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Juicy Beef Burgers With Caramelized Onions

These Juicy Beef Burgers with Caramelized Onions are a game-changer for burger night.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 645

Ingredients
  

For the Burger Patties:
  • 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best juiciness)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Caramelized Onions:
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tsp tsp salt
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
For Serving:
  • 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame recommended)
  • 4 slices cheddar or Swiss cheese
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Condiments of choice (mayo, mustard, ketchup)

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Grill or stovetop pan
  • Measuring spoons
  • Burger press (optional, but helpful for shaping uniform patties)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Caramelized Onions
    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
    Add sliced onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, for 15–20 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden brown.
    Stir in brown sugar and optional balsamic vinegar. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Make the Burger Patties
    In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
    Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
    Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties slightly wider than your buns. Use a burger press if available.
  3. Cook the Patties
    Heat a grill or stovetop pan over medium-high heat.
    Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side for medium doneness.
    In the final minute, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover with a lid or foil to melt.
  4. Toast the Buns
    Lightly butter the cut sides of the buns.
    Toast on the grill or in a skillet until golden and crisp.
  5. Assemble the Burgers
    On the bottom bun, place a lettuce leaf.
    Add the beef patty with melted cheese.
    Top with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, a tomato slice, pickles if using, and your choice of condiments.
    Finish with the top bun. Serve immediately.

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

  • Don’t overmix the beef mixture—gentle handling keeps the patties juicy.
  • Indent the center of each patty slightly with your thumb before cooking to prevent bulging.
  • Use brioche buns for extra richness, or sesame buns for classic flavor.
  • Let the patties rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Add jalapeños or crispy bacon for a spicy or smoky twist.