RecipeShare Test Kitchen

Double smash patty melt on brioche with caramelised onions, light cheese and a tangy secret sauce—about 575 kcal and 57g protein per serving. Fakeaway, fast and juicy.
This patty melt keeps the appeal of a diner-style sandwich but trims it into a more practical high-protein meal. Two thin beef patties, a modest amount of cheese, sweet onions, and a sharp sauce give it the feel of a proper indulgent sandwich without relying on oversized portions of bread or sauce.
The main adjustment is not that it tastes “diet” but that the build is more controlled. Lean beef, thinner patties, and measured toppings keep the sandwich hearty while still letting the onions, sauce, and toastiness come through.
The sandwich is savory, oniony, and tangy, with enough richness from cheese and beef to feel satisfying. The sauce adds sweetness and acidity so the melt does not eat heavy from the first bite.
Lean beef keeps the protein high, caramelized onions bring most of the sweetness, and the sauce gives the sandwich its diner-style contrast without needing a huge amount.
Cook the onions first, mix the sauce, then smash and sear the patties in a very hot pan. Assemble the melts and return them to the pan briefly so the bread toasts and the cheese softens fully.
You can cook the onions and mix the sauce ahead, but toast the finished sandwich close to serving time so the bread stays crisp.
Double smash patty melt on brioche with caramelised onions, light cheese and a tangy secret sauce—about 575 kcal and 57g protein per serving. Fakeaway, fast and juicy.

Chill mince 10 minutes so balls hold shape for a cleaner smash.
Use parchment between meat and press to prevent sticking.
Toast buns low–medium; cover briefly to melt cheese without burning.
Flip the assembled melt using a plate if needed to keep layers intact.
Weigh six 100 g meat balls for even cooking and nutrition.
We use affiliate links, which may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Spray a skillet and set over medium heat. Add sliced onion and a pinch of salt; cook 8–10 minutes, stirring, until soft and golden.
Stir in balsamic and sweetener; cook 1–2 minutes until glossy. Set aside.
Mix ketchup, light mayo, mustard, honey, chives and black pepper until smooth. Chill.
Preheat a heavy skillet over medium-high until very hot.
Season the meat balls with salt and pepper. Place two balls in the pan; cover with parchment and smash thin using a press or spatula.
Cook 60–90 seconds, flip, top each with a cheese slice and cook another 45–60 seconds until edges are crisp and cheese melts. Repeat for all 6 patties.
Split buns and spread sauce on both cut sides. Add a slice of cheese to the bottom bun.
Stack two cheesy patties and some onions on each bun; cap with the top.
Return to a clean pan on low–medium. Press gently and toast 1–2 minutes per side until the outside is golden and the cheese is oozing. Use a plate to help flip if needed.
Slice and serve hot.
11/10/2025
Quick Friday fakeaway—brioche toasted perfectly low heat. Will repeat.
11/10/2025
Tip with parchment for smashing = game changer. I added pickles.
11/10/2025
Used regular ketchup and full-fat mayo; still around 600 kcal. Family loved it.
11/10/2025
Made it post-gym—crazy good and super filling. The onions make it!
Create and edit your own recipes, import from most websites, plan your week, and build smart grocery lists.
Import recipes from most websites
Create and edit your own recipes
Plan your week with the Meal Planner
Mark favourites for quick access
Build grocery lists from your meal plan
Tick off pantry items you already have
Serving Size: 1 patty melt
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Add your personal creations and build your own recipe collection.