Caramelized Onion Burger (Printable Version)
# What You'll Need:
→ Beef Blends
01 -
680 g ground chuck (80/20 fat ratio) for juicy, flavorful patties
→ Caramelized Onions
02 -
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced into half-moons
03 -
30 g unsalted butter
04 -
15 ml olive oil
05 -
Pinch of sea salt
06 -
15 ml balsamic vinegar
→ Cheese
07 -
4 slices Swiss cheese (or preferred melting cheese)
→ Buns and Condiments
08 -
4 brioche buns, sliced and lightly toasted
09 -
15 ml Dijon mustard or aioli
10 -
Leaves of butter lettuce or arugula
→ Seasonings
11 -
Kosher salt, to taste
12 -
Coarse black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Heat butter and olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pan over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 45-60 minutes until onions turn a deep golden brown. In the last minutes, add balsamic vinegar and stir to glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 -
Form 680 g ground chuck into 4 loose patties, each about 170 g. Create a shallow dimple in the center of each patty to prevent puffing. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Let patties rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
03 -
Heat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and lightly smoking. Add a small amount of oil to the pan. Place patties onto the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. In the final minute, place a slice of Swiss cheese on each patty and cover the pan to melt.
04 -
Slice brioche buns horizontally and toast cut sides lightly until golden brown. Optionally, brush with butter or olive oil for added richness. Keep warm until assembly.
05 -
Spread Dijon mustard or aioli on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer with fresh lettuce or arugula, place the hot cheese-topped patty on top, then add a generous portion of warm caramelized onions. Crown with the top bun and press gently to combine flavors.
06 -
Cut the assembled burgers diagonally for visual appeal. Optionally secure with toothpicks. Serve immediately on warmed plates, providing napkins for a satisfying, flavorful experience.
# Helpful Notes:
01 -
Slow cooking onions over low heat develops natural sweetness and complex flavors; rushing this process may result in burning and bitterness.