French Onion Soup Burger

Alright, listen up, future burger connoisseurs! We're taking a classic French onion soup and transforming it into a burger experience that'll have you saying "Ooh la la!" I'm talking rich, caramelized onions, Gruyere cheese oozing everywhere, and a patty that's seasoned just right. This isn't your average burger, folks, this is cuisine.

French Onion Soup Burger

Yields: 4 servings Prep Time: 30 minutes (mostly caramelizing onions!) Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup beef broth

For the Burger Patties:

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor and juiciness)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Assembly:

• 4 brioche buns, or your favorite burger bun
• 4 slices Gruyere cheese (or Swiss cheese if Gruyere is unavailable)
• Dijon mustard (optional, for spreading on the bun)
• Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)

Equipment:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Grill or cast iron skillet
• Spatula
• Small saucepan (optional for broth)

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions (The Soul of the Soup):

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat.
• Add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat.
• Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the onions are a deep golden brown and very soft. This takes patience! Don't rush it, that's where the magic happens.
• Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
• Deglaze the pan with the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Reduce heat to low, and let the broth absorb into the onions for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Prepare the Burger Patties:

• In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Don't overmix; you want the patties to be tender.
• Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form them into patties, about ¾ inch thick. Use your thumb to create a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from bulging during cooking.

3. Cook the Burgers:

• Preheat your grill or cast iron skillet to medium-high heat.
• Cook the burger patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness.
• During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of Gruyere cheese on top of each patty and let it melt. You can tent the pan with foil or cover with a lid to help the cheese melt faster.

4. Assemble the Burgers:

• While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the brioche buns.
• If desired, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the bottom bun.
• Place the cheesy burger patty on the bottom bun.
• Generously top the patty with the caramelized onions.
• Place the top bun on top.
• Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme (optional).

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as fries, onion rings, or a simple salad.
• Don't forget to grab some napkins – this burger is deliciously messy!

Chef's Notes and Tips:

• Onion Choice: Yellow onions are the classic choice for French onion soup due to their sweetness. You can use Vidalia onions if they are in season.
• Caramelization Secret: Low and slow is the key to perfect caramelized onions. Be patient and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Beef Broth Substitution: If you don't have beef broth, you can use vegetable broth or even dry red wine in a pinch, but beef broth adds the most authentic flavor.
• Buns Matter: Brioche buns are perfect for this burger because they are soft, rich, and slightly sweet, which complements the flavors of the caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese.
• Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your burgers are cooked to your desired doneness. Medium-rare is around 130-135°F (54-57°C).
• Wine Pairing: A glass of Pinot Noir or a dry Rosé would pair beautifully with this rich and savory burger.

Now get in that kitchen and create some magic! Bon appétit!