July 7, 2026 · 10 min

Juicy Monterey Jack Burgers with Balsamic Onion Jam and Oven Fries

Side Dish10 min1805 cal / serving

There are countless burger recipes out there, but this one stands out thanks to oozy, melty Monterey Jack cheese and jammy balsamic onions. The patty is juicy and perfectly seasoned, while the sweet-tangy onion jam and creamy garlic mayo take it over the top. And because no burger is complete without sides, we’re serving it with crispy oven-baked potato wedges and tender asparagus.

This recipe is designed for home cooks who want a satisfying, flavorful meal without complicated steps. The onion jam comes together quickly, the patties cook in minutes and the fries roast alongside everything else. It’s a complete dinner that feels special but is totally doable on a weeknight.


Recipe details

Side Dish10 min1805 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories1805 kcalProtein37.8 gFat132.8 gCarbs111.8 gSugar76.5 gFiber3.7 gSodium1997 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: noLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: containsMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: containsSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Fry Seasoning0.5 tablespoon Fry SeasoningView ingredient guide
Potatoesounce PotatoesView ingredient guide
Onion1 unit OnionView ingredient guide
Balsamic Vinegar5 teaspoon Balsamic VinegarView ingredient guide
Asparagus6 ounce AsparagusView ingredient guide
Ground Beef10 ounce Ground BeefView ingredient guide
Garlic0.5 clove GarlicView ingredient guide
Ketchup1 unit KetchupView ingredient guide
Monterey Jack Cheese0.5 cup Monterey Jack CheeseView ingredient guide
Potato Buns2 unit Potato BunsView ingredient guide
Chosen Foods Mayo1 unit Chosen Foods MayoView ingredient guide
Sugar1 teaspoon (tsp) SugarView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide
Saltteaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Adjust rack to top position and preheat oven to 425°F. Wash and dry produce. Cut potatoes into ½-inch-thick wedges. Halve, peel and thinly slice onion. Peel and mince or grate half the garlic (all for 4 servings).
  2. Toss potatoes on a baking sheet with a drizzle of oil, half the Fry Seasoning (all for 4 servings), salt and pepper. Roast on top rack until browned and crispy, 20-25 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and softened, 8-10 minutes. (If onion begins to brown too quickly, add a splash of water.) Stir in vinegar and 1 tsp sugar (2 tsp for 4 servings). Continue cooking until onion is caramelized and jammy, 2-3 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper. Turn off heat; transfer to a small bowl. Wash out pan.
  4. In a second small bowl, combine mayo with a pinch of garlic (taste and add more from there if desired). Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Form beef into two patties (four patties for 4 servings), each slightly wider than a burger bun. Season all over with salt and pepper. Heat a drizzle of oil in pan used for onion over medium-high heat. Add patties; cook to desired doneness, 3-5 minutes per side. In the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, top each patty with Monterey Jack; cover pan to melt cheese.
  6. Halve buns and toast until golden. Spread bottom buns with ketchup. Spread top buns with garlic mayo to taste. Fill with patties and as much onion jam as you like. Serve with potato wedges on the side.

Recipe Tips

For extra crispy fries, spread potatoes in a single layer and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.

If you prefer a milder garlic mayo, start with just a pinch of garlic and adjust to taste.

Let the patties rest for a minute after cooking to keep them juicy.

FAQ

Can I use a different cheese instead of Monterey Jack?

Yes, you can substitute with provolone, mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.

How do I make the onion jam ahead of time?

The onion jam can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

Can I grill the burgers instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Cook the patties on a preheated grill over medium-high heat for the same amount of time, adding cheese in the last minute.

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