Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers Recipe

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Experience the irresistible combination of crispy, caramelized onions and juicy beef patties with this Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger recipe. Originating from Depression-era diners, this burger is packed with flavor, featuring thinly sliced onions pressed into the beef as it cooks. The result? A rich, savory burger with a golden crust and a deep onion flavor that perfectly complements the melted cheese and toasted bun.

Classic Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger

The Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger is a time-honored classic, known for its simple yet genius technique. By smashing thinly sliced onions into the beef patty as it sears, the onions caramelize and infuse their flavor into the meat, creating a burger that’s both crispy and juicy.

Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a backyard cookout, this burger is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors with minimal ingredients. Whether you serve it on a buttery brioche bun or keep it classic with a soft hamburger roll, every bite is packed with nostalgic, comforting goodness.

Ingredients for Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

To achieve the signature flavor and texture of an Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together perfectly for a rich, caramelized taste.

• Ground Beef – Use 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. The fat content helps create a crispy, well-seared patty.
• Onions – Thinly sliced yellow onions are the key to this recipe. They caramelize beautifully while cooking, adding sweetness and depth to the burger.
• Cheese – Classic American cheese melts perfectly over the hot patty, creating a creamy, delicious layer. You can also try cheddar or pepper jack for variation.
• Burger Buns – Soft, toasted buns (such as brioche or potato rolls) complement the crispy, juicy patty without overpowering the flavors.
• Butter or Oil – A little butter or oil helps toast the buns to golden perfection, adding an extra layer of flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasoning enhances the natural beefy flavor without overpowering the onions.

How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

This burger comes together quickly with a few easy steps, ensuring a crispy onion crust and a juicy, flavorful patty.

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Thinly slice the onions using a sharp knife or mandoline. The thinner the onions, the better they caramelize and adhere to the burger patty.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Divide the ground beef into equal portions and shape them into loose balls (around ¼ pound each). Don’t pack them too tightly—this keeps the patties juicy.

Step 3: Smash the Onions into the Patties

Heat a griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place each beef ball on the hot surface, immediately pile a generous amount of onions on top, then use a spatula to press the burger down flat, smashing the onions into the beef. This ensures they fuse together as they cook.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden and Crispy

Let the patties cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Flip carefully, allowing the onions to continue caramelizing.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Toast the Buns

Once flipped, place a slice of cheese over each patty and let it melt while the burger finishes cooking. Meanwhile, toast the burger buns in butter until golden and slightly crisp.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Place each patty on a toasted bun, optionally adding pickles, mustard, or any condiments you prefer. Serve immediately while hot for the best taste and texture.

How Long to Cook Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

Cooking time depends on the thickness of your patties and the heat level, but here’s a general guide to ensure perfectly cooked burgers:

• Thin Patties (Smash Burger Style) – Cook for 2-3 minutes per side on high heat. The onions should caramelize, and the beef should develop a crispy crust.
• Medium Patties – Cook for 4-5 minutes per side over medium-high heat. This allows the onions to soften while keeping the burger juicy.
• Thicker Patties – If you prefer a thicker burger, cook for 5-6 minutes per side on medium heat, ensuring the onions cook thoroughly while the beef remains juicy inside.

Watch for deep caramelization on the onions and a golden-brown crust on the beef to know when your burger is perfectly cooked.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover burgers, you can store and reheat them easily to enjoy later.

• Refrigerator – Place leftover cooked patties in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Freezer – For longer storage, freeze patties in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for the Best Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers

To make sure your burgers turn out perfect every time, here are a few pro tips:

• Slice the Onions Thinly – The thinner the slices, the better they caramelize and fuse into the meat. A mandoline slicer works great for this.
• Use High Heat – Cooking on high heat ensures the onions get crispy and caramelized while the beef forms a flavorful crust.
• Press the Patties Firmly – Smashing the beef into the onions helps them adhere and blend into the patty, creating a deliciously crisp exterior.
• Choose the Right Cheese – American cheese is a classic choice, but cheddar or Swiss work great too. Let it melt completely over the hot patty before serving.
• Toast the Buns – A quick toast on the skillet adds extra flavor and prevents the bun from getting soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, but it won’t develop the same crispy crust as beef. Use a slightly higher fat content for better results.

What’s the best type of onion to use?
Yellow onions are the most traditional choice, but white or sweet onions work well too. Just slice them as thinly as possible.

Can I make these burgers without a griddle?
Absolutely! A cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan works just as well to get that classic crispy crust.

This Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger recipe is simple, delicious, and packed with rich, caramelized flavor. Perfect for any burger lover!

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