Print

Flavorful Whiskey Glazed Burger Recipe with Easy Caramelized Onions

whiskey glazed burger - featured image
Print Recipe

A smoky-sweet whiskey glaze coats juicy beef patties topped with slow-cooked caramelized onions, creating a rich and indulgent burger perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) whiskey (bourbon like Maker’s Mark recommended)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for onions)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)
  • 4 brioche buns or preferred burger buns
  • Cheese slices (optional, sharp cheddar or smoked gouda recommended)
  • Fresh lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Condiments like mayo or mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the caramelized onions: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt and optional sugar. Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes, until onions turn golden brown and fragrant, about 25-30 minutes. Add a splash of water if onions start sticking.
  2. Make the whiskey glaze: In a small saucepan, combine whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and glossy. Set aside.
  3. Form and season patties: Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz / 113 g each). Shape into patties about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick, making a slight indentation in the center with your thumb. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
  4. Cook the burgers: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness (internal temp 160°F / 71°C). In the last minute, brush whiskey glaze generously on each patty, flipping carefully to coat both sides and allow glaze to caramelize slightly.
  5. Toast buns and assemble: Optionally toast buns face down on the skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden. Layer bottom bun with lettuce, glazed patty, caramelized onions, tomato slices, cheese (if using), pickles, and condiments. Top with the other bun half.
  6. Serve immediately: Enjoy hot with sides like crispy fries or fresh salad. Rewarm glaze gently if thickened before brushing.

Notes

Use a thumb indentation in patties to prevent puffing. Cook onions low and slow to avoid bitterness. Brush glaze on burgers in the last minute to prevent burning. For gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari. For dairy-free, use olive oil instead of butter. Rest burgers 3 minutes before assembling. Reheat leftovers gently to preserve glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: whiskey glazed burger, caramelized onions, bourbon burger, easy burger recipe, smoky sweet burger, weeknight dinner, casual cookout

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/flavorful-whiskey-glazed-burger-recipe-with-easy-caramelized-onions-step-by-step/