French Onion Soup Burgers combine the rich flavors of French onion soup with juicy beef patties, creating a mouthwatering burger experience. Caramelized onions, melted cheese, and toasted buns elevate this classic dish into a gourmet delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix (or 4-6 tablespoons homemade mix)
- 2 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- Pinch of thyme
- 3/4 cup water (divided)
- 1 tablespoon brandy or sherry (optional)
- 4-8 ounces Gruyere or Provolone cheese, sliced
- 4 onion buns, buttered and toasted
Instructions:
Preparing the Burgers:
- Mix Ground Beef and Onion Soup Mix:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with the onion soup mix. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized burger patties.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Remove from heat and set aside.
Caramelizing the Onions:
- Sauté Onions:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add Thyme and Water:
- Sprinkle a pinch of thyme over the caramelized onions and stir to combine. Pour in 1/4 cup of water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Allow the onions to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the liquid has evaporated.
- Optional: Add Brandy or Sherry:
- For extra flavor, stir in brandy or sherry (if using) and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the alcohol has cooked off.
Assembling the Burgers:
- Top with Cheese:
- Place a slice of Gruyere or Provolone cheese on each burger patty while they’re still hot, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese.
- Toast the Buns:
- Butter the onion buns and toast them lightly on a grill or in a skillet until golden brown and crispy.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Place each burger patty on a toasted onion bun. Top with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions.
- Serve:
- Serve the French Onion Soup Burgers hot, with your favorite sides like crispy fries or a fresh green salad.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Homemade Onion Soup Mix: If you prefer homemade seasoning, mix together dried minced onions, beef bouillon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Swiss, Havarti, or sharp cheddar for unique flavor combinations.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based burger patties or grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Burger Toppings: Add fresh lettuce, tomato slices, or pickles to your burger for extra crunch and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these burgers ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the burger patties and caramelized onions in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the burgers just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftover burgers? A: Absolutely! Wrap the cooked burger patties tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of bun? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite burger bun such as brioche, sesame seed, or whole wheat for a different flavor and texture.
Q: What can I serve with these burgers? A: French fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a side salad make excellent accompaniments to these flavorful burgers.
Q: Can I make this recipe without alcohol? A: Yes, you can omit the brandy or sherry if you prefer. The burgers will still be delicious without it.
French Onion Soup Burgers offer a delightful twist on the classic burger, combining the comforting flavors of French onion soup with juicy beef patties and melted cheese. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these burgers are perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue. Serve them up and watch as your family and friends savor every bite!
