Patty Melt

Directions

1. 1
   Place the meat on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet and, using your hands, break into small pieces and combine evenly.
2. 2
   Arrange in a single layer and season the meat with salt and pepper.
3. 3
   Divide the meat into 6 portions (about 4 ounces each).
4. 4
   Using your hands, form each portion into a ball-shape by gently tossing it from one hand to the other.
5. 5
   Form each portion into a thin patty (about 1/4-inch).
6. 6
   Each patty should be somewhat larger than a slice of the bread (the patty will shrink to the size of the bread when cooked).
7. 7
   Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-heat.
8. 8
   Add the onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 7 minutes.
9. 9
   Transfer the onion to a bowl.
10. 10
    Wipe out the skillet, return to the heat, and heat 1 tablespoon oil.
11. 11
    Add 2 patties and saute, turning once, until well browned and cooked to medium, about 1 minute per side.
12. 12
    Transfer to a plate and repeat with the remaining oil and patties.
13. 13
    Arrange 1/6 of the onion over 1 bread slice.
14. 14
    Place 1 cheese slice over the onion and top with a patty.
15. 15
    Top the patty with a slice of cheese and cover with a bread slice.
16. 16
    Spread about 2 teaspoons of butter over the outside of each slice.
17. 17
    Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 6 sandwiches.
18. 18
    Heat the cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
19. 19
    Add 2 sandwiches and cook, turning once, until lightly browned and the cheese has melted, about 5 minutes per side.
20. 20
    Transfer to a cutting board and repeat with the remaining 4 sandwiches.
21. 21
    Cut sandwiches in half crosswise and serve.