Name: Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 large sweet onions (thinly sliced); 4 tablespoons butter; Kosher salt; pepper; 1 pound lean ground beef; crumbled blue cheese (for topping); 1 head iceberg lettuce (for wrapping); 2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Looking for a burger that brings the flavors of a classic blue cheese delight while keeping things light and fresh? Let me introduce you to my Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions. This dish combines juicy, seasoned beef patties with rich, melting blue cheese, topped off with sweet, caramelized onions, all wrapped in crisp iceberg lettuce leaves. It’s a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just treating yourself to a delicious dinner at home.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying without feeling heavy, thanks to the use of lettuce wraps instead of traditional buns. The combination of savory beef, tangy blue cheese, and sweet caramelized onions creates a flavor explosion that will keep your taste buds dancing. Additionally, it’s a versatile dish; you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or side dishes. Plus, these blue cheeseburgers are quick to prepare, making them a go-to for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredient Rundown

4 large sweet onions, thinly sliced – The star of our caramelized topping, adding sweetness and depth to the burgers.
4 tablespoons butter – Used to caramelize the onions, providing richness and flavor.
Kosher salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning both the beef and the onions, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
1 pound lean ground beef – The foundation of our burgers; choose a good quality beef for the best taste.
Crumbled blue cheese – For topping the burgers, delivering that signature tangy flavor.
1 head iceberg lettuce – The perfect wrap for our burgers, offering a crisp and fresh bite.
2 to 3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives – A fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
½ cup mayonnaise – Creamy, rich, and a great base for our sauce.
1 tablespoon honey – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – For a bit of tang and zest in our sauce.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Large skillet – For caramelizing the onions and cooking the burgers.
Spatula – To flip the burgers and stir the onions.
Mixing bowl – For combining the mayonnaise, honey, and mustard.
Meat thermometer – Optional, but great for checking the doneness of the burgers.
Serving platter – To beautifully present your Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions.

Step-by-Step: Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions.

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating your large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Once melted, add the thinly sliced sweet onions. Sprinkle with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Stir occasionally, allowing the onions to cook slowly, caramelizing to a beautiful golden brown. This process should take about 25-30 minutes, so be patient and enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties

While the onions are caramelizing, take your pound of lean ground beef and place it in a mixing bowl. Season generously with kosher salt and pepper. Gently mix the seasoning into the beef, being careful not to overwork the meat. Divide the beef into four equal portions and shape them into patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

Once the onions are caramelized, push them to one side of the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Place the beef patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the burgers and add crumbled blue cheese on top of each patty. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until the burgers reach your desired level of doneness.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. Stir until well mixed. This creamy sauce will add an extra layer of flavor to your burgers.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

To assemble your Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions, take a large iceberg lettuce leaf and place a burger patty in the center. Top with a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, a drizzle of the creamy sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives. Wrap the lettuce around the filling, and your burger is ready to enjoy!

Substitutions by Category

Beef: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Blue Cheese: Swap for feta or goat cheese if you prefer a different flavor.
Butter: Olive oil or coconut oil can be used to sauté the onions.
Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative for the sauce.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Caramelizing onions is a labor of love. The slower you cook them, the sweeter and more flavorful they will become.
Feel free to customize the toppings! Add sliced tomatoes, pickles, or even avocado for an extra twist.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make extra patties to have on hand for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions fresh, store the cooked patties and caramelized onions separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The patties will last for up to 4 days, while the onions will stay good for about a week. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave, and assemble with fresh lettuce and toppings.

Don’t Miss These

Sally’s Baking Addiction – For more delicious recipes and baking tips.
Pinch of Yum – Explore a variety of healthy and tasty dishes.
Minimalist Baker – Perfect for quick and easy recipes with minimal ingredients.
Love and Lemons – A great resource for fresh, seasonal recipes.

In Closing

Lettuce Wrap Blue CheeseBurgers with Caramelized Onions are a scrumptious way to enjoy the classic flavors of a burger while keeping it light and fresh. The sweetness of the caramelized onions perfectly complements the tang of the blue cheese, wrapped in crispy lettuce that adds crunch and freshness. Whether you’re trying to eat a bit healthier or simply looking for a new twist on a favorite dish, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. So fire up your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of this delectable meal!