Swiss or American cheese | 6 slices (2 per sandwich) | Melts perfectly in patty melts |
Instructions
- Form the Patties
Divide the ground beef into 3 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty about the same size and shape as your rye bread slices. Avoid over-handling the meat to keep the texture tender. - Season the Patties
Generously season both sides of each patty with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning builds the base flavor of your sandwich. - Cook the Patties
Heat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until browned and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer them to a plate and loosely cover with foil to keep warm. - Prepare the Secret Sauce
While the patties cook, mix the mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish in a small bowl until fully combined. Set the sauce aside. It’s the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy. - Wipe and Reheat the Skillet
Carefully wipe out the skillet with a paper towel to remove excess grease. Lower the heat to medium to prevent burning the bread during toasting. - Assemble the Sandwiches
Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Lay three slices butter-side down in the skillet. On each slice, layer one slice of cheese, one cooked beef patty, a generous spoonful of the secret sauce, another slice of cheese, and top with the second slice of rye bread, butter-side up. - Grill the Patty Melts
Cook each sandwich for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. Flip carefully and repeat on the other side. - Serve and Enjoy
Let the sandwiches rest for a minute before slicing in half. Serve warm with extra sauce on the side, a crisp dill pickle, fries, or chips for the ultimate diner-style meal.
This patty melt is everything you want in comfort food—crispy on the outside, melty and flavorful on the inside, with a sauce that takes it all over the top. Whether for a weekend lunch or a weeknight treat, this sandwich hits every note just right.