Happy almost Chrismo everybody! I hope everyone is able to get some rest and recharge after this crazy season.

I’ve had a pretty rockin’ December so far, especially since my Mom came up last weekend from Michigan to see Bob Seger with me (my late father’s favorite singer). Man, can that guy SANG. Had the best freakin’ time.

We’ve also been busy running around going to Christmas parties, finishing up shopping and just having all around merriment. Loving it.

And I’ve also got my cooking groove back!! WHEW! So check out this latest monster from my dilly-dallying in the kitchen.

Here’s the deal. I was like, “how can I make a patty melt ooey-er and gooey-er?” So I decided to throw on some delicious Thousand Island dressing. Yes, I did.

I’ve always loved getting patty melts out at greasy diners but never really thought to make one at home until I hit that weird stretch where none of my recipes were turning out. I decided to go back to the basics that have never let me down – beef, cheese, sauce + bread – that I know how to do.

So I ended up with this bad boy that I’ve got to say was pretty delish. This will be in our regular rotation, especially on weeknights since it’s crazy easy to whip up.

Happy eating! Woo!

Servings: 4
Cook Time:15 minutes

Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 1/2 tbs ketchup
2 tbs chopped dill pickle
pinch salt + pepper
1 cup sliced onions
1 tbs olive oil
1 lb ground beef
4 slices american cheese
4 slices rye + pumpernickel swirl bread

First, to make the Thousand Island dressing – just mix the mayo with the ketchup, chopped pickles and salt + pepper. Set aside.

Next, get a skillet on medium heat and add the oil and the onions. Cook until tender and lightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.

To make the burgers mix in a tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of fresh cracked pepper to the beef. Form four thin patties, about 1/4 inch thick.

Butter a griddle pan and place over medium-high heat. Flop the bread on the griddle plan and toast on both sides until golden.

Finally, set a cast iron skillet on medium-high heat. Place the burgers in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on one side, flip, top with a slice of cheese and cook for another 2 minutes until cheese is melty.

Place the burger on the toasted bread and top with the onions and a good dollop of Thousand Island dressing.

Then devour. You’ll want two! 😀