If you love the comforting flavors of French onion soup, then these French Onion Soup Burgers will take your taste buds on a delicious journey. This juicy, savory burger is packed with sweet caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and melted cheese—all sandwiched between a toasted bun for the ultimate bite. It’s a flavor-packed twist on a classic that I know you’ll enjoy.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices of Gruyère or Swiss cheese
4 hamburger buns
1 clove garlic, minced (optional for garlic butter buns)
Additional butter for buns
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, I melt the butter and add the sliced onions along with the sugar. I cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and sweet. If the onions start to stick, I add a splash of beef broth to deglaze the pan.
Prepare the Burger Patties: While the onions are caramelizing, I season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, and then form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
Cook the Burger Patties: In a separate skillet or on a grill, I cook the burger patties to my desired level of doneness, usually about 4-5 minutes per side for medium.
Assemble the Burgers: If I want to elevate the buns, I prepare garlic butter by spreading butter and minced garlic on each bun, then toasting them until golden.
Top the Burgers: On each bun bottom, I place a cooked burger patty, top it with a generous amount of caramelized onions, and add a slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
Broil the Burgers: I broil the assembled burgers for a few minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Serve: Finally, I sprinkle fresh thyme over the cheese, cover with the bun tops, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef patties for veggie patties or portobello mushrooms to create a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
Extra Toppings: For a little extra crunch and flavor, consider adding crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a fried egg on top.
Gluten-Free Buns: If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free hamburger buns or lettuce wraps.
Storage/Reheating
If I happen to have leftovers, I store the burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, I recommend reheating the patty and onions separately in a skillet until warmed through and then assembling the burger with fresh toasted buns. The burger can also be reheated in the microwave, but the texture of the buns might not be as crispy.
FAQs
How can I make the onions cook faster?
If you’re short on time, you can increase the heat slightly to speed up the caramelization process, but be sure to stir frequently to avoid burning the onions. Adding a splash of beef broth also helps soften them quicker.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that turkey is milder in flavor, so you may want to adjust the seasoning to your taste.
What if I don’t have Gruyère or Swiss cheese?
If I don’t have Gruyère or Swiss cheese, I can use other cheeses that melt well, like cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone.
How do I make garlic butter for the buns?
To make garlic butter, I simply melt some butter and stir in minced garlic. I spread this mixture onto the cut sides of the hamburger buns before toasting them until golden brown.
Can I freeze the cooked burgers?
Yes, I can freeze the cooked patties and caramelized onions separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm the patties in the oven or on the stovetop and reassemble the burgers.
Conclusion
These French Onion Soup Burgers bring the beloved flavors of French onion soup to a new level, creating a juicy and savory burger that’s sure to satisfy. With sweet caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and gooey melted cheese, every bite is a comforting delight. Whether I’m making it for dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. So, go ahead and try it—I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!
Recipe:
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French Onion Soup Burgers
If you love French onion soup, these French Onion Soup Burgers will be your new favorite. A juicy burger with caramelized onions, melted cheese, savory beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce all nestled in a toasted garlic butter bun. This twist on a classic soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices of Gruyère or Swiss cheese
4 hamburger buns
1 clove garlic, minced (optional for garlic butter buns)
Additional butter for buns
Instructions
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Caramelize the Onions: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until deeply caramelized. Add beef broth to deglaze if needed.
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Prepare the Burger Patties: While the onions cook, season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Form into 4 equal-sized patties.
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Cook the Burger Patties: Grill or cook patties in a skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until medium doneness.
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Toast the Buns: For garlic butter buns, mix melted butter with minced garlic. Spread onto buns and toast until golden brown.
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Assemble the Burgers: Place cooked patties on bun bottoms, top with caramelized onions and a slice of Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
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Broil the Burgers: Place burgers under a broiler for a few minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh thyme and serve immediately.
Notes
Vegetarian Version: Replace beef patties with veggie patties or portobello mushrooms.
Cheese Variations: Swap Gruyère or Swiss with cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone for a twist.
Toppings: Add crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a fried egg for extra flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Burgers
- Method: Grilling, Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 650 kcal per burger
