French Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on your classic burger! Imagine a juicy beef patty topped with rich, caramelized onions and melted cheese, all packed in a soft bun.
Honestly, this is the kind of burger that makes you want to clap your hands in delight! I love serving it with crispy fries. It’s an easy way to impress at cookouts—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for these burgers. This ratio keeps the burgers moist and juicy. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken also works, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing because they get sweet as they cook. If you want a milder flavor, you could use sweet onions like Vidalia. If you’re short on time, pre-sliced onions can work too, but I love the fresh taste of slicing them myself.
Buns: Brioche buns are my favorite for their slight sweetness, which complements the savory flavors. If you can’t find brioche, sesame seed or whole wheat buns are great alternatives with a nice texture.
Cheese: Provolone cheese gives a lovely meltiness, but Gruyère adds a nutty flavor. If neither is available, mozzarella can also be good for its stretchiness, or try cheddar for a sharper taste.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is an important step that enhances their flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium and add olive oil. Don’t rush this part; let the oil heat up before adding onions.
- Once hot, add the sliced onions along with salt. The salt helps draw out moisture, aiding in the caramelization process.
- Cook on medium to low heat, stirring frequently. Be patient; this process takes about 15-20 minutes. Avoid high heat to prevent burning.
- When they’re golden and soft, add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the liquid mostly evaporates (about 5 minutes) for added flavor.
How to Make French Onion Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for optimal juiciness)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 4 slices of provolone cheese (or Gruyère cheese)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche, for sweetness)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to cook. You can expect a total time of 45 minutes from start to finish, including the caramelizing of onions and cooking the perfect burgers. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful twist on classic burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle them with salt. Stir the onions frequently and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown and caramelized. Don’t rush this step; patience is key! Towards the end, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, cooking everything together for about 5 more minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated. Once done, set the caramelized onions aside.
2. Preparing the Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, black pepper, and garlic powder. Use your hands to mix everything gently—over-mixing can make the burgers tough! Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, and make a small indentation in the center of each patty. This little trick helps prevent the burgers from puffing up while they cook.
3. Cooking the Burgers:
Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the burger patties on the grill or skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on how well-done you like your burgers. When they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, they are medium and ready to go!
4. Adding the Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, add a slice of cheese atop each patty. Cover it with a lid to help the cheese melt beautifully into the burger. This gives you that luscious, gooey topping we all love!
5. Assembling the Burgers:
While the cheese melts, toast the hamburger buns lightly until they’re golden. Then, place each burger patty on the bottom half of the bun. Generously top each with the delicious caramelized onions, and finish off by placing the top bun over it.
6. Serving Up:
Optional, but recommended: garnish your burgers with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of flavor and color. Serve your mouthwatering French Onion Burgers hot with your favorite sides like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that these meats tend to be leaner, so you may want to add a bit of olive oil or cheese to keep the burgers juicy. Aim for a mixture that’s around 80/20 to capture the necessary moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Provolone or Gruyère Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute with other cheese varieties that melt well, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss cheese. Each will give a slightly different flavor, so choose one based on your preference!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can cook the caramelized onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat when you’re ready to make your burgers, adding a bit of water or broth to help them rehydrate and revive their flavors.
