Instructions:
- Form Patties:
Shape the ground beef into 3 flattened patties that are roughly the same size as your bread slices. Season both sides with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. - Cook Patties:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until they are browned on both sides and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove from the skillet and set aside. - Make the Secret Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped bacon, ketchup, sugar, and relish. Stir until well mixed. - Prepare the Skillet:
Wipe the skillet clean, reduce the heat to medium, and prepare to assemble the sandwiches. - Butter the Bread:
Spread butter on one side of each slice of rye bread. - Assemble the Patty Melts:
Place 3 slices of rye bread, butter-side down, in the skillet. On each slice of bread, place 2 slices of provolone cheese, followed by a cooked beef patty, and 2 slices of cheddar cheese. - Add the Secret Sauce:
Spread a thin layer of the secret sauce on the non-buttered side of the remaining 3 slices of bread. Place these slices sauce-side down on top of the sandwiches in the skillet. - Cook Until Melted and Toasted:
Cook until the bottom of the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted (about 3-4 minutes). Carefully flip the sandwiches and toast the other side until golden brown and crispy. - Serve:
Once the patty melts are well-toasted and the cheese is gooey and melted, remove from the skillet. Slice in half and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious, gooey Patty Melts with that perfect secret sauce!