Patty Meltz

Patty Meltz
serves 4


10 slices hearty rye sandwich bread
2 Tbl whole milk
3/4 tsp onion powder
1 1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 1/2 lbs 85% lean ground beef
3 Tbl unsalted butter
2 onions, halved and sliced thin
2 cups shredded Swiss cheese


Tear 2 slices of bread in 1/2 inch pieces.  Using potato masher, mash torn bread, milk, onion powder, 3/4 tsp salt, and pepper until smooth.  Add beef and gently knead until well combined.  Divide meat into 4 equal portions and shape into oval patties.  Melt 1 Tbl butter in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.  Cook 2 patties until well browned on first side, 5 minutes.  Transfer to plate, browned-side up, and repeat process with remaining two patties.  Pour off all but 1 tsp fat from pan.  Add onions and 1/2 tsp salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes.  Place patties, browned-side up, on top of onions along with accumulated juices from plate.  Reduce heat to medium and cook, shaking pan occasionally until onions are tender and burgers are cooked thru, about 5 minutes.  Divide 1 cup cheese between 4 slices of bread.  Top with patties, onion, remaining cheese, and remaining bread.  Melt remaining Tbl butter in pan over medium heat.  Cook sandwiches on both sides till golden brown and cheese has melted.