Classic Patty Melt

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 8 slices of rye or sourdough bread
– 8 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
– Butter for spreading on bread

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Onions:**
– In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. **Make the Patties:**
– Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into thin patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

3. **Cook the Patties:**
– In the same skillet, cook the patties over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.

4. **Assemble the Sandwiches:**
– Butter one side of each slice of bread. On the unbuttered side, layer a slice of cheese, a beef patty, some caramelized onions, another slice of cheese, and top with another slice of bread, buttered side out. Repeat for all sandwiches.

5. **Grill the Sandwiches:**
– Heat the skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.

6. **Serve:**
– Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool slightly. Cut in half and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade patty melt with your favorite condiments or a side of fries!