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Savory Burger with Sweet Caramelized Onion Jam

savory burger with sweet caramelized onion jam - featured image

A juicy, savory burger paired with a rich and sweet caramelized onion jam, perfect for a comforting dinner or casual gatherings. This recipe balances nostalgic flavors with a sophisticated twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Fresh lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Dill pickles
  • Mayonnaise or your favorite burger sauce

Instructions

  1. Make the Caramelized Onion Jam: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and stir to coat. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until onions soften and turn deep golden brown (about 25-30 minutes). Halfway through, sprinkle in brown sugar and salt. Once browned, stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2-3 minutes until jammy. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Burger Patties: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly. Divide into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and shape into patties slightly wider than buns. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  3. Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add cheese slices in the last minute and cover loosely to melt. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 160°F internal temperature.
  4. Toast the Buns: While burgers cook, lightly toast brioche buns on the grill or in a toaster oven until golden and slightly crisp.
  5. Assemble the Burgers: Spread mayonnaise or preferred sauce on bottom bun, add lettuce leaf, burger patty with melted cheese, a generous spoonful of caramelized onion jam, tomato slices, and pickles. Top with the bun.
  6. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

If onions start to burn, reduce heat and add a splash of water. Rest patties for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute juices. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter. Avoid pressing burgers while cooking to keep them juicy.

Nutrition

Keywords: burger, caramelized onion jam, savory burger, dinner recipe, easy burger, homemade burger, comfort food, caramelized onions