Classic Patty Melt Sandwich (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Sandwich Components

01 - 6 slices rye bread
02 - 6 tablespoons butter, softened

→ Meat Patty

03 - 1 pound ground beef
04 - 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon onion powder

→ Sauce

07 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
08 - 2 tablespoons ketchup
09 - 1 tablespoon real bacon bits
10 - 1 teaspoon sweet relish
11 - 1 teaspoon white sugar

→ Cheese

12 - 6 slices cheddar cheese
13 - 6 slices Provolone cheese

# Instructions:

01 - Thoroughly butter one side of each slice of bread and set aside.
02 - Combine the ground beef, ground black pepper, sea salt, and onion powder in a bowl. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed.
03 - Shape the mixture into three separate patties to match the shape of the bread.
04 - Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the center is uniformly brown with no pink remaining.
05 - Use a digital thermometer to ensure the patties have an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
06 - Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, bacon bits, sweet relish, and white sugar in a small bowl until well-blended, then set aside.
07 - Heat a second skillet over medium-low heat. Place a slice of bread butter-side down, layer with two slices of cheddar cheese, a cooked patty, and two slices of Provolone cheese. Spread the sauce on the unbuttered side of the second bread slice, then place that slice sauce-side down on top of the cheese.
08 - Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is lightly toasted.
09 - Repeat the process for the remaining sandwiches. Serve immediately and enjoy.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the butter is soft for easier spreading on the bread.