Get ready for a tasty twist on burgers with these Cheesy French Onion Burgers! Packed with juicy meat, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, it’s a flavor party.
Who knew a burger could taste like a fancy French onion soup? It’s the perfect dish for impressing friends or treating yourself. I like to serve mine with crispy fries for a real feast! 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for the juiciest burgers. If you prefer a leaner option, go for 90/10. You can even use ground turkey or chicken if you’d like a lighter choice.
Onions: Yellow onions work best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you have sweet onions (like Vidalia) on hand, they make a tasty alternative too!
Cheese: Swiss is classic for its meltiness, but feel free to use Gruyère for a stronger flavor. Provolone or cheddar are also great substitutes if you have them.
Brioche Buns: These add a touch of sweetness and softness. If you can’t find brioche, use any sturdy burger bun or even whole wheat for a healthier swap.
How Do You Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions can be tricky, but with patience, it’s easy! Start by heating butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sprinkle a bit of salt, sugar, and thyme to enhance their sweetness.
- Cook slowly for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally; trust me on the patience—this is where the flavor deepens.
- When the onions turn golden brown, they are ready! Remove them from heat and set aside to top your burgers.
Enjoy crafting these delicious burgers! They combine classic flavors in a fun, satisfying way.
How to Make Cheesy French Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère)
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth or French onion soup (for drizzling)
- Optional: fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, you’ll need about 45 minutes total to create these delicious burgers from start to finish. Perfect for a weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat. When it’s nice and hot, add your sliced onions along with the sugar, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want those onions to turn soft, gooey, and golden brown—this is where the sweetness comes from! Once they’re caramelized, remove them from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Patties:
Grab your ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a burger patty, aiming for about 3/4 inch thick. Don’t forget to season both sides generously with salt and black pepper for great flavor!
3. Cook the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Just before they’re done, add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of each patty and cover the grill or skillet to help the cheese melt perfectly.
4. Toast the Buns:
While your cheese is melting, take the brioche buns and split them in half. Lightly toast them on the grill or in a skillet until they’re nice and golden brown. This adds a lovely crispness to each bite!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Now, it’s time to put everything together! Spread a layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy burger patty on top, and then pile on the luscious caramelized onions. Finish it off with a drizzle of beef broth or a spoonful of French onion soup over the onions for that deep flavor.
6. Top and Serve:
Finally, place the top bun on each burger. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprig of fresh thyme for garnish. Serve immediately alongside crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
These juicy burgers are sure to be a hit! Enjoy the delightful flavors of sweet onions and melted goodness—you won’t be disappointed!
FAQ for Cheesy French Onion Burgers
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Just be sure to keep an eye on cooking times, as they may cook a bit faster than beef.
What if I Don’t Have Swiss Cheese?
No worries! Gruyère is a great alternative that melts beautifully. You can also use cheddar, provolone, or even mozzarella if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in a skillet before adding them to your burgers to revive that delicious flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftovers, store the patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the patties and assemble the burgers fresh.
