French Onion Soup Burgers
Ingredients:
For the Onion Topping:
- 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for caramelization)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup beef broth (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 4 slices Gruyère or Swiss cheese
For Assembly:
- 4 burger buns (toasted)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat the butter and oil: In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan and stir to coat them in the butter and oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the onions over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This process will take about 25-30 minutes.
- Add balsamic and sugar: Once the onions are soft and golden, add the balsamic vinegar and sugar (if using). Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes. If you want a deeper flavor, add the beef broth and let it reduce slightly.
- Set aside: Remove the onions from the heat and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
- Season the beef: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix to keep the burgers tender).
- Form patties: Divide the beef mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, pressing a small indent in the center of each to prevent puffing up while cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Add cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese on each patty and cover with a lid or foil to melt the cheese.
3. Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Spread mayo: If desired, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Assemble: Place the cooked burger patty with melted cheese on the bottom bun. Top with a generous amount of caramelized onions.
- Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley for a hint of herbaceous flavor.
4. Serve:
- Serve the French Onion Soup Burgers hot with your favorite sides, like fries or a green salad.
Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup in burger form!