These French Onion Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic beef burger. Topped with rich caramelized onions and melty cheese, they pack a flavor punch!
Eating one of these burgers feels like a cozy hug! I love how the sweet onions mix with the savory beef—it’s a match made in meal heaven. 🧀🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that these may be a bit drier, so add a bit of extra fat like olive oil.
Onions: Yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, red onions can work too, giving a milder flavor. You could even use shallots for a more delicate taste.
Butter: For sautéing the onions, butter is my go-to for flavor. You can substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter if you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free option.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese provides that classic French onion flavor, but if you can’t find it, try Gruyère or even provolone. Each will give a wonderful melt factor!
Brioche Buns: Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, perfect for these burgers. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free burger buns, which are widely available now.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions transforms their flavor into something special. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a large, heavy skillet on medium heat. Add butter (or oil) and let it melt.
- Add your thinly sliced onions and stir frequently to avoid burning. Cook them slowly for about 15-20 minutes.
- If they start to stick, add a splash of beef broth to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Continue cooking until the onions are golden brown, fragrant, and sweet.
The key is patience! Rushing through this step can lead to burnt onions, so take your time for the best flavor.
How to Make French Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup beef broth
For Assembly:
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Optional: additional Worcestershire sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and mixing the burgers, 15-20 minutes cooking the onions, and around 10 minutes cooking the burgers. It’s worth every minute for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Patties:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix everything together until just combined, but don’t overmix! Form the mixture into four equal patties and set them aside while you prepare the onions.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the sliced onions. Cook the onions, stirring frequently, until they are soft and caramelized. This should take about 15-20 minutes. If the onions start to stick, you can add a bit of beef broth to deglaze the pan and keep everything nice and flavorful!
3. Finish the Onions:
Once the onions are caramelized, pour the remaining beef broth into the skillet with the onions. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors and reduce slightly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
4. Cook the Burgers:
While the onions are cooking, preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the burger patties on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and close the grill lid to let the cheese melt beautifully.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Grab your brioche buns! Start by placing a cheese-topped patty on the bottom half of each bun. Generously spoon the caramelized onions over the patties to really amp up that flavor!
6. Add the Finishing Touch:
If you like, you can drizzle a little extra Worcestershire sauce or balsamic glaze on top for added flavor. Then, put the top half of the bun on to complete your burger.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious French Onion Burgers immediately and enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, but keep in mind that these meats can be drier. To add moisture, increase the amount of Worcestershire sauce or mix in a tablespoon of olive oil. You may also want to monitor the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Faster?
If you’re short on time, you can speed up the caramelization process by cooking the onions over medium-high heat instead of medium. Just be sure to stir them more frequently to prevent burning. Adding a pinch of sugar can also help enhance the caramelization.
Can I Make the Onion Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to use them, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if they seem dry.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave them for 30 seconds to 1 minute or warm on a skillet, adding a little beef broth to keep them juicy. If the burgers are assembled, it may be best to reheat the patties and onions separately to maintain the bun’s texture.
