Patty Melt Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it captures the flavors of a diner-style patty melt but makes it easy to feed a family or a crowd. Instead of cooking individual sandwiches, I just layer everything in a casserole dish and bake it. I also love how customizable it is I can swap the bread, cheese, or even the sauce to fit my mood.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds ground beef, I used 93% lean
1 ½ Tablespoons steak seasoning
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 onion, medium, thinly sliced
12 slices bread, I used Artisan, but rye is traditional
¼ cup butter
18 slices Swiss cheese
¼-½ cup thousand island dressing

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, I brown the ground beef with the steak seasoning and Worcestershire sauce, cooking until fully done. I drain any excess grease.
3. In another skillet, I melt a little butter and cook the sliced onions slowly over medium-low heat until caramelized and golden brown.
4. I lightly butter the bread slices on one side.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, I start with a layer of bread (butter side down).
6. I spread half of the beef mixture over the bread, then add a layer of caramelized onions, a few slices of Swiss cheese, and a drizzle of thousand island dressing.
7. I repeat the layers with the remaining beef, onions, cheese, and dressing.
8. I finish with a final layer of bread on top, butter side up, and cover with the remaining Swiss cheese.
9. I bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden.
10. I let it cool slightly before slicing into squares and serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings. It takes around 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, so I can have it ready in about 50 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I use rye bread for a more traditional patty melt flavor, but sourdough or Texas toast also works well. I’ve swapped Swiss cheese for provolone or cheddar when I want a different taste. If I’m craving extra sauce, I serve more thousand island dressing on the side for dipping. For a spicy twist, I add pickled jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through, which helps keep the bread from getting too soggy. For quicker reheating, I use the microwave, though the bread won’t be as crisp. This casserole can also be frozen before baking when ready, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it up to a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until baking.

What bread works best for this recipe?

I like Artisan bread for sturdiness, but rye is traditional and sourdough is also great.

Can I use a different cheese instead of Swiss?

Yes, provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack all melt beautifully in this casserole.

How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

I make sure to butter the bread well and bake uncovered so the top crisps up.

Can I make this casserole without the thousand island dressing?

Yes, I sometimes leave it out or replace it with Russian dressing or mayonnaise.

Can I add more toppings?

Yes, I like adding pickles, sautéed mushrooms.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, I freeze it unbaked, wrapped tightly, then thaw and bake when needed.

How do I reheat leftovers?

I prefer the oven for reheating so the bread stays crispy, but the microwave works for convenience.

Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, I’ve swapped the beef for ground turkey, and it still tastes great.

What sides go well with Patty Melt Casserole?

I usually serve it with fries, a simple salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Patty Melt Casserole is my favorite way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic patty melt without the hassle of making individual sandwiches. I love how the layers of beef, onions, cheese, and bread come together in one cheesy, toasty, satisfying dish. It’s a true comfort meal that always hits the spot.

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