Hello, burger fans! If you love the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup, then you’re in for a treat. Imagine that incredible combination of caramelized onions and melty cheese in burger form – it’s everything you love about both dishes in one delicious bite. These French Onion Soup Burgers are juicy, cheesy, and topped with sweet, caramelized onions that will make you feel like you’re eating at a fancy bistro. Let’s get into it!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20) – A slightly higher fat content makes for juicy, flavorful burgers.
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced – Essential for that rich, sweet caramelized onion topping.
- 2 tbsp butter – Adds richness when caramelizing the onions.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning while cooking the onions.
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a savory, umami depth to the beef, enhancing the “French onion soup” flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Basic seasoning to bring out the natural flavors.
- 4 slices of Gruyère or Swiss cheese – Gruyère is the classic choice for French onion soup and melts beautifully.
- 4 brioche buns – Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for holding all the flavors together.
How to Make French Onion Soup Burgers
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add the butter and olive oil. Once melted, add the sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. Set aside when done.
Step 2: Season the Beef
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently – overworking the meat can make the burgers tough.
Step 3: Shape and Cook the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and form into patties, slightly larger than your buns as they’ll shrink when cooking. Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until they reach your preferred doneness.
Step 4: Add Cheese
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese on each patty and cover with a lid to melt the cheese.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Lightly toast the brioche buns in the same skillet or on the grill for a few seconds until golden. Place the cooked patties on the bottom buns, then top with a generous portion of caramelized onions. Finish with the top bun.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve these burgers immediately, hot and gooey with melted cheese and sweet onions. Pair them with crispy fries or a simple green salad for a fantastic meal!
Equipment Needed for This Recipe
- Skillet or grill pan – For cooking the burgers and caramelizing the onions.
- Mixing bowl – To season and mix the beef.
- Spatula – For flipping the burgers.
- Lid or cover – To help melt the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyère is traditional for French onion soup, Swiss cheese is also delicious. You could even try provolone or mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor.
How do I know when the onions are fully caramelized?
Caramelized onions take patience. They should be a deep golden-brown color and very soft. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes, but they’re worth the wait!
Can I make the onions ahead of time?
Yes! Caramelized onions store well in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat them before adding to your burgers.
What’s the best ground beef to use for juicy burgers?
I recommend using 80/20 ground beef – that’s 80% lean and 20% fat. The fat adds flavor and moisture, giving you a juicier burger.
Should I toast the buns?
Yes, toasting the buns adds a bit of crunch and prevents them from getting soggy. Just a light toast will do!
Can I make these burgers on a grill?
Definitely! Just follow the same steps, but cook the patties on a preheated grill instead of a skillet. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
What can I serve with French Onion Soup Burgers?
They pair wonderfully with crispy fries, a green salad, or even a light soup if you want to stick with the French theme.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed this French Onion Soup Burger recipe! It’s a unique twist that brings together two comfort food classics in a way that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Don’t forget to share this recipe on Facebook or save it on Pinterest so you can come back to it later. Bon appétit!
