Smoky Garlic Burger with Sweet Applewood Caramelized Onions
Say hello to summer! Smoky Garlic Burgers with Sweet Applewood Caramelized Onions are the perfect way to welcome patio season. Customize these burgers however you’d like, but we think the simplicity of the onions and American cheese are truly all they need! Member’s Mark™ Smoky Garlic Burger Seasoningis an all-purpose blend that combines the rich flavors of dried onion, garlic, black pepper, paprika, and dill for a savory finish that’s sure to impress. Plus, you don’t have to use it just on burgers! Try it on chicken, meatloaf, veggies, or even dip! Member’s Mark™ Sweet Applewood Seasoning is a tantalizing addition to caramelized onions. this delightful mix of caramelized applewood flavor, brown sugar, roasted garlic, and a hint of chipotle also tastes great on meats, potatoes, pork – you name it!
Tips for Grilling the Perfect Burger
A great grilled burger is all about balancing flavor, texture, and heat control. Here are the biggest things that make a difference:
Start with the Right Beef
- Use 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat). The fat keeps burgers juicy and flavorful.
- Avoid overworking the meat — loosely form patties so they stay tender.
- Make patties slightly wider than the bun since they shrink while cooking.
The Thumbprint Trick
Press a shallow indentation in the center of each patty before grilling. This helps prevent the burger from puffing into a dome.
Get the Grill Properly Hot
A hot grill creates that flavorful crust.
- Preheat for at least 10–15 minutes
- Clean and oil the grates
- Use two heat zones if possible:
- Hot side for searing
- Cooler side for finishing thicker burgers
Don’t Smash the Burgers
Once they hit the grill:
- Resist pressing them down with the spatula
- That squeezes out juices and can cause flare-ups
The exception is intentionally making smash burgers on a flat top or griddle.
Flip Once if Possible
Let the burger develop a crust before flipping.
- Usually 3–5 minutes per side depending on thickness
- If it sticks to the grill, it probably isn’t ready to flip yet
Use Temperature Instead of Guessing
For best results, use an instant-read thermometer:
- Medium-rare: 130–135°F
- Medium: 140–145°F
- Medium-well: 150–155°F
Remember burgers continue cooking a bit after coming off the grill.
Cheese Timing Matters
Add cheese during the last minute of cooking and close the lid briefly to melt it perfectly.
Great burger cheeses:
- American
- Cheddar
- Pepper jack
- Swiss
- Blue cheese
Toast the Buns
A lightly toasted bun makes a huge difference.
- Toast cut-side down for 30–60 seconds
- Adds texture and helps prevent sogginess
Rest Briefly
Let burgers rest 3–5 minutes before serving so juices redistribute.
Easy Flavor Upgrades
Try adding:
- Caramelized onions
- Grilled jalapeños
- Bacon jam
- Burger sauce
- Pickles
- Fried egg
- BBQ sauce
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using meat that’s too lean
- Constant flipping
- Pressing burgers flat
- Cooking straight from ice-cold fridge temps
- Overcrowding the grill
- Oversalting too early
For a backyard cookout, burgers pair especially well with grilled corn, pasta salad, watermelon feta salad, baked beans, or kettle chips.
Smoky Garlic Burgers with Sweet Applewood Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 1⅓ lbs Ground beef
- 1 tbsp Member's Mark™ Smoky Garlic Burger Seasoning
- American cheese slices
- 4 Brioche buns
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 large Yellow onions sliced
- 2 tbsp Member's Mark™ Sweet Applewood Seasoning
Instructions
For the Burgers
- Mix beef with Member's Mark™ Smoky Garlic Burger Seasoning; form 4 patties.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping once. Add extra Member's Mark™ Smoky Garlic Burger Seasoning, as desired.
- Toast buns and melt cheese on burgers. Top with caramelized onions and serve!
For the Caramelized Onions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add the onions and Member's Mark™ Sweet Applewood Seasoning.
- Sauté onions for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown.