Description
These Savory Caramelized Onion and Cheese Burgers combine juicy, flavorful beef patties seasoned with onion soup mix and topped with rich, sweet caramelized onions and melted Swiss or Provolone cheese. Toasted buns and a splash of brandy enhance the depth of flavor for a classic gourmet burger experience perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably with some fat for juiciness)
- 4 to 6 tablespoons Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 4 to 8 ounces Swiss or Provolone cheese (your preference)
- 4 burger buns
- Butter or oil for brushing (for toasting buns)
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 1/2 tablespoons butter
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- A pinch of thyme
- 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon brandy or Sherry (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Mix the Burger Meat: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground beef with Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Let the mixture rest to allow flavors to meld while preparing other components.
- Prepare the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter to melt, preparing for the onions.
- Add Onions and Simmer: Add the thinly sliced onions, a pinch of thyme, and 3/4 cup water to the skillet. Cover the pan and let the onions simmer gently, allowing them to soften and release moisture.
- Continue Cooking Onions: Once the water has evaporated, uncover the pan and continue cooking the onions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. Add more water if the onions begin sticking before fully caramelizing.
- Add Brandy or Sherry: When the onions turn a golden-brown color and are fully caramelized, add a splash of brandy or Sherry to deepen the flavor, allowing it to cook off for a minute.
- Form the Patties: Shape the rested beef mixture into 4 evenly sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent puffing during cooking.
- Cook the Burger Patties: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties to your preferred doneness, typically about 4-5 minutes per side for medium.
- Add Cheese and Onions to Patties: In the last few minutes of cooking, top each patty with caramelized onions and slices of Swiss or Provolone cheese. Cover or tent with foil to melt the cheese evenly.
- Toast the Buns: While the cheese melts, brush the burger buns with butter or oil and toast them lightly in a separate pan or on the grill until golden and crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place the cheese-topped patties on the toasted buns, add any remaining caramelized onions if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Using a ground beef mix with some fat ensures juicy burgers.
- Adjust the amount of onion soup mix to suit your taste preference.
- Caramelizing onions slowly over medium heat is key to developing their sweet flavor.
- Adding brandy or Sherry is optional but enhances the overall richness.
- Make a slight indentation in the patties to help them cook evenly without puffing up.
- Cheese choice can be swapped for your favorite melting cheese.
