Description
These Savory Caramelized Onion and Cheese Burgers combine juicy, flavorful beef patties infused with onion soup mix and topped with richly caramelized onions and melted Swiss or Provolone cheese. Perfectly toasted buns add the finishing touch to a delicious homemade burger that’s bursting with savory sweetness and depth.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (choose a mix with a bit of fat for juicier burgers)
- 4 to 6 tablespoons Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 4 burger buns
- Butter or oil for brushing (for toasting buns)
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 1/4 tablespoons butter (from 2 1/2 tablespoons total, reserved in part for onions)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- A pinch of thyme
- 3/4 cup water (adjust as needed)
- 1 tablespoon brandy or Sherry (optional but recommended)
For the Cheese Topping
- 4 to 8 ounces Swiss or Provolone cheese (your preference)
Instructions
- Mix the Meat and Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Mix thoroughly and let the beef rest while preparing the onions to allow flavors to meld.
- Start the Onions: In a skillet or pan over medium heat, melt 2 1/4 tablespoons of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of thyme to the pan.
- Simmer the Onions: Pour in 3/4 cup water. Cover the pan and let the onions simmer gently, softening and releasing their sweetness.
- Caramelize Onions: Once the water has evaporated, uncover the pan and continue cooking the onions, stirring occasionally. Add more water as necessary to prevent burning while allowing the onions to brown and caramelize deeply.
- Finish Onions with Brandy: When the onions turn a golden-brown color, add a splash of brandy or Sherry to deglaze the pan and enrich the flavor. Stir well and remove from heat once the alcohol has cooked off.
- Prepare Burger Patties: Shape the seasoned ground beef into 4 to 6 patties, ensuring they are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
- Cook Burgers: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties to your preferred doneness, approximately 4-5 minutes per side for medium, adjusting time as needed.
- Add Cheese and Onions: During the last few minutes of cooking, top each patty with a portion of the caramelized onions and slices of Swiss or Provolone cheese. Allow cheese to melt.
- Toast Buns: While the cheese melts, lightly brush the burger buns with butter or oil and toast them in a separate pan or grill until golden and crisp.
- Assemble Burgers: Place the cheese and onion-topped patties on the toasted buns. Add any additional caramelized onions if desired. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- Using a ground beef blend with some fat (around 15-20%) ensures juicy and flavorful burgers.
- Brandy or Sherry adds depth but can be omitted if preferred.
- You can adjust the amount of onion soup mix for seasoning intensity.
- For a smoky twist, try adding a bit of smoked paprika to the meat.
- Swiss cheese gives a nuttier flavor, while Provolone is mild and melts well; choose according to preference.
- Caramelizing onions slowly over low to medium heat yields the best sweetness and depth of flavor.
