If you’re searching for a burger that’s absolutely bursting with flavor, look no further than these Halloumi Burgers with Portobello, Chèvre & Caramelized Onions. This combination hits all the right notes: rich, savory mushrooms, creamy chèvre, irresistibly sweet caramelized onions, and golden, squeaky halloumi cheese stacked high on a toasty bun. An unforgettable medley of textures and tastes, this burger is certain to elevate your next mealtime gathering.

Chèvre & Caramelized Onions Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Halloumi Burger with Chèvre & Caramelized Onions is just how a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients can turn into pure magic. Each element contributes its own personality—sweetness, tang, earthiness, creaminess—so don’t skip out on any!

Butter: Helps the onions soften and caramelize into a sweet, golden tangle.
Vegetable oil: Prevents the butter from burning so your onions cook slowly and evenly.
Red onion: Adds a pop of color and a lovely natural sweetness when caramelized.
Balsamic vinegar: Brings a tangy complexity to balance the sweet onions.
Sugar: Helps those onions caramelize to perfection—don’t skip!
Dried thyme: Offers herbaceous depth and a hint of rustic earthiness.
Portobello mushrooms: Meaty, juicy mushrooms that become irresistible when seared deeply.
Salt and pepper: The essential flavor builders—season every layer well.
Halloumi cheese: Delivers an oozy, golden, slightly tangy element you’ll crave in every bite.
Chèvre cheese: This creamy goat cheese brings brightness and a tantalizing tang—the star of the Chèvre & Caramelized Onions duo.
Ripe avocado: Rich and buttery, making a quick guacamole for lush creaminess.
Lemon juice: Lifts the avocado mash and adds just the right touch of acidity.
Arugula: Adds a fresh, peppery green contrast that lightens each bite.
Hamburger buns: The sturdy (yet fluffy) vehicle for all these gorgeous layers.

How to Make Chèvre & Caramelized Onions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating a small frying pan over medium heat, and add both the butter and vegetable oil. When the butter is completely melted and sizzling gently, toss in the thinly sliced red onions. Let them cook slowly for a good 5 minutes; patience here pays off! You want them soft and just beginning to turn golden, but not yet brown.

Step 2: Add Balsamic and Sugar for Flavor

Once the onions have softened, stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar. These two ingredients transform humble onions into something almost jam-like—sticky, sweet, and deeply flavorful. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for another 5 minutes or so, until the mixture becomes glossy and deliciously caramelized.

Step 3: Finish with Herbs

Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle in the dried thyme. The heat wakes up the dried herbs, infusing their aroma right into those jammy onions. Set these beauties aside; they’ll be the crowning glory of your Chèvre & Caramelized Onions creation.

Step 4: Sear the Portobello Mushrooms

Wipe away any dirt from your portobello mushrooms and give them a seasonal sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. In a dry pan over medium-high heat (a grill pan gives extra charred flavor), place the mushrooms stem side down. Sear for 6 to 7 minutes, gently pressing with a spatula for maximum surface caramelization.

Step 5: Grill the Halloumi and Finish the Mushrooms

Add the sliced halloumi to the pan, then flip the mushrooms to cook the other side for about 6 to 7 minutes. The mushrooms should brown and soften, and soon you’ll see a little moisture bubbling up on top. Flip the halloumi after about 3 minutes for even browning. Once golden all over, remove both from the pan.

Step 6: Add the Chèvre Cheese

While the mushrooms are hot, crumble the chèvre cheese generously over each cap. The gentle heat will ever-so-slightly melt the chèvre, marrying it beautifully with the mushrooms and tying together the Chèvre & Caramelized Onions element.

Step 7: Make the Avocado Sauce

In a shallow bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth, then stir in fresh lemon juice, a bit of salt, and black pepper. Taste and add more lemon or seasoning if you like. This creamy avocado layer brings freshness and contrast.

Step 8: Toast the Buns

Heat a clean pan over medium-high. Place your buns with the outside facing down, searing them for 30 seconds before flipping; both sides should be warm with slight crisp edges. This step keeps your burgers from getting soggy and adds an irresistible texture.

