Kitchen Divas

  • Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Work With Us
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Contact
  • Work With Us
  • Subscribe
    • Bloglovin
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipes
    • About
    • Contact
    • Work With Us
    • Subscribe
    • Bloglovin
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Main Courses

    McDonald's Grilled Onion Cheddar Burger

    Published: Feb 18, 2023 · Modified: Mar 20, 2023 by Karin and Ken · This post may contain affiliate links. 6 Comments

    Share55
    Pin
    Post
    Email
    Share
    79Shares
    79Shares
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    This copycat McDonald's Grilled Onion Cheddar Burger features sweet caramelized onions, sharp and creamy white cheddar, and a juicy beef patty loaded up onto a toasted bun. If you’re nostalgic for this discontinued fan favorite, this quick and easy homemade version is sure to scratch your savory itch!

    Closeup shot of copycat McDonald's grilled onion cheddar burger on plate.

    One of the best things McDonald's ever put on their menu was the grilled onion cheddar burger. It was a perfect balance of juicy meat, tender grilled alliums, and melty cheese on a burger bun. Unfortunately, it was discontinued, and I don’t think it won't be coming back.

    But, not all hope is lost because I have a recipe for the classic that so many of us loved. This cheeseburger is just as good — if not better than —the original, and it's so easy to make.

    Grilled Onion Cheddar Burger Recipe

    When Ken and I discovered we could make our own (healthier) Big Macs at home, it was like a lightbulb went off — if we could so closely tackle the signature McDonald’s menu item, why not strive for even more?!? So far we’ve also nailed their cookie recipe and their buffalo sauce. 

    This deliciously savory recipe for onion burgers was born of our deep love of the discontinued menu item, and we couldn’t be happier with it. These charbroiled beauties are proof that takeout fakeouts are often better than the originals.  

    FYI, it pairs beautifully with these delicious sweet potato fries (which Mickey D’s still doesn’t carry). 😉

    Why You Will Love This Recipe

    • It only uses only 8 simple ingredients. Not to brag, but not even McDonald’s french fries have that short of an ingredient list!
    • This delicious burger recipe is super easy, taking just 20 minutes to make from start to finish. 
    • It tastes just like the McDonald's original, without all the weird preservatives and artificial ingredients.

    Ingredients & Substitutions 

    You'll only need a handful of ingredients to make these flavorful onion burgers, all of which can be easily found at your local grocery store.

    The major ingredients are below. Be sure to check out the recipe card at the end of the post for the full ingredient list and exact quantities.

    Overhead shot of individual grilled onion cheddar hamburger ingredients on table.
    • Ground Beef - We prefer using an 80/20 or 85/15 mix, which means it's an 80% lean cut with 20% fat (or 85% lean cut with 15% fat). This will give you a juicier burger without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to swap in ground pork, turkey, chicken, sausage, or a plant-based alternative instead.
    • Butter - Butter makes everything better, including caramelized onion for burgers. You’re also welcometo use olive oil, coconut oil, or avocado oil instead.
    • Yellow Onions - While yellow onions are traditional, you can easily swap in sweet, white, or red (purple) onions instead.
    • Sugar - A touch of extra sugar helps to create a beautifully golden color on your onions. Instead of refined sugar, you can also use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar. 
    • White Cheddar Cheese - Since we were going for the look and taste of the OG McDonald’s grilled onion burger, we went for white cheddar. Feel free to use your favorite melty sliced cheese instead.
    • Hamburger Buns - We used basic hamburger buns, but feel free to use sesame buns. You can also use brioche, whole wheat, cheese buns, or gluten-free buns. Alternatively,  use portobello mushroom caps or multiple leaves of iceberg lettuce as a low-carb option.

    Optional Variations & Dietary Adaptations

    As much as we love this McDonald’s-style onion burgers recipe just the way it’s written, there’s plenty of room for you to make your own stamp on it. Here are some variations worth considering:

    • Dairy-Free - Swap in your favorite vegan cheese and use plant-based butter or oil.
    • Vegan - Try using a vegan ground beef alternative like Impossible or Beyond Meat, then follow the above instructions to also make it dairy-free.
    • Gluten-Free - Use your favorite GF buns, or swap in a low-carb alternative like lettuce or grilled mushrooms.
    • Low-Carb - Rather than making your grilled onion cheddar burger Mcdonalds-style, take a page from the In-n-Out playbook and use lettuce leaves to make it “protein-style.” You can also double down on the meaty, umami flavor by swapping in grilled portobello caps as your bun. 
    • Salt-Free - Use garlic powder, basil, oregano, thyme or rosemary, cumin, and paprika for seasoning instead of salt and pepper if you're looking to add flavor but not salt. You can also try adding garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, or onion powder. You can also get creative with different herbs like oregano, thyme, parsley, or basil. Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-made burger seasoning blend which contains a combination of these spices and more.
    • Spicy - Add a teaspoon of chili pepper flakes, jalapeno powder, smoked jalapeno powder, or chipotle powder to the beef or onion mixture to imbue heat into the dish. I will also occasionally add a teaspoon of our homemade hot pepper sauce (feel free to use your favorite hot sauce) to the onion mixture.

    How To Make McDonald’s Grilled Onion Cheddar Burgers

    These oniony cheeseburgers come together in a flash. It only takes a few steps, and I’d bet it's nothing you haven't done before.

    The overview is below, but you'll find the complete instructions in the recipe card at the end of the post.

    Step 1: Caramelize Onions. Cook the sliced onions, butter, sugar, salt, and pepper in a covered skillet until tender.

    Closeup shot of sliced onions on cutting board.
    Onions, butter, salt, and pepper in skillet.

    Step 2: Make Burger Patties. Mix the ground beef, salt, and pepper and form into 4 equal patties. 

    Overhead shot of ground beef in mixing bowl with salt and pepper.
    Closeup shot of hand holding a hamburger patty seasoned with salt and pepper.

    Step 3: Cook the patties over medium heat (either on a grill pan inside, or on the grill outside if weather permits) until cooked to at least 145F. HINT: Add a divot to the center of your patties using your thumb — this helps to prevent them from shrinking during cooking.

    Overhead shot of hamburger patties in skillet.
    Closeup overhead shot of hamburger patty in skillet with a divot in the middle to prevent shrinking.

    Step 4: Add Cheddar. When the burgers are done, add a slice of cheese to each and let melt. 

    Overhead shot of cooked burgers in skillet.
    Overhead shot of burgers topped with cheese in skillet before it's melted.

    Step 5: Assemble & Serve. Add a cheddar burger to each bun, top with onions, and then top with the other half of the bun. Enjoy!

    Overhead shot of caramelized onions in skillet.
    Closeup shot of copycat McDonald's grilled onion cheddar burger with no top bun on a white plate.

    Storage Instructions

    Refrigerator: Store leftover onions and patties in separate air-tight containers for up to 4 days.

    Freezer: Store leftover onions and patties in separate air-tight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

    Reheat: Place the burgers and onions in a baking dish with a little water. Then, cover and bake at 350 until heated through.

    Make Ahead: Burgers can be reheated, but they're always the best when they're freshly made. I don't recommend making these ahead of time unless you absolutely have to. That said, you’re welcome to caramelize the onions ahead of time and shape the burger patties to help you cut down on prep. (Use parchment paper to keep the patties separate in the fridge.)

    Closeup shot of copycat McDonald's grilled onion cheddar burger on plate.

    Serving Suggestions

    These grilled onion cheeseburgers are delicious with your favorite sides like french fries, baked potatoes, mac and cheese, coleslaw, and all of your other backyard bash favorites.

    As far as toppings, we think these cheesy grilled onion burgers are perfect as is. If you want to “beef” them up (HA) consider trying:

    • Lettuce
    • Tomato
    • Pickles
    • Candied Bacon, Glazed Bacon or plain old regular bacon
    • Avocado
    • Fried egg
    • Ketchup
    • Honey Mustard Mayo, Healthy Honey Mustard or your favorite mustard
    • Chipotle Mayo, Garlic Mayo, Spicy Mayo or regular mayonaise
    • Guacamole or Smoked Guacamole

    Expert Tips

    • Use high-quality ground beef (preferably grass-fed and organic). It should be bright red, without odor or discoloration, for the juiciest, most flavorful burger.
    • Make sure to use thinly sliced onions cooked slowly over low heat for the perfect caramelized onions.
    • Pop your onions in the freezer for 10 minutes before slicing to help prevent your eyes from watering.
    • Preheat the grill before cleaning and oiling your grates or adding burgers to avoid sticking and uneven cooking times.
    • The grill is hot enough when you can place your hand five inches above the grate surface and hold it there for 2 or 3 seconds.

    Top Tip:

    Be sure to stir your onions often while you cook them to prevent burning.

    FAQ

    How do I know my grill is hot enough to add the burgers?

    Preheat your grill for 5 minutes. Once you can hold your hand five inches above the grill or grate comfortably for 2 or 3 seconds, add the burgers.

    What types of oil should I use for grilling my burgers?

    Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like avocado, peanut, canola, sunflower, or grapeseed.

    How do I make sure my patties are cooked all the way through?

    The key to ensuring patties are cooked all the way through is to use a meat thermometer — this will allow you to quickly identify when each patty has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) which indicates that it’s well done and fully cooked.

    Closeup shot of copycat McDonald's grilled onion cheddar burger on plate.

    More Hamburger Recipes

    Do you like hamburgers? Here are some recipes you may also like to try

    • Pork burger cut in half in a brown paper container with fries.
      Best Ground Pork Burgers
    • A plate with old fashioned salisbury steak with mashed potatoes and broccoli.
      Old Fashioned Salisbury Steak
    • How to Cook Hamburgers in Air Fryer
      How to Cook Hamburgers in Air Fryer
    • Hamburger steak with onion and mushroom gravy on a plate with mashed potatoes and broccoli.
      Smothered Hamburger Steaks with Onion Gravy

    Copycat McDonald's Grilled Onion Cheddar Burger

    Karin and Ken
    This copycat McDonald's Grilled Onion Cheddar Burger features sweet caramelized onions, sharp and creamy white cheddar, and a juicy beef patty loaded up onto a toasted bun. If you’re nostalgic for this discontinued fan favorite, this quick and easy homemade version is sure to scratch your savory itch!
    5 from 3 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 20 minutes mins
    Course lunch, Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4
    Calories 704 kcal

    Equipment

    • Measuring cups and spoons
    • large skillet
    • wooden spoon
    • mixing bowl
    • spatula
    • paper towel

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 ½ lbs ground beef
    • 1 ½ teaspoon salt divided
    • ¾ teaspoon pepper divided
    • 4 oz butter
    • 2 medium yellow onions peeled and chopped
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 4 slices white cheddar cheese
    • 4 hamburger buns
    Get Recipe Ingredients

    Instructions
     

    • Place sliced onions, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper, butter, and sugar in a medium skillet over medium heat and cover.
    • Allow onions to cook slowly, stirring often.
    • As they cook, the moisture will reduce and the onions will become tender. It is important to stir often to be sure the onions do not burn. When onions are tender, remove them from heat.
    • In a medium mixing bowl, mix ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper together. Split into four equal parts and form four thin patties.
    • Place patties in a greased skillet and cook 3-4 minutes over medium heat on each side or until cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 160ºF.
    • Add a slice of cheese to each hot burger and allow them to melt.
    • Place patties on paper towel so grease drains off.
    • Place one cheddar burger patty on each bun, covering each with ¼ of the carmelized onions.
    • Serve and enjoy.

    Notes

    Expert Tips
    • Use high-quality ground beef that is bright red, without odor or discoloration, for a more juicy, flavorful burger.
    • Make sure to use thinly sliced onions cooked slowly over low heat for the perfect caramelized onions.
    • Pop your onions in the freezer for 10 minutes before slicing to help prevent your eyes from watering.
    • Preheat the grill before cleaning and oiling your grates or adding burgers to avoid sticking and uneven cooking times.
    • The grill is hot enough when you can place your hand five inches above the grate surface and hold it there for 2 or 3 seconds.
    Optional Variations:
    • Dairy-Free - Swap in your favorite vegan cheese and use plant-based butter or oil.
    • Vegan - Try using a vegan ground beef alternative like Impossible or Beyond Meat, then follow the above instructions to also make it dairy-free.
    • Gluten-Free - Use your favorite GF buns, or swap in a low-carb alternative like lettuce or grilled mushrooms.
    • Low-Carb - Rather than making your grilled onion cheddar burger Mcdonalds-style, take a page from the In-n-Out playbook and use lettuce leaves to make it “protein-style.” You can also double down on the meaty, umami flavor by swapping in grilled portobello caps as your bun. 
    • Salt-Free - Use garlic powder, basil, oregano, thyme or rosemary, cumin, and paprika for seasoning instead of salt and pepper if you're looking to add flavor but not salt. You can also try adding garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, or onion powder. You can also get creative with different herbs like oregano, thyme, parsley, or basil. Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-made burger seasoning blend which contains a combination of these spices and more.
    • Spicy - Add a teaspoon of chili pepper flakes, jalapeno powder, smoked jalapeno powder, or chipotle powder to the beef or onion mixture to imbue heat into the dish. I will also occasionally add a teaspoon of our homemade hot pepper sauce (feel free to use your favorite hot sauce) to the onion mixture.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 704kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 41gFat: 68gSaturated Fat: 33gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 23gTrans Fat: 3gCholesterol: 210mgSodium: 1566mgPotassium: 626mgFiber: 2gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 993IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 312mgIron: 5mg
    Keyword best burger, burger, mcdonald's burger
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
    closeup shot of a copycat mcdonald's grilled onion cheddar burger on a white plate.
    Share55
    Pin
    Post
    Email
    Share
    79Shares
    79Shares

    More Main Courses

    • Chicken club sandwich cut in half.
      Chicken Club Sandwich
    • Two McDonald's biscuits and gravy over the top on a plate.
      McDonald's Biscuits and Gravy
    • A small bite of Mexican chicken and rice on a fork.
      Mexican Chicken and Rice
    • A piece of air fryer tilapia with seasonings on top.
      Air Fryer Tilapia

    Comments

    1. Amanda says

      February 19, 2023 at 4:28 am

      5 stars
      What a burger. I cooked my onions longer and added tomato and ketchup THIS BURGER WAS THE BEST. It’s so much better than the original Thx KD for sharing another great recipe. We love it.

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 19, 2023 at 4:58 am

        My husband cooks his onions longer too! They’re still tasty! I love ketchup and tomato myself but I also add onion and mayo too! I’m glad you’re enjoying these burgers as much as we do. All the best. Karin

    2. Kylie says

      February 19, 2023 at 4:25 am

      5 stars
      I’m so glad we found this recipe! WE LOVE IT. Thank you for sharing it. We love your recipes but this one is extra special We used to love these burgers and have missed them. Your recipe is even better than we remember the original So good. ❤️

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 19, 2023 at 4:54 am

        I’m glad you found it too! I’m so happy you’re enjoying the recipe. We love it too. All the best. Karin

    3. Cara says

      February 18, 2023 at 10:37 pm

      5 stars
      I remember loving these burgers from McDonald’s and being so upset when they stopped making them Thank you for this recipe I think yours are definitely better than the original but still the same so my craving has been satisfied and I THANK YOU We will definitely be making these burgers again You’re the best Keep up the great work We love you ❤️

      Reply
      • Karin and Ken says

        February 19, 2023 at 2:31 am

        That’s exactly why we published this recipe. We felt it was good enough to satisfy any burger cravings! I’m glad you enjoyed them. We make them regularly here and likely always will. Thank you for taking the time to comment and let me know. All the best. Karin

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating





    Welcome!

    We are the kitchen divas: Karin and my partner in life, Ken.

    We have been attached at the heart and hip since the first day we met, and we love to create new dishes to keep things interesting. Variety is definitely the spice of life!

    More about us

    Most Popular Recipes!

    • A fork holding pieces steak in crockpot next to mashed potatoes on a white plate, garnished with chopped herbs.
      Ribeye Steak in Crockpot
    • Air Fryer Haddock
    • A slice with a fork in it.
      Easy Hobo Casserole
    • A rack of beef ribs in the oven on a piece of parchment brushed with bbq sauce.
      The Best Beef Ribs Recipe

    Discover More Dinner Recipes ➡️

    Summer Favorites

    • A slice of cherry cream cheese pie on a plate.
      Cherry Cream Cheese Pie (No Bake)
    • A banana pudding cup topped with whipped cream, banana slice and small cookie.
      Easy No Bake Banana Pudding Cups
    • Red and green decorated rice krispie cookies next to a carafe of milk on a piece of parchment paper.
      Easy Rice Krispie Cookies (No Bake)
    • A stack of Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Bars on a plate.
      Easy No Bake Peanut Butter Bars

    More Easter Sweet Treats and Side Dishes ➡️

    Footer

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Work With Us

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Kitchen Divas All Rights Reserved