Description
Juicy, savory grilled ground beef burgers topped with sweet, jammy caramelized onions. This easy, beginner-proof recipe uses minimal ingredients for maximum flavor and a perfect smoky char.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for sprinkling)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 6–8 burger buns (Brioche or potato rolls)
- 6–8 slices cheese (American, Cheddar, or Provolone)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Caramelize the onions: Heat butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and jammy. Add a splash of water if sticking. Stir in sugar (if using) and thyme. Set aside.
- Mix the burger meat: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands until just combined; do not overmix.
- Form the patties: Divide meat into 6-8 equal portions. Shape into discs slightly wider than your buns. Press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing.
- Grill the burgers: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates. Place patties on the grill and do not move for 4-5 minutes to allow a good char. Flip once and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Add cheese during the last minute and cover to melt.
- Toast the buns: While burgers finish, place buns cut-side down on the grill for the last 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Assemble and serve: Place patty on bottom bun, top with caramelized onions and desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Notes
Keep the meat cold until forming patties to prevent sticking and toughness. Do not press down on burgers while cooking to retain juices. Season the outside of the patties generously before grilling for a better crust. Let burgers rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices. Onions can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with carame
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Protein: 28
Keywords: burgers, ground beef, grilled burgers, caramelized onions, summer grilling, easy dinner, weeknight meals, beef recipes