Imagine a juicy burger topped with sweet, caramelized onions and melted cheese. That’s what French Onion Burgers are all about—delicious and comforting!
These burgers are a hit at any cookout! I love how the onions give a burst of flavor that makes every bite special. Pair it with fries for a meal that feels like a treat! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but make sure to add some extra seasoning since they can be a bit drier.
Onions: Sweet yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing. If you want a different flavor, try red onions or shallots. They’ll change the taste a little but will still be delicious!
Gruyere Cheese: Gruyere melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor. If you can’t find it, Swiss cheese or even cheddar can be great alternatives. Just know that they’ll give a different taste.
Brioche Buns: Brioche adds a light sweetness and nice texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat buns or gluten-free buns work well too!
Balsamic Glaze: This is optional, but it adds a nice tang. If you don’t have any, a splash of balsamic vinegar can be used instead. Just drizzle a little, as it’s stronger in flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is about patience. Start by cooking the sliced onions in butter and olive oil on medium heat. Stir them occasionally to prevent burning. If they begin to stick, add a splash of water to the pan.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the onions are soft and golden brown.
- After that, add in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let this mix simmer for 5 minutes to absorb flavors and reduce the liquid slightly.
Taking your time here makes a huge difference in flavor, so don’t rush!
How to Make French Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices Gruyere cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 4 brioche buns
- 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (for drizzling, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 35-40 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15-20 minutes caramelizing the onions, followed by cooking the burgers for about 10 minutes. While the beef cooks, you can toast the buns and get everything else ready. In no time, you’ll have delicious French Onion Burgers to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Melt the butter and olive oil together in the skillet. Once melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Stir them occasionally and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes until they are soft and nicely caramelized. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
2. Add Flavor to the Onions:
Once your onions are caramelized, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the skillet. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes until the liquid reduces a bit. Then, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Patties:
Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats up, take the ground beef and form it into 4 equal patties. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper for flavor.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the patties on the hot grill or in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred doneness (aim for an internal temperature of 160°F for medium).
5. Melt the Cheese:
When the patties are almost done cooking, place a slice of Gruyere cheese on each patty. Cover the skillet loosely for the last minute to help the cheese melt beautifully on top of the burgers.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, toast your brioche buns on the grill or in the toaster until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your burgers!
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
It’s time to put everything together! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and place a patty with melted cheese on it. Top each burger generously with the caramelized onion mixture you set aside earlier.
8. Add the Finishing Touch:
If you like, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the onions for an extra burst of flavor. Then, place the top half of the bun on each burger.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, all that’s left is to serve your delicious French Onion Burgers! Pair them with your favorite sides like fries or a salad, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute. Just keep in mind that it tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a bit more olive oil or a splash of broth to keep the burgers moist. The cooking times may also vary slightly; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
What If I Don’t Have Gruyere Cheese?
No problem! Swiss cheese works well as a substitute and will still give you that creamy texture. You can also try provolone or mozzarella for a milder flavor, but Gruyere really adds that classic French touch!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. You can also re-toast the buns briefly to keep them crispy!
Can I Make the Onion Mixture Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet over low heat when you’re ready to assemble the burgers. This will enhance the flavors even more!
