French Onion Soup Burgers

These French Onion Soup Burgers combine all the savory flavors of French onion soup into a delicious, juicy burger. Topped with caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese, these burgers offer a gourmet twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

For the Burgers:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices Gruyère cheese
• 4 brioche buns, toasted
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Caramelize Onions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften, about 10 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the onions with sugar, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth and balsamic vinegar to the skillet, stirring to deglaze the pan. Cook until the liquid has evaporated and the onions are jam-like in consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare Burger Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Form the mixture into 4 equal patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.

Cook Burgers:

1. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
2. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyère cheese on each patty to melt.

Prepare Buns:

1. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread the mixture on the top and bottom halves of the toasted brioche buns.

Assemble Burgers:

1. Place a burger patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top with a generous amount of caramelized onions.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired, then place the top half of the bun on each burger.

Serve:

1. Serve the French Onion Soup Burgers hot, with your favorite side dishes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of Gruyère?
   Yes, you can use Swiss cheese or provolone as alternatives.
2. Can I make the caramelized onions in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the onions up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
3. What type of ground beef is best for these burgers?
   Ground beef with 80% lean meat and 20% fat is ideal for juicy, flavorful burgers.
4. Can I use a different type of bun?
   Yes, you can use any type of burger bun, but brioche or a sturdy bun works best for holding all the toppings.
5. How can I ensure my burgers are cooked evenly?
   Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; aim for 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness.
6. Can I add other toppings to these burgers?
   Yes, you can add toppings like sautéed mushrooms, lettuce, or pickles for extra flavor.
7. How do I reheat leftover caramelized onions?
   Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
8. Can I freeze the cooked burgers?
   Yes, you can freeze cooked patties; wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
9. What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
   You can use soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar as substitutes.
10. How can I make the burgers spicier?
    Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the burger patties or caramelized onions for a kick.

Conclusion

French Onion Soup Burgers offer a delicious blend of classic French onion soup flavors with the hearty satisfaction of a burger. The combination of caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, and a perfectly cooked beef patty makes for a gourmet meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy these burgers with your favorite sides for a memorable dining experience!

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