Patty Melt Cast Iron

Featured in: Everyday Comforts

This dish features seasoned ground beef patties cooked in a cast iron skillet, topped with melted Swiss cheese and sweet caramelized onions. Layered between buttered rye bread slices, it’s cooked until golden and crispy for a perfect balance of textures. Ideal for a comforting, hearty meal with rich flavors and satisfying crispness.

Updated on Fri, 21 Nov 2025 08:16:00 GMT
Image of a sizzling Patty Melt Skillet with melted Swiss and caramelized onions, a classic delight. Save
Image of a sizzling Patty Melt Skillet with melted Swiss and caramelized onions, a classic delight. | butterhollow.com

A classic American comfort dish featuring juicy beef patties, caramelized onions, and melty Swiss cheese, all layered over golden rye bread and cooked in a cast iron skillet for an irresistible crispy finish.

I first made this patty melt skillet on a chilly evening and it immediately became a family favorite comfort food.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: 1 lb 80/20 blend recommended
  • Worcestershire sauce: 1 tsp
  • Garlic powder: 1/2 tsp
  • Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp plus 1/4 tsp for onions
  • Black pepper: 1/4 tsp freshly ground
  • Yellow onions: 2 large thinly sliced
  • Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp for onions plus 4 tbsp softened for bread
  • Rye bread: 8 slices
  • Swiss cheese: 8 slices
  • Mayonnaise: optional 2 tbsp

Instructions

Prepare Patties:
In a mixing bowl combine ground beef Worcestershire sauce garlic powder salt and pepper Divide into 4 equal patties slightly larger than bread slices
Cook Onions:
Heat cast iron skillet over medium heat Add 2 tbsp butter onions and 1/4 tsp salt Cook stirring occasionally until golden and caramelized about 12 to 15 minutes Remove onions and set aside
Cook Patties:
Increase heat to medium high Add beef patties to skillet and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through Remove and set aside
Assemble Sandwiches:
Wipe skillet clean Butter one side of each bread slice Place 4 slices buttered side down in skillet Top each with slice of Swiss cheese beef patty caramelized onions another slice of Swiss cheese and finish with second bread slice buttered side up
Cook Sandwiches:
Cook over medium heat until bread is golden brown and cheese melts about 3 minutes per side Press gently with spatula for even crust
Serve:
Slice each patty melt in half and serve hot
Golden-brown rye bread surrounds the savory Patty Melt Skillet, filled with beef and cheese, ready to eat. Save
Golden-brown rye bread surrounds the savory Patty Melt Skillet, filled with beef and cheese, ready to eat. | butterhollow.com

Every family dinner turns into a happy memory with this hearty skillet meal around the table.

Notes

For extra flavor spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the inside of the bread before assembling Try with cheddar or American cheese for a twist Serve with pickles or French fries for an authentic diner experience

Required Tools

Cast iron skillet Mixing bowl Spatula Knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains Wheat rye bread Milk cheese butter Soy Worcestershire sauce may contain soy Contains Beef Double check all labels for hidden allergens if necessary

Close-up shot shows a juicy Patty Melt Skillet sandwich with oozing cheese, a perfect diner meal. Save
Close-up shot shows a juicy Patty Melt Skillet sandwich with oozing cheese, a perfect diner meal. | butterhollow.com

This patty melt skillet recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser for any occasion.

Kitchen Tips & Answers

What type of bread works best?

Rye bread is ideal for its texture and flavor, providing a sturdy base and a distinct taste that complements the savory beef and cheese.

How do I get the onions perfectly caramelized?

Cook thinly sliced onions slowly over medium heat with butter and a pinch of salt until they turn golden brown and sweet, about 12-15 minutes.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, cheddar or American cheese can be used for a different flavor profile while maintaining a melty texture.

What cooking equipment is recommended?

A cast iron skillet is preferred as it ensures even heat and a crispy finish on the bread and patties.

How can I enhance the flavor of the patties?

Mix Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the ground beef before shaping patties for a more flavorful base.

Patty Melt Cast Iron

Juicy beef and Swiss cheese layered on rye bread with caramelized onions, cooked in cast iron for crisp finish.

Prep duration
20 min
Heat duration
25 min
Complete duration
45 min
Created by Ella Thompson


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Eating preferences None specified

What you'll need

Patties

01 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
02 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
03 1/2 tsp garlic powder
04 1/2 tsp kosher salt
05 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Onions

01 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
02 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 1/4 tsp salt

Assembly

01 8 slices rye bread
02 8 slices Swiss cheese
03 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for bread)
04 Optional: 2 tbsp mayonnaise

Method

Phase 01

Prepare the Patties: Combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Shape into 4 even patties slightly larger than the bread slices.

Phase 02

Caramelize Onions: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, add sliced onions and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized, approximately 12 to 15 minutes. Remove onions and set aside.

Phase 03

Cook Patties: Increase skillet heat to medium-high. Add beef patties and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Phase 04

Assemble Sandwiches: Wipe skillet clean. Butter one side of each bread slice with softened butter. Place 4 slices butter-side down in skillet. Layer each with Swiss cheese, a beef patty, caramelized onions, another slice of Swiss cheese, and top with remaining bread slices butter-side up.

Phase 05

Grill Until Golden: Cook over medium heat until bread is golden and cheese melts, about 3 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even crust development.

Phase 06

Serve: Slice each patty melt in half and serve immediately while hot.

Kitchen tools needed

  • Cast iron skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Always review individual ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains wheat (rye bread), milk (cheese, butter), soy (Worcestershire sauce), and beef.

Nutrient breakdown per portion

Numbers shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 690
  • Fats: 39 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Proteins: 39 g