Animal Style Patty Melt

When you think of diner classics, the patty melt is at the top of the list. Juicy patty, caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese all work together. Here is the classic patty melt with an “animal style” twist, where I’m cooking the patties in mustard, serving with animal-style sauce, and caramelized onions.

Before You Start:

Caramelized onions are standard to a patty melt. They add sweetness, depth, and richness, but add to the bold flavors of a patty melt. Here are some tips:

1. Slice the onions: Aim for thin, even slices. Use a mandolin to get this evenly sliced.
2. Cook them low and slow: Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-30 minutes. Add water before the onions burn, and it will allow the onions to continue cooking down and caramelize properly.

One of the elements of a patty melt is a seared beef patty with mustard. It gives the patty a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese and onions.

1. Form the patties: Season your beef with salt and pepper, then form into thin patties — about the size of your bread.
2. Sear with mustard: Once you have your patties on the hot griddle or skillet, brush one side with mustard before flipping. This creates a crispy, tangy crust.
3. Melt the cheese: After you flip the patties, immediately place a slice of Swiss cheese on top. Let it melt into the meat as the other side cooks.

The Animal Style sauce is the glue that holds this beauty together. It’s a mix of all your favorite hot dog condiments, but somehow it becomes more than the sum of its parts. Here’s how to make it:

• 2 tablespoons mayo
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish

Putting it All Together

Now for the fun part — assembling your patty melt.

1. Butter your bread: Grab two slices of your favorite bread and butter them on the outside.
2. Assemble the layers: Start with one slice of bread (butter side down). Spread some animal style sauce on the inside, add your mustard-crusted patty with melted Swiss cheese, pile on the caramelized onions, drizzle more sauce on top, and finish with the second slice of bread (butter side up).
3. Grill to golden perfection: Heat your skillet over medium heat and toast the sandwich on both sides until golden brown and crispy.