1️⃣ Caramelize the Onions
Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Add onions, cook 10-12 mins, stirring occasionally, until golden and soft.
2️⃣ Cook the Patties
Mix beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, form into 2 oval patties (to match bread shape).
Cook in the same skillet 3-4 mins per side for medium.
3️⃣ Assemble & Grill
Spread Thousand Island on 2 bread slices.
Layer: cheese → patty → onions → cheese → bread.
Butter the outer sides of each sandwich.
Grill in skillet over medium heat 2-3 mins per side until golden and cheese melts.
4️⃣ Slice & Serve!
Cut diagonally, serve with pickles and extra dressing.
🔥 Pro Tips
🔹 Press lightly – Helps bread crisp evenly.
🔹 Low and slow onions – For maximum sweetness.
🔹 Use a griddle – For even browning.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
With fries or onion rings – Classic diner duo
Side of coleslaw – For crunch and tang
Pair with a milkshake – Ultimate retro meal
🔄 Delicious Variations
Turkey patty melt – Use ground turkey + provolone
Mushroom-Swiss – Add sautéed mushrooms
Spicy kick – Mix sriracha into the dressing
📦 Storage Tips
Fridge: 2 days (reheat in skillet).
Freeze: Patties only, 1 month.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Diner Sandwich! 🏆
This crispy, melty, beefy masterpiece is impossible to resist—once you try it, you’ll never order takeout again!
