These Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a tasty treat! They bring a juicy beef patty topped with crispy, golden onions that add great flavor and crunch to every bite.
Making these burgers is so much fun! I love how the onions get all caramelized while cooking. Trust me; you won’t be able to resist sneaking a few before they hit the bun! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The recipe calls for an 80/20 blend, which has enough fat to keep the burgers juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 85/15. For a non-beef approach, ground turkey or plant-based burger substitutes work well too!
Onions: You’ll need two large onions, preferably yellow for their sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onions, consider sautéed mushrooms or even roasted bell peppers as alternatives. Both add great flavor with a different twist!
Hamburger Buns: Soft, toasted buns are ideal here. You could use whole wheat or brioche for a different texture. For gluten-free diets, gluten-free buns are widely available and work just fine!
Cheese: American cheese melts wonderfully, but if you prefer something different, cheddar or Swiss can add unique flavors. Dairy-free cheese options are available for those with lactose intolerance or allergies.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is key for great flavor. It’s important to go low and slow—don’t rush it! Here’s how you can get amazing caramelized onions:
- Heat your skillet to medium and add butter or oil. Let it warm up before adding the onions.
- Add sliced onions and stir them occasionally. They should be soft and start to brown after about 15-20 minutes.
- If they begin to stick, lower the heat slightly to prevent burning. You can also sprinkle a little salt to help draw out moisture.
Just remember, patience is key here! The longer you take, the sweeter and more richly flavored your onions will become.
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably soft, toasted)
- 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30-35 minutes total. You’ll need about 20 minutes to cook the onions and form the patties, and then about 10-15 minutes to cook the burgers and assemble everything. It’s a fun and delicious meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir them around occasionally. Cook until they turn caramelized and golden brown, which will take about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re ready, set them aside for later.
2. Form the Patties:
While your onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a loose patty. Make sure they are slightly larger than the diameter of your hamburger buns, as they will shrink a bit when cooked.
3. Cook the Patties:
Switch the heat to high and add the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter to the skillet. Carefully place the beef patties into the hot skillet. Season each one with a little salt and pepper. Using a spatula, press down firmly on each patty to flatten them out while cooking—they should sizzle right away!
4. Add the Onions:
After cooking the patties for about 1-2 minutes, take your caramelized onions and place a portion on top of each patty. Press the onions into the patties gently with the spatula to help them infuse their flavor. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the burgers reach your preferred level of doneness.
5. Melt the Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheese, now’s the time! Place a slice of American cheese on each burger during the last minute of cooking. It will melt perfectly and make your burgers extra tasty.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
If you’d like, lightly toast your hamburger buns. Then, take the bottom half of each bun and place a burger patty with the delicious onions on top. Finish it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are now ready! Serve them hot with any condiments or sides you enjoy. Dig in and enjoy every bite of this hearty meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are traditional for their sweetness, you can also use sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that different onions may alter the overall taste of your burgers.
What Can I Use Instead of American Cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, feel free to swap in cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. Just add the cheese during the last minute of cooking to ensure it melts nicely. Each type of cheese will give your burger a unique flavor, so choose one that you love!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quicker option. You can reassemble them with fresh buns if desired!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance. Form them and place parchment paper between each patty, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw any frozen patties in the fridge overnight before cooking for best results.
