Patty Melt on Garlic Herb Toasted Sourdough Recipe
Introduction
The patty melt is a classic American sandwich that combines a juicy beef patty with melted cheddar cheese and sweet caramelized onions. This version elevates the flavors by using garlic herb butter spread on toasted sourdough, creating a crispy, flavorful exterior. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or casual dinner.

Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the sliced onions until they are caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Mix gently to incorporate.
- Step 3: Form the beef mixture into patties that fit the size of your bread slices. Cook the patties in the same skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Step 4: While the patties cook, mix the remaining garlic with the butter and spread this garlic herb butter on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- Step 5: When the patties are nearly done, place a slice of shredded cheddar on each patty and let it melt slightly in the skillet.
- Step 6: In another skillet or pan, toast the sourdough slices, buttered side down, over medium heat until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Assemble the patty melts by placing a cheese-topped beef patty on one slice of toasted sourdough, adding the caramelized onions on top, then covering with another slice of toasted bread, buttered side out.
- Step 8: Serve the patty melts hot and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture before forming patties.
- Try swapping the cheddar for Swiss or provolone cheese for a different twist.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter garlic butter spread.
- To make it vegetarian, substitute the beef with a grilled portobello mushroom or a plant-based patty.
Storage
Store any leftover patty melts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the bread’s crispness, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare the caramelized onions ahead of time?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Simply reheat them gently before assembling your patty melts.
What type of sourdough bread works best for this recipe?
A sturdy, rustic sourdough with a good crust holds up well to the sandwich filling and toasting, ensuring the patty melt stays crispy and not soggy.
PrintPatty Melt on Garlic Herb Toasted Sourdough Recipe
This Patty Melt on Garlic Herb Toasted Sourdough features juicy, seasoned ground beef patties topped with melted cheddar cheese and sweet caramelized onions, sandwiched between slices of buttery garlic herb sourdough bread. Perfectly toasted on the stovetop, this classic comfort sandwich combines rich flavors and a satisfying crunch for a delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Patty Melt
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For the Garlic Herb Toasted Sourdough
- 4 slices of sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or basil)
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Beef Patties: In a bowl, combine ground beef with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Mix gently until just combined and form into evenly sized patties.
- Cook Patties: Using the same skillet used for the onions, cook the beef patties over medium heat. Brown each side thoroughly and cook until the patties are cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on thickness.
- Make Garlic Herb Butter: Mix the remaining minced garlic with softened butter and dried herbs. Spread this mixture evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough bread.
- Melt Cheese on Patties: Once patties are cooked, place a slice of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each patty and allow it to melt, covering the skillet with a lid if needed to help the cheese melt evenly.
- Toast Bread: In a separate skillet, place the sourdough slices buttered side down and toast over medium heat until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble Patty Melt: Place each cheesy beef patty onto a slice of toasted sourdough (non-buttered side up). Top with generous caramelized onions, then cover with the second slice of toasted sourdough, buttered side down.
- Serve: Serve the assembled patty melts hot, slicing in half if desired, and enjoy the melty, savory flavors.
Notes
- Use a good quality sourdough bread for the best texture and flavor.
- Caramelizing onions can take some time but it’s key for sweet flavor; do not rush the process.
- For extra richness, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef mixture.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a lighter version, but butter provides better flavor and browning.
- This recipe serves well with pickles or a side of crispy fries.
Keywords: Patty Melt, Garlic Herb Sourdough, Caramelized Onions, Cheddar Cheese Sandwich, Comfort Food

