French Onion Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger! They are juicy and topped with sweet, caramelized onions and melted cheese, adding a tasty kick.
Honestly, who can resist that combination? I like to serve mine with crispy fries on the side—because more deliciousness is never a bad idea! 🍔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: For the best flavor and juiciness, I use an 80/20 blend. This means 80% lean meat and 20% fat. If you prefer a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that they may require added fat to stay juicy.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you want a different flavor, red onions can be used, but they won’t caramelize quite the same way.
Beef Broth: This adds rich flavor to the onions. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, unsalted beef broth works well. For a vegetarian alternative, vegetable broth can be used, though the flavor will change a bit.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese provides great meltability and flavor. If you can’t find it, Gruyère or provolone are excellent substitutes. For a sharper taste, try cheddar instead!
Brioche Buns: I love the sweetness of brioche buns, but they can be replaced with any hearty bun like pretzel or whole wheat buns, depending on your preference.
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is an important step that brings sweetness and depth to the burgers. Here’s how to do it right!
- Start with a medium heat and melt your butter in the skillet.
- Add thinly sliced onions and stir them occasionally. Make sure not to rush; cooking them slowly (about 15-20 minutes) lets them develop that rich, golden color.
- As they cook, sprinkle a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
- When they are soft and browned, add the beef broth, allowing it to reduce slightly for added flavor.
This slow process is worth the time and adds amazing flavor to your burgers!
How to Make French Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef broth
For Assembly:
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 brioche hamburger buns
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
- Optional: Fresh thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 20 minutes getting the onions nice and caramelized while grilling the burgers simultaneously. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Burger Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. It’s best to mix with your hands until everything is evenly combined. Then, form the mixture into four equal patties. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; just ensure they are all about the same thickness for even cooking!
2. Caramelizing the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown. This slow cooking helps develop their sweet flavor. Once they’re beautifully caramelized, pour in the beef broth. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly, and then take it off the heat.
3. Grilling the Burgers:
While the onions are cooking, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush each burger patty with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare or until they reach your preference. Just before they are fully done, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the grill for about 1-2 minutes to let the cheese melt. Yum!
4. Toasting the Buns and Assembling:
Don’t forget to toast the brioche buns on the grill until they’re golden brown! To assemble the burgers, take the bottom half of each bun and place a cheesy patty on top. Add a generous spoonful of the caramelized onions, and if you like, drizzle a little extra beef broth for a savory touch. Finally, place the top half of the bun on your burger.
5. Garnishing and Serving:
If you like a pop of flavor, sprinkle some fresh thyme on top of the burgers now. Serve them up hot and enjoy your delicious French Onion Burgers! Perfect for a casual dinner or weekend barbecue!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner option for this recipe. Just be aware that turkey can dry out more easily, so consider adding a bit of extra Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of olive oil to keep the patties juicy.
What Can I Substitute for Swiss Cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese on hand, you can use Gruyère or provolone cheese for a similar flavor profile and meltiness. Cheddar is also a great option if you prefer a sharper taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The caramelized onions can also be stored separately and added back on when reheating.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare caramelized onions in advance! Just cook them as instructed, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat them in a skillet before serving for that delicious fresh taste.
