In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into two equal-sized patties.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced onions. Cook the onions over medium heat until they are caramelized, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
While the onions are cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty. Once the onions are ready, place the patties back in the skillet, cover with a lid, and let the cheese melt for about 2 minutes.
To assemble the patty melts, place a patty with melted cheese on a slice of rye bread, top with caramelized onions, and then place another slice of rye bread on top.
Wipe the skillet clean and add a little more butter. Grill the assembled patty melts in the skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the skillet, slice in half, and serve hot.