Caramelize the Onions - Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they turn soft, golden, and sweet. Don't rush this step proper caramelization builds flavor.
Prepare the Burger Sauce - In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt or sour cream, ketchup, mustard, cane sugar, and dill pickle finely diced with 1 tsp of pickle juice. Season with garlic powder. Taste and adjust - this should be slightly sweet and creamy.
Shape the Patties - In a large bowl mix ground beef with 2 tsp of salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika 1 tsp of each. Along with 2 Tbsp of bread crumbs and 1 medium onion grated. Divide the beef into 5 equal portions. Shape the ground beef with a burger press if you have one, if not gently shape it with your hands.
Cook the Burgers - Throw the patties onto a grill over medium high heat and barbecue until brown and seared well. Avoid overcooking the meat this will keep the burgers tender. Add cheese in the last minute until melted.
Assemble the Burgers - Lightly toast your buns with butter in a frying pan. Place one pattie on the bottom bun and spread burger sauce on it. Next caramelized onions, cucumbers, tomatoes, red pickled onions, sandwich pickles, lettuce, red sliced onions. Spread ketchup and mayonnaise onto the top bun and gently press. Enjoy!
