Beer-Braised Onion Burgers with Cheddar

Start with the onions because they take time. Melt butter in a heavy skillet - cast iron if you have it.

Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5-6 minutes until they're soft and starting to look translucent.

Pour in the beer and add the sugar. Let this cook down for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beer is absorbed and the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Set aside. (Don't rush this step - proper caramelized onions are worth the wait)

Heat your grill to high, then you'll turn it down later. In a large bowl, gently combine the beef, garlic, red pepper, remaining beer, mustard, salt, and pepper. (Don't overwork the meat or you'll end up with hockey pucks instead of burgers)

Form into 4 patties about 1 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each - they'll puff up as they cook.

Place patties on the grill and immediately turn heat to medium. Cook 4-6 minutes per side for medium doneness.

In the last minute of cooking, pile the grated cheddar on top of each burger and let it melt slightly.

Serve on toasted buns topped with a generous portion of those beer-braised onions.