Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Caramelize the Onions
- Melt butter with olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and salt, stirring to coat. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until onions are deep golden brown and jammy. If they start to stick, splash in a tablespoon of water. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Reserve 3 tablespoons for the aioli.
Make the Aioli
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons finely chopped caramelized onions, garlic, Dijon, lemon juice, and Worcestershire. Stir until smooth. Taste and adjust with more lemon or salt if needed. Set aside or refrigerate up to 3 days.
Cook the Beef
- Heat the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into large chunks. Let it sear undisturbed for 3 minutes to develop a crust, then break into smaller pieces and continue cooking until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes total. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
Assemble the Bowls
- Divide lettuce among 4 bowls. Top with warm beef, remaining caramelized onions, tomatoes, pickles, and cheese. Drizzle generously with aioli and serve immediately with extra aioli on the side.
Notes
Make the caramelized onions and aioli up to 3 days ahead - the flavors actually improve overnight. Swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based crumble; just bump up the oil since they're leaner. For a pub-style twist, add crispy bacon bits or a fried egg on top.
