Turkey Patty Melt

Craving some delicious diner food but don't want to actually go to a diner to get it? Want a healthier twist on a diner classic? Try a Turkey Patty Melt. As I've already established, I love burgers. I love all types of burgers. I happen to think the best type of burger is a cross between a burger and a grilled cheese. I also think that you can make a healthier version of your favorite foods so you can still feed the craving without feeling the guilt. For my patty melt, I opted for lean ground turkey instead of beef. Don't worry- the seasonings I added will give you plenty of flavor. Even I was surprised at how flavorful, tender and juicy this turned out. Try for yourself!

Ingredients:
1 lb. lean ground turkey
1 Large yellow onion, sliced
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 Tablespoon butter
1 Teaspoon onion powder
1 Teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 Teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1/2 Teaspoon kosher salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Sliced rye bread
Parrano cheese, thinly sliced
Spreadable butter (preferably light, but it's your call)

In a saute pan, heat olive oil and butter. Add onions and cook until caramelized, but not burnt. In a large bowl, gently combine turkey and all spices. Be careful not to over mix this or it will result in a tough, dried out burger. Form meat into oblong burgers (to fit the length of the rye). Use your thumb to press a slight well in the center of the patties.


Heat a cast iron skillet on medium high. Once hot, place the burger patties in and cook thoroughly until you see no evidence of pink and it springs back to touch (about 4 mins. or so on each side). Remove burgers to a plate and set aside.

Heat a pat of butter in a saute pan. Spread butter on both sides of your slices of rye. Place a slice of bread in the pan, cover with a slice of parrano, then the burger patty, then top with some caramelized onions, another slice of parrano and then the top slice of bread. Continue to cook in the pan as if making grilled cheese- with the cheese melted and both slices of bread browned. Serve and enjoy!