Ingredients

  • For the Patty Melt Dog:
    • 4 all-beef hot dogs
    • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
    • 4 hot dog buns
    • 8 slices Swiss cheese
    • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tsp salt, divided
    • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • For the Thousand Island Dressing:
    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tbsp ketchup
    • 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
    • 1 tsp white vinegar
    • 1/2 tsp sugar
    • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Large skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Tongs
  • Knife and cutting board

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions:
    • Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
    • Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized.
    • Stir in Worcestershire sauce and cook for 1 more minute. Set aside, keeping warm.
  2. Prepare the Thousand Island Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
    • Mix until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
  3. Form the Beef Patties:
    • Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each).
    • Shape each portion into a thin, rectangular patty roughly the size and shape of a hot dog to fit in the bun.
    • Season both sides of each patty with 1/2 tsp salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  4. Cook the Patties and Hot Dogs:
    • Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
    • Add the beef patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.
    • While patties cook, score the hot dogs lightly with a knife (optional, for extra flavor) and place them on the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through and slightly charred.
  5. Assemble the Patty Melt Dogs:
    • Toast the hot dog buns lightly on the skillet or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes.
    • Place a cooked beef patty in each bun, followed by a hot dog on top.
    • Add a spoonful of caramelized onions over the hot dog.
    • Place 2 slices of Swiss cheese on top of each assembly.
    • Return the assembled dogs to the skillet (on low heat) or place under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    • Drizzle each Patty Melt Dog with Thousand Island dressing or serve it on the side for dipping.
    • Serve immediately with fries, coleslaw, or your favorite side.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with crispy French fries, a pickle spear, or a fresh green salad.
  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce on top.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fat: 45g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sodium: 1200mg

Tips

  • For a smokier flavor, grill the hot dogs and patties instead of using a skillet.
  • Substitute rye bread slices for hot dog buns for a more traditional patty melt vibe.
  • Make the caramelized onions and dressing ahead of time to save prep time.