French Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! They’re topped with caramelized onions and melty cheese, bringing tons of flavor in every bite.
These burgers are so juicy and satisfying, they might just become your new favorite! I love serving them with crispy fries—yum! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10, but be aware it might be a bit drier. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter burger.
Onions: A large onion is key for caramelization. Yellow onions are my favorite here due to their sweet flavor, but you can use white or even red onions for a different taste. Just note that red onions will give a more vibrant color!
Gruyère Cheese: Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor, but if it’s hard to find, Swiss cheese is a perfect substitute. You could also try provolone for a milder taste or cheddar for a sharper twist.
Brioche Buns: Brioche buns offer a soft and slightly sweet base. If you want a healthier option, consider whole wheat or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can seem tricky, but it’s all about patience. This process brings out the deep, rich flavors that elevate your burgers. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by heating butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted.
- Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. The salt helps draw out moisture from the onions.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Once caramelized, stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes to marry the flavors!
Don’t rush this step; the low and slow technique is essential for the sweetness to develop.
Create Delicious French Onion Burgers!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 4 slices Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Optional: additional caramelized onions for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 30 minutes caramelizing the onions and cooking the burgers, plus a few minutes for assembly. This hearty meal will make you feel like a gourmet chef in your own kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly and stir occasionally until the onions turn caramelized and golden brown, which will take about 25-30 minutes. Once they’re beautifully browned, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. Afterward, remove it from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
While your onions are caramelizing, take the ground beef and form it into four equally sized burger patties. Make sure to season both sides of each patty with a good sprinkle of salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Now it’s time to cook the burgers! Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned burger patties onto the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how well done you like them. Aim for medium doneness for the best flavor!
4. Add Cheese:
In the final minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyère cheese on each burger patty and cover the skillet or grill to help the cheese melt deliciously.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
If you’d like, toast the brioche buns lightly. On the bottom half of each bun, place a cheeseburger patty. Next, add a generous handful of the caramelized onions on top, and then cover it with the top half of the bun. Yum!
6. Serve:
Serve your French onion burgers immediately with your favorite sides. Enjoy the amazing combination of rich French onion flavors and juicy burgers. If you want to get fancy, you can sprinkle on some extra thyme or add a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for extra flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, but keep in mind that they may produce a drier burger. To keep them juicy, consider adding a little olive oil or breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. Season well to enhance the flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you can, separate the patties from the buns and toppings to keep things fresh. Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can make the caramelized onions a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to use, heat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through—this will refresh their flavor!
What Bread Alternatives Can I Use for the Buns?
If you’re looking for alternatives to brioche buns, you can use whole grain, pretzel, or sourdough buns for a different flavor and texture. For a lower-carb option, consider using lettuce wraps instead of buns—just be mindful that they won’t hold up as well as bread!
