Ultimate Stacked Patty Melt

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  • In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the olive oil or butter over medium-low heat.

  • Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they are soft, translucent, and deeply golden brown. Set the onions aside.

Step 2: Prepare and Cook the Patties

  • In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with the salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Do not overwork the meat.

  • Divide the mixture into 8 small, oval-shaped patties (these should be smaller and flatter than typical burger patties to fit the bread).

  • In the same skillet (wipe it clean first if needed), cook the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side until they are cooked through and have a nice sear. Remove the patties and set them aside.

Step 3: Assemble and Grill the Stack

  • Wipe the skillet clean one last time and reduce the heat to medium.

  • Spread a generous layer of softened butter on one side of each slice of bread.

  • To build the melt: Place one slice of bread (butter-side down) in the skillet.

    • Top with 1 slice of cheese.

    • Add one cooked beef patty.

    • Spoon a generous amount of the caramelized onions over the patty.

    • Top with another slice of cheese.

    • Finish with a second slice of bread (butter-side up).

  • Grilling: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until both sides are a deep golden brown and the cheese is completely melted and gooey. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure good contact.

Step 4: Stack and Serve

  • Carefully remove the finished Patty Melt from the skillet.

  • To create the beautiful stacked presentation shown in the photo, you have two options:

    1. Cut and Stack: Slice the finished melt in half diagonally and stack the two halves on top of another finished melt.

    2. Full Stack: Simply make multiple full melts and stack them onto a cutting board, slightly offset for that dramatic, overflowing look.

  • Serve immediately with a side of dipping sauce and a small side salad or pickles.

 Pro Tips for Diner-Style Perfection

  • Bread Choice: Rye bread is traditional for its distinct savory flavor, but the thick, white bread pictured is often called Texas Toast, and its extra thickness holds up perfectly to the stack.

  • The Cheese Pull: Using two slices of cheese per melt (one above and one below the patty) ensures maximum meltiness and helps hold the sandwich together.

  • Meat Thickness: Keep the patties thin and slightly oblong to match the shape of the bread, which helps them cook faster and fit better.

  • Dipping Sauce: The sauce in the picture appears to be a rich Barbecue Sauce. You can also use Thousand Island dressing or a simple mix of ketchup and mayo (Fry Sauce).

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