Step 9: Assemble the Burgers

Time for the best part! Spread a luscious layer of avocado sauce on the bottom bun, followed by a small pile of arugula. Add a slice of golden, squeaky halloumi, top with your chèvre-topped portobello, then heap on the glorious caramelized onions. Crown with the top bun and press gently—your Chèvre & Caramelized Onions burger is ready to steal the show!

How to Serve Chèvre & Caramelized Onions

Garnishes

A scatter of chopped fresh chives or parsley over the finished burger brings vibrant color and a delicate herby note that pairs beautifully with the Chèvre & Caramelized Onions. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a touch more balsamic glaze ups the gourmet factor even more.

Side Dishes

Serve your burger with golden sweet potato fries, a crisp fennel and apple slaw, or even a handful of kettle chips. A fresh, zippy side salad with lemony vinaigrette is another fantastic match, balancing the richness of the Chèvre & Caramelized Onions filling. Keep things simple—these burgers are the main event!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd, consider building mini versions as sliders to show off the Chèvre & Caramelized Onions at your next party. Or, skip the buns and assemble everything atop grilled sourdough slices for a knife-and-fork open-faced delight. For a brunch twist, add a fried egg for extra richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have cooked mushrooms, caramelized onions, or any leftover Chèvre & Caramelized Onions mixture, keep them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Wait to assemble the burgers until just before serving to keep textures at their best.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy these fresh, both the caramelized onions and portobello mushrooms (without the chèvre) freeze well for up to a month. Place portions in single layers, wrap tightly, and thaw overnight in the fridge. Halloumi cheese can also be frozen, but the texture may change slightly after thawing.

Reheating

Gently reheat caramelized onions and mushrooms in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen. Warm halloumi in the same pan, flipping once; it’s crucial not to overheat the cheese or it can become tough. Assemble with fresh avocado and buns for best results!

FAQs

Can I make Chèvre & Caramelized Onions burgers vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the halloumi for a vegan cheese alternative and use a plant-based butter and chèvre for the onions. Check your buns to ensure they’re vegan, and the rest of the recipe can follow as written.

What makes caramelized onions so delicious in this recipe?

Caramelized onions bring a deep sweetness and a savory richness that perfectly balances the tangy chèvre and salty halloumi—essential to making Chèvre & Caramelized Onions the star of this burger!

Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes! Both the caramelized onions and portobello mushrooms can be cooked in advance. Reheat gently before assembling with fresh avocado and halloumi for a stress-free mealtime.

What other breads work instead of classic hamburger buns?

Brioche, ciabatta rolls, or even focaccia make fabulous bases for these burgers and soak up all the juicy goodness from the Chèvre & Caramelized Onions topping.

Is there a good substitute for halloumi if I can’t find it?

If halloumi is unavailable, try pan-frying slices of paneer or even thick slabs of feta—both work well with the bold flavors of Chèvre & Caramelized Onions, though the texture will vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is one you’ll come back to any time you want a meal that’s both a little indulgent and incredibly satisfying. With every bite of Chèvre & Caramelized Onions, you’ll discover new flavors and textures that make this burger a true standout. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this special creation—you’re in for a seriously delicious ride!

Chèvre & Caramelized Onions Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 16 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Halloumi Burgers with Portobello, Chèvre & Caramelized Onions are a delicious and flavorful vegetarian option for burger lovers. The combination of savory portobello mushrooms, crispy halloumi cheese, tangy chèvre, and sweet caramelized onions makes for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

Caramelized Onions – Heat butter and oil in a frying pan. Add sliced red onion and cook until softened. Add balsamic vinegar and sugar, cook until sticky. Mix in dried thyme.
Portobello & Halloumi – Season portobello mushrooms with salt and pepper. Cook in a hot pan, then add halloumi slices. When cooked, top with chèvre cheese.
Avocado Sauce – Mash avocado in a bowl, add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
To Serve – Sear hamburger buns in a pan. Assemble burgers with avocado mash, arugula, halloumi, portobello mushroom with chèvre, caramelized onions, and top bun. Serve hot.

Notes

You can customize these burgers with your favorite toppings like sliced tomatoes or hot sauce.
Make sure to adjust seasoning to your taste preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-frying, Grilling
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 burger
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 920mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Halloumi Burgers, Vegetarian Burgers, Portobello Mushroom, Caramelized Onions, Chèvre Cheese