Mushroom Burger Recipe

Mix and form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix with your hands or a fork until combined—do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form into 2 patties about 3/4 inch thick, pressing a slight indent in the center of each to prevent doming.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil. When hot and shimmering, add the patties. Cook undisturbed 3-4 minutes until a brown crust forms, flip and cook 3-4 more minutes for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese and cover the pan briefly to melt.

Prepare mushrooms and onions

While patties cook, wipe mushrooms clean and slice. Thinly slice the onion and mince garlic.

Sauté

In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook 3-4 minutes until beginning to soften. Add the mushrooms and spread into an even layer. Let cook without stirring for 2 minutes so they brown, then stir and continue cooking 3-4 minutes until mushrooms release moisture and begin to caramelize.

Finish

Add 1 minced garlic clove and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Season with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper. If the pan is dry or bits are stuck, add 2 tablespoons beef or mushroom broth and scrape up browned bits. Cook until liquid evaporates and mixture is glossy. Keep warm until assembly.

Toast buns

Split the burger buns and spread a thin layer of butter on cut sides. Toast in a dry skillet or on a grill over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden.

Assemble burgers

Place optional lettuce and tomato on the bottom bun, add the cheesy burger patty, then pile the sautéed mushrooms and onions on top of the cheese so they stick. Add condiments as desired and finish with the top bun.

Serve

Serve immediately while hot. If making ahead, keep patties and mushrooms warm separately and assemble just before serving.