French Onion Soup Burgers: A Gourmet Twist on a Classic

Introduction

Combine the savory richness of French onion soup with the hearty satisfaction of a gourmet burger, and you get the French Onion Soup Burger. This recipe melds the deep flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese with a perfectly grilled beef patty, all sandwiched between toasted buns. Perfect for a fancy lunch or a casual dinner, this burger will elevate any meal.

The Inspiration

French onion soup, a bistro classic known for its beefy broth and caramelized onion topped with a cheesy crouton, serves as the inspiration for this burger. The challenge is to capture all those complex flavors and textures in a burger format.

Ingredients

To create French Onion Soup Burgers, you’ll need:

• 1.5 pounds of ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 slices of Gruyère cheese
• 4 hamburger buns
• Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Caramelizing the Onions

• Cook the Onions: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.
• Deglaze: Add balsamic vinegar and beef broth to the onions, and reduce the heat to low. Let simmer until the liquid is mostly evaporated, creating a rich onion jam consistency.

2. Preparing the Patties

• Season the Beef: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt and pepper. Form into 4 patties, slightly indenting the center for even cooking.
• Grill the Patties: Grill the patties to your preferred doneness. For medium-rare, cook about 4 minutes per side.

3. Assembling the Burgers

• Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the buns and toast them on the grill for a minute or two until golden and crispy.
• Cheese: Place a slice of Gruyère cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
• Assemble: On each toasted bun bottom, place a grilled cheese-topped patty. Top with a generous spoonful of the caramelized onions. If desired, garnish with thyme leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your French Onion Soup Burgers with a side of crispy fries or a light salad to balance out the richness. Pair with a stout beer or a glass of robust red wine that complements the deep flavors of the burger.

Conclusion

The French Onion Soup Burger is a true gourmet delight, combining the essence of French onion soup with the universal appeal of a classic burger. This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a perfect example of how traditional flavors can be transformed into something uniquely satisfying. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these burgers are sure to impress.