Introduction

Nothing beats the sweet, caramelized flavor of Georgia-grown Vidalia onions blended into juicy, perfectly seared beef patties. Grilled over an open fire on the Arteflame grill, these burgers get an incredible steakhouse-quality sear, locking in all the juices. The flat cooktop surrounding the center grill grate allows for perfect caramelization of the onions alongside the patties, ensuring every bite is full of rich, grilled flavor. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create the ultimate Vidalia Onion Burgers.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 2 large Vidalia onions, thinly sliced
• 4 brioche hamburger buns
• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Caramelize the Vidalia Onions

1. Place sliced Vidalia onions on the flat cooktop griddle near the center for higher heat.
2. Add 1 tbsp butter and stir occasionally, allowing the onions to soften and caramelize.
3. Move the onions towards the outer edges of the cooktop to keep warm once they turn golden brown.

Step 3: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Form the mixture into four equal patties, making a slight indent in the center of each.

Step 4: Sear the Patties

1. Place the patties on the center grill grate at 1,000°F for about 1 minute per side for a perfect sear.
2. Once seared, move the patties to the flat cooktop griddle to continue cooking to desired doneness.
3. Remove the patties when they are 15°F below the desired internal temperature.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

1. Butter the cut sides of the brioche buns and place them cut-side down on the flat cooktop.
2. Toast until golden brown and slightly crispy, then remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Burgers

1. Spread Dijon mustard and mayonnaise on the toasted buns.
2. Place a cooked patty on the bottom bun and top with caramelized Vidalia onions.
3. Add a slice of cheddar cheese and cover with the top bun.

Tips

• For extra flavor, brush the patties with melted butter before grilling.
• Always let your burgers rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

Variations

1. Spicy Vidalia Burger: Add chopped jalapeños to the ground beef mixture and top with pepper jack cheese.
2. BBQ Bacon Vidalia Burger: Grill crispy bacon on the Arteflame and add BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky twist.
3. Mushroom Swiss Vidalia Burger: Grill mushrooms alongside the onions and top the burger with Swiss cheese.
4. Blue Cheese Vidalia Burger: Mix blue cheese crumbles into the beef and pair with a blue cheese aioli.
5. Pimento Cheese Vidalia Burger: Spread pimento cheese on the bun for a creamy, Southern-inspired taste.

Conclusion

Grilling these Georgia Vidalia Onion Burgers on the Arteflame ensures a perfect combination of smoky, seared beef and sweet caramelized onions. The high temperatures of the center grill grate provide a crisp crust while the flat griddle cooktop ensures even cooking. Impress your family and guests with this irresistible recipe!

Best Pairings

• Buttery grilled corn on the cob
• Grilled sweet potato fries
• Cold Georgia peach iced tea
• Crisp coleslaw