Classic Patty Melt Sandwich (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 6 slices rye bread
02 - 6 tablespoons butter, softened
03 - 1 pound ground beef
04 - 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 6 slices cheddar cheese
08 - 6 slices Provolone cheese

→ Sauce Ingredients

09 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
10 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
11 - 1 tablespoon real bacon bits
12 - 1 teaspoon sweet relish
13 - 1 teaspoon white sugar

# Instructions:

01 - Thoroughly butter one side of each slice of bread. Set aside.
02 - Combine the ground beef, pepper, salt, and onion powder in a bowl and mix until the spices are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into three separate patties to match the shape of the bread.
03 - Preheat a nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Cook each patty for approximately 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Reduce heat to low and cook for approximately 5 more minutes until the patties are uniformly brown with no pink remaining. Verify the internal temperature reaches 71°C (160°F) using a digital thermometer.
04 - Mix the mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, relish, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir until well blended, then set aside.
05 - Heat a second skillet on medium-low heat and place one slice of bread (butter-side down) in the skillet. Top with two slices of cheddar cheese, one beef patty, and two slices of Provolone cheese. Spread the sauce over the unbuttered side of a second bread slice and place it sauce-side down on top of the cheese.
06 - Cook each sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side or until the bread is lightly toasted and the cheese is melted. Repeat this process for all sandwiches.
07 - Remove sandwiches from heat and serve immediately. Enjoy!