These French Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger. They come topped with rich caramelized onions and gooey melted cheese for a mouth-watering treat!
I can’t resist adding extra onions on mine; they’re just too good! They make the burger so juicy and flavorful. Pair it with fries or a salad, and you’ve got a real winner! 🍔✨
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can work, though they may need additional seasoning to boost flavor.
Onions: Large yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re out of yellow onions, try white or sweet onions for a similar result.
Swiss Cheese: This adds a creamy texture and a nutty flavor. If you’re not a fan of Swiss, you can substitute with Gruyère or provolone cheese, which melt just as beautifully.
Brioche Buns: Brioche buns are soft and buttery, making them ideal for burgers. If you don’t have brioche, consider using hamburger buns, pretzel buns, or even ciabatta for a sturdy option.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the burgers. If you want a vegetarian option, use soy sauce or tamari for a similar umami flavor.
How Do I Caramelize Onions to Perfection?
Caramelizing onions is crucial for the rich flavor in these burgers. It can take some time, but don’t rush it! Here’s how:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter. Wait until the butter melts completely.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and a sprinkle of salt. This helps draw out moisture.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they’re browning too fast, lower the heat.
- For extra sweetness, sprinkle in some sugar halfway through. When they’re golden and soft, add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and cook for 5 more minutes.
This method draws out the natural sugars, resulting in sweet, beautifully caramelized onions that elevate your burger!
How to Make French Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for caramelizing onions)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded or sliced
- Additional French onion dip or aioli (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 20-25 minutes caramelizing the onions, while you prepare and cook the burger patties during that time. It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic burger!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once it’s melted, add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, allowing them to become caramelized and golden brown. If you want, you can sprinkle some sugar halfway through to help with caramelization. After the onions are nice and brown, pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes until the liquid reduces a bit. Then, remove it from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
While the onions are cooking, take the ground beef and form it into 4 equal patties. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly. Season both sides well with salt and pepper. They’re ready to hit the grill!
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Carefully flip the burgers, and then top each one with the caramelized onions and a slice of Swiss cheese. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and your burger is cooked to your liking.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers finish cooking, toast the brioche buns in the same skillet or on the grill. Let them toast until they’re golden brown and delicious.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Take your toasted buns and spread any additional French onion dip or aioli on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cheese-topped burger on each bun, add a bit more caramelized onions on top, and finish with the top half of the bun.
6. Serve:
Your French Onion Burgers are now ready! If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme and enjoy with your favorite sides. Happy eating!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so consider adding a bit more fat (like olive oil) to the skillet when cooking to help keep the burgers moist. Also, be sure to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute. If you want a deeper flavor, a splash of red wine or a mix of water and soy sauce can also work in a pinch!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers and toppings separately in airtight containers. The patties will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, but letting them come to room temperature first will ensure they heat more evenly.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance. Just let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use them, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat before topping your burgers.
