These French Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! With juicy beef, melted cheese, and sweet caramelized onions, they’re full of flavor.
I love how the onions add a delightful sweetness that makes each bite special. Pair these with some crispy fries, and you have a meal that feels like a treat any day! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use an 80/20 blend for its balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10 beef, or try ground turkey or chicken. Just remember, they may be less juicy.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth. If you don’t have it, a bit of soy sauce can work, or use liquid aminos for a gluten-free option.
Swiss Cheese: Classic for French onion flavors, but feel free to swap in provolone or cheddar if you prefer. They’ll melt beautifully too!
Onions: Yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing, bringing out sweetness. Sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, can also be used for a milder taste.
Brioche Buns: These are soft and buttery, a perfect match. For a whole-grain option, use whole wheat or any sturdy hamburger bun. Gluten-free buns work well too!
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can be a game-changer for flavor! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get it right:
- Start with a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter with olive oil.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat them evenly.
- Cook low and slow, stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes, until they’re deep golden.
- If they start to stick, add a splash of beef broth or water to deglaze the pan and lift those flavorful bits up.
Patience is key; the slower you cook them, the sweeter and more flavorful they’ll become!
How to Make French Onion Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 4 brioche burger buns
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Beef broth (or French onion soup) for drizzling (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation and 30 minutes of cooking, giving you a total time of about 45 minutes. You’ll be mixing, sautéing, grilling, and toasting to create a perfect meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
In a mixing bowl, start by combining the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is combined. Then, divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help keep them flat while cooking. This is a little trick to prevent them from puffing up!
2. Cook the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. When it’s hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them by stirring occasionally for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and caramelized. If the onions begin to stick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of beef broth or some water to deglaze the pan, enhancing that lovely flavor!
3. Grill the Burgers:
While the onions are caramelizing, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they reach your preferred doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty and cover it to let the cheese melt beautifully.
4. Toast the Buns:
Once the burgers are cooking, toast the brioche buns on the grill or in a skillet until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds a nice touch of flavor!
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Start with the bottom half of each toasted brioche bun and place a cheesy burger patty on top. Pile on some of those delicious caramelized onions and, if you like, drizzle a bit of beef broth or French onion soup on top for extra flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, place the top bun on the burger. If you’re using fresh thyme, sprinkle some on as a lovely garnish. Serve your French onion burgers immediately and enjoy every single bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that it has less fat than ground beef, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil or another fat source to keep the burgers juicy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these burgers gluten-free, simply use gluten-free brioche buns or any other gluten-free burger bun. Additionally, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. You can also substitute with tamari sauce for a similar flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to create steam and prevent drying out. For the best taste, you can re-toast the buns separately.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just warm them slightly on the stovetop before using them to top your burgers for a deliciously savory flair.
