Classic Patty Melt (High-Protein)
A diner favorite rebuilt to boost protein while keeping the buttery, crispy, cheesy bite.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
Patties
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340 g (12 oz) lean ground beef (90–93% lean)
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½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp garlic powder
Onions
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1 large onion, thinly sliced
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1 tsp olive oil
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Pinch salt
Sauce (high-protein swap)
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½ cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt
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1 tbsp ketchup (no-sugar if preferred)
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1 tsp mustard
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1 tsp pickle relish
Sandwich
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4 slices rye bread
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4 slices Swiss cheese
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2 tsp butter (for toasting)
Instructions
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Caramelize onions
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium. Add onions + pinch salt. Cook 12–15 minutes, stirring, until deep golden and sweet. -
Make patties
Season beef and form 2 thin oval patties (shape to match bread). Cook in a hot skillet 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove. -
Mix sauce
Stir Greek yogurt, ketchup, mustard, and relish. -
Assemble
Butter one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side: cheese → patty → onions → sauce → cheese → bread. -
Grill
Cook sandwiches in skillet over medium until bread is crispy and cheese melts, ~3–4 minutes per side. Press gently with a spatula. -
Rest 1 minute, slice, serve hot.
Nutrition (Per Sandwich)
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Calories: ~520 kcal
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Protein: ~48 g
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Carbs: ~28 g
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Fat: ~24 g
High-Protein Tips
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Use extra-thin patties for better cheese-to-meat ratio.
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Swap rye for high-protein/low-carb bread if desired.
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Add an extra cheese slice for +7 g protein.
