Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are juicy beef patties topped with crispy fried onions. They bring a delightful crunch that makes each bite super tasty!
You know it’s a good burger when the onions are sticking out from every side! 🍔 I love making these on weekends—they’re quick and a total crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for leaner options, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that they may require additional seasoning for flavor.
Onions: Sweet or yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing as they bring out a wonderful flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, try using shallots or green onions for a milder taste. They can still add good flavor without the strong bite.
Hamburger Buns: Soft buns work best for this recipe, as they soak up the juices. If you’re gluten-free or want a healthier option, whole grain or lettuce wraps can work. Just be aware that texture will differ a bit.
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but feel free to substitute with cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer. For a non-dairy option, vegan cheese can also do the trick.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions is super simple but takes a bit of patience. It’s all about cooking them slowly to develop their sweetness and flavor. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter.
- Add the sliced onions when the oil is hot.
- Stir occasionally and let them cook for 10-15 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- If they start to brown too quickly, just lower the heat! Remember, slow and steady wins this race.
Tasting as you go is key. You’ll notice the flavor transform and it’ll be worth the wait!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft)
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or butter) for frying
- Pickles, ketchup, mustard (optional toppings)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10-15 minutes preparing the onions, 15 minutes to form and cook the burgers, and just a few minutes to assemble everything together. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Onions:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding the vegetable oil (or butter). Once the oil is hot, add your thinly sliced onions. SautĂ© them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nice and caramelized. Once they’re done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
2. Forming the Patties:
While your onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into loose patties. Remember to make them a bit larger than your hamburger buns because they’ll shrink as they cook. Season each side well with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Cooking the Burgers:
In the same skillet you used for the onions, raise the heat to medium-high. Carefully place your burger patties in the skillet. Using a spatula, press down on each patty to flatten them a bit. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes without moving them, or until they get a lovely crust.
4. Adding Onions and Cheese:
Once the burgers have cooked on one side, flip them over to cook the other side. Right after flipping, top each burger with some of the sautéed onions and, if you wish, a slice of American cheese. Allow them to cook for another 3-4 minutes for a medium doneness.
5. Toasting the Buns:
While the burgers are finishing up, take the hamburger buns and place them cut-side down in the same skillet. Toast them for about 1-2 minutes, until they’re golden and crispy.
6. Assembling the Burgers:
Once your burgers are cooked and the cheese is melted, remove them from the skillet. Place the patty and the onion mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add your favorite toppings, like pickles, ketchup, or mustard, then top it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are ready to be served! Enjoy them hot with your favorite side dish like fries or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the meat you choose, and leaner meats may require a bit of added moisture or fat to keep the burgers juicy.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. Just remember that melting times may differ, so keep an eye on the burgers to ensure your cheese is perfectly melted!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet on low heat until heated through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal!
Can I Prepare the Onions Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet before using, and they’ll taste just as delicious!
