Description

Gourmet French Onion Soup Burgers combine the rich, caramelized flavors of classic French onion soup with juicy, cheesy beef patties. This recipe features slowly cooked sweet onions enhanced with thyme and beef broth, layered atop perfectly grilled burger patties smothered in melted Gruyère cheese, all nestled in toasted brioche buns for an indulgent twist on a traditional burger.

Ingredients

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For the Burger Patties

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Caramelized Onions

1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
1/4 cup beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For Assembly

4 slices Gruyère or Swiss cheese
4 brioche or crusty burger buns
1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Burger Patties: Shape the ground beef into 4 equal-sized patties and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and butter. Add the thinly sliced onions, sugar, and thyme. Cook slowly, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until the onions turn a deep golden brown and are caramelized.
Simmer Onions with Broth: Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the caramelized onions. Let the mixture simmer until it reduces and turns jammy, then remove from heat.
Cook the Burger Patties: Meanwhile, grill or pan-sear the patties over medium-high heat for 3–4 minutes per side or until they reach your preferred doneness.
Melt the Cheese: In the last minute of cooking, top each burger patty with a slice of Gruyère cheese. Cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the patties.
Toast the Buns: Toast the brioche or crusty buns lightly if desired to add texture and warmth to the burger.
Assemble the Burgers: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on each bun (optional), place the cheesy burger patty on the bottom bun, then top with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For added French onion soup flavor, briefly dip the bottom bun in warm beef broth before assembling the burger.
These burgers are rich and flavorful, pairing wonderfully with roasted potatoes or a light green salad for a balanced meal.