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INSTRUCTIONS:
- Shape the Patties:
- Begin by dividing the ground beef into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, taking care not to overwork the meat. Season both sides of the patties generously with salt and pepper.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Remove the caramelized onions from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Patties:
- In the same skillet used for the onions, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the hamburger patties to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Top each patty with a slice of cheese during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt over the meat.
- Toast the Bread:
- While the patties are cooking, spread a thin layer of softened butter onto one side of each slice of rye bread. Place the bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean skillet or griddle over medium heat. Toast the bread until it is golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Assemble the Patty Melts:
- To assemble each sandwich, spread a generous amount of Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing onto the untoasted side of four bread slices. Top each slice with a hamburger patty and a portion of caramelized onions. Place a second slice of toasted bread on top, with the buttered side facing out.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice each assembled Patty Melt in half diagonally and serve immediately, accompanied by pickles, lettuce, and tomato slices if desired. Enjoy the classic combination of flavors and textures in every bite of this iconic sandwich.