Ultimate Smashing Patty Melts with Secret Caramelized Onion Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion (finely sliced, 2 cups)
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Kosher salt (to taste)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 8 slices rye bread
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 8 oz Swiss cheese (sliced)

Preparation

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and caramelize for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until deeply browned. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Melt 2 tbsp butter in the skillet.

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal patties, slightly wider than the bread slices.

Cook patties in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Set aside.

Assemble the melts: Wipe excess grease from the skillet and melt 2 tbsp butter. Place 4 rye bread slices butter-side down. Top each with a patty, Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, and another cheese slice. Cover with remaining buttered bread (butter-side up).

Cook for 2-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden and melted.

Cut melts diagonally and serve immediately. Enjoy this juicy, flavorful patty melt with a secret caramelized onion sauce!