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