Patty Melt with Secret Sauce

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Step 1: Prepare the Patties

  1. Season the Beef: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until just combined.
  2. Form Patties: Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty, slightly larger than the bread slices to account for shrinkage during cooking.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Cook the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the thinly sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Patties in the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  2. Air Fry: Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Secret Sauce

  1. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Patty Melts

  1. Spread Sauce: Spread a generous amount of the secret sauce on one side of each bread slice.
  2. Layer: Place a slice of Swiss cheese and a slice of cheddar cheese on four of the bread slices. Add a cooked patty on top of the cheese, then top with caramelized onions. Place the remaining bread slices on top, sauce side down, to form sandwiches.

Step 6: Cook the Patty Melts in the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat Again: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray both sides of the sandwiches with olive oil.
  3. Air Fry: Place the sandwiches in the air fryer basket. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Slice and Serve: Remove the patty melts from the air fryer, let them cool slightly, then slice in half and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Patty Melts

  1. Bread Choice: Rye bread is traditional for patty melts, but feel free to use your favorite type of bread.
  2. Cheese Variety: Mix and match cheeses to your liking. Provolone or pepper jack can add a different flavor twist.
  3. Secret Sauce: Make the sauce ahead of time and let it sit in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Additions

  1. Add Bacon: Add crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
  2. Spicy Kick: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the secret sauce for a spicy kick.
  3. Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based patty and cheese for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

The air fryer patty melt with secret sauce is a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The combination of crispy bread, juicy patty, melted cheese, caramelized onions, and the secret sauce makes for an irresistible sandwich. Enjoy this classic comfort food with a modern twist, and happy cooking!

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