Hawaiian Caramelized Maui Onion Burgers on the Grill

Introduction

Take your taste buds to Hawaii with these juicy caramelized Maui onion burgers! Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill, these beef patties are seared at 1,000°F for an incredible crust before being finished on the flat-top griddle. Topped with sweet, golden caramelized Maui onions and a rich teriyaki glaze, this burger is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Follow this guide to create the best backyard burger with a steakhouse-quality sear!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 large Maui onion, sliced into thick rings
• 1/4 cup teriyaki glaze
• 4 brioche burger buns
• 4 slices Swiss or cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Lettuce and tomato for topping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins and light them.
3. Let the fire burn for about 20 minutes until the cooktop is at optimal temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Patties

1. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions.
2. Gently shape them into patties about 3/4-inch thick without overworking the meat.
3. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Sear the Burgers

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F for a steakhouse-quality crust.
2. Let each side cook for about 1-2 minutes until a rich golden-brown crust forms.
3. Once seared, move the patties to the flat-top cooktop to finish cooking to desired doneness.

Step 4: Caramelize the Maui Onions

1. Place the Maui onion rings on the flat griddle cooktop.
2. Add butter and let them cook slowly, stirring gently, until golden brown and caramelized (about 10 minutes).

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

1. Lightly butter the brioche buns and toast them on the flat cooktop.
2. Place a slice of cheese on each beef patty and let it melt.
3. Spread teriyaki glaze over the bottom bun, place the patty, then top with caramelized Maui onions.
4. Add lettuce and tomato if desired, then top with the bun.

Tips

• For the juiciest burgers, remove them from the grill when they reach 15°F below your desired internal temperature (carryover cooking will finish them).
• Use butter instead of oil for toasting buns and caramelizing onions to enhance the flavor.
• Cook onions over a medium-heat section of the flat-top griddle for perfect caramelization.

Variations

• Spicy Hawaiian Burger: Add grilled pineapple and a touch of sriracha to the teriyaki glaze.
• Bacon Teriyaki Burger: Top with crispy bacon for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
• Blue Cheese Maui Burger: Replace Swiss cheese with crumbled blue cheese for a tangy twist.
• BBQ Western Burger: Swap out teriyaki glaze for barbecue sauce and add fried onion strings.
• Avocado Aioli Burger: Add a homemade avocado aioli spread for a fresh, creamy component.

Best Pairings

• Grilled sweet potato fries
• Hawaiian macaroni salad
• Grilled pineapple slices
• A cold craft beer or pineapple-infused cocktail
• Crisp coleslaw

Conclusion

Grilling these Hawaiian caramelized Maui onion burgers on the Arteflame grill ensures a juicy, flavorful bite every time. The high-heat sear locks in the juices, while the flat griddle caramelizes the onions to perfection. Try one of the delicious variations, and enjoy a taste of Hawaii right at home!