French Onion Burger

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 pound (80/20 blend recommended))
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onions (2 large, thinly sliced)
• Beef broth (1/2 cup)
• Fresh thyme (1 teaspoon, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme))
• Swiss cheese (4 slices)
• Buns (4, preferably brioche or pretzel buns)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Gently mix and form into 4 equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef patties and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness (160°F for medium). Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized and golden brown, about 15 minutes. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of beef broth to deglaze the skillet.
4. Add the remaining beef broth and chopped thyme to the skillet with the onions. Bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Return the beef patties to the skillet and top each with a slice of Swiss cheese.
5. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the patties are heated through.
6. To serve, place the patties on the buns and generously top with the caramelized onion mixture. Optionally, you can add fresh arugula or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for extra flavor.