If you’re a fan of rich, savory flavors and crave the warmth of a comforting bowl of French onion soup, then French Onion Soup Burgers are your perfect fusion meal. This unique burger combines the deep, caramelized flavor of onions, beefy goodness, and melted cheese with a gourmet twist. It’s like biting into a French onion soup—but in burger form. With golden, slow-cooked onions, juicy patties, gooey Gruyère cheese, and a buttery bun, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality experience right at home. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or a weekend treat, these burgers are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to take a bite.
Ingredients
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 4 slices Gruyère cheese (or Swiss as an alternative)
• 4 brioche buns or hamburger buns of choice
• ½ cup beef broth
• Optional: Dijon mustard or mayonnaise for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the caramelized onions: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir well to coat them in the fat. Cook for about 10 minutes, then sprinkle in the sugar and a pinch of salt. Continue cooking the onions on low to medium heat for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and sweet. Add a splash of beef broth or water if they start to stick.
- Deglaze and flavor: Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits for flavor. Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season the beef: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to incorporate the seasonings without overworking the meat. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and form into burger patties.
- Cook the burgers: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4–5 minutes per side for medium, depending on thickness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyère cheese on each patty and cover the pan with a lid to help it melt.
- Toast the buns: While the burgers are cooking, lightly butter the buns and toast them cut-side down on a skillet or grill until golden and crisp.
- Assemble the burgers: Place each cheesy burger patty on the bottom bun. Spoon a generous amount of the caramelized onion mixture over the top. If desired, spread Dijon mustard or a light layer of mayonnaise on the top bun. Cap off your burger and serve hot.
- Serving suggestion: Serve with French fries, a side salad, or even a bowl of extra French onion soup for a fully immersive meal experience.