French Onion Soup Burgers Recipe

Imagine combining the rich, savory flavor of classic French onion soup with a juicy, perfectly cooked burger. That’s exactly what you get with these French Onion Soup Burgers! Caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and a beefy burger patty come together to create a comfort food mashup that will leave your taste buds singing. This recipe takes a bit of time due to the caramelized onions, but it’s well worth the effort for an unforgettable meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat the Butter and Olive Oil: In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet. Stir them occasionally, cooking for about 30-40 minutes. The onions should become golden brown and caramelized.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan. Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
4. Season with Thyme, Salt, and Pepper: Stir in the thyme, then season the onions with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking until the liquid is mostly evaporated and the onions are jammy and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. Shape the Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure the patties are slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink while cooking.
2. Season with Salt and Pepper: Generously season both sides of the patties with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of doneness.
4. Melt the Gruyère Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyère cheese on each patty. Cover the pan or grill to allow the cheese to melt fully.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

1. Butter the Brioche Buns: Spread butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns.
2. Toast the Buns: Place the buns cut-side down in a hot skillet or on the grill and toast them until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread Caramelized Onions: Generously spoon the caramelized onions on the bottom halves of the toasted buns.
2. Top with the Patties: Place the Gruyère-covered burger patties on top of the onions.
3. Finish with the Top Bun: Add the top half of the bun, pressing down slightly to let the flavors meld together.

Tips for Perfect French Onion Soup Burgers

• Low and Slow for Caramelized Onions: The key to perfectly caramelized onions is cooking them low and slow. Be patient, as the deep, sweet flavor comes from the slow caramelization process.
• Use Gruyère Cheese: Gruyère is essential for capturing that French onion soup flavor, but if you can’t find it, Swiss cheese is a good alternative.
• Sear the Patties: Make sure your skillet or grill is hot enough to give the burger patties a nice sear, which locks in the juices and adds flavor.
• Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked burgers, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked beef patties.

Why You’ll Love French Onion Soup Burgers

• Rich Flavor: The combination of savory caramelized onions, melted Gruyère cheese, and juicy beef patties creates a flavor-packed burger.
• Comfort Food Twist: This recipe combines the cozy flavors of French onion soup with the all-American burger for a delicious twist on two comfort food classics.
• Easy to Make: While the onions take time to caramelize, the rest of the recipe is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for any home cook.

Serving Suggestions for French Onion Soup Burgers

These burgers pair wonderfully with sides like:

• French Fries: Classic fries are a great complement to this burger.
• Sweet Potato Fries: For a slightly healthier option with a hint of sweetness, serve with sweet potato fries.
• Simple Green Salad: Balance out the richness of the burgers with a light, refreshing salad.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus add a nice, healthy side option.

Storing and Reheating

Storing:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover burger patties and onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Microwave: You can reheat individual patties and onions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: For best results, reheat the patties and onions in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of French onion soup and burgers, this French Onion Soup Burger is the ultimate combo of two comfort food classics. The rich, sweet caramelized onions paired with the melted Gruyère and juicy beef create a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is great for a cozy night in or a casual dinner party, and it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes! While Gruyère is ideal for its flavor, you can substitute it with Swiss or even provolone cheese.
2. What can I add to the burger for extra flavor?
   You can add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or a dollop of Dijon mustard for added depth and texture.
3. Can I make the caramelized onions ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can make the onions up to 3 days in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to use them.
4. Is it possible to grill the burgers instead of cooking on the stovetop?
   Yes, grilling the patties will give them a great smoky flavor that pairs well with the caramelized onions.
5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Sure! Ground turkey is a leaner option, but it will still taste great with the caramelized onions and cheese.

Yield: 4

French Onion Soup Burgers Recipe

Print

Imagine combining the rich, savory flavor of classic French onion soup with a juicy, perfectly cooked burger. That’s exactly what you get with these French Onion Soup Burgers! Caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and a beefy burger patty come together to create a comfort food mashup that will leave your taste buds singing. This recipe takes a bit of time due to the caramelized onions, but it’s well worth the effort for an unforgettable meal.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Caramelized Onions:
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize)
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup white wine (or more broth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Burgers:
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 is best for juicy burgers)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for an authentic French onion flavor)
• 4 brioche buns or burger buns, toasted
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
• Optional Toppings:
• Fresh thyme leaves or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions:
   Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
   Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with a little salt and the optional sugar, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
   Add the beef broth and wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
   Cook for another 5 minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated. Set the onions aside.
   
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
   Form the beef mixture into 4 evenly sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
   
3. Cook the Burgers:
   Heat a grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   Cook the burger patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
   In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of Swiss or Gruyère cheese, allowing it to melt.
   
4. Assemble the Burgers:
   Spread mayonnaise (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
   Place the burger patty on the bun, top with a generous amount of caramelized onions, and add the top bun.
   
5. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.
   Serve immediately with your favorite side, such as fries or a simple salad.