These Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are packed with flavor and a bit of crunch! Imagine a juicy beef patty topped with crispy onions, all nestled in a soft bun.
They’re super fun to make and eat—just be ready for some oniony goodness! I love stacking it high with my favorite toppings for an extra tasty bite. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is my favorite for burgers because it balances flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, use 90/10, but you might lose some tenderness. Ground turkey or chicken can also work in a pinch for lighter alternatives.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect here due to their sweetness when cooked. If you prefer something milder, try sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions for a different flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you could use pre-sliced onions.
American Cheese: Classic for burgers, but if you’re not a fan, try cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a kick. For a dairy-free option, there are several vegan cheese brands that melt well and can substitute nicely.
Buns: Regular hamburger buns are fantastic, but whole grain or brioche buns can add a nice touch. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps instead!
How Do You Get the Perfect Seared Burger?
Getting that perfect sear on your burger is key for flavor and texture, and it’s much simpler than it sounds! Here’s how:
- Start by shaping your patties gently; overworking the meat can make them tough.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps prevent bulging while cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if needed to give each patty space to sear properly.
- When you place the patties in the hot skillet, resist the urge to move them around. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3 minutes.
- Press down lightly on the patties after flipping; this helps achieve that beautiful crust.
With these tips, you’ll have juicy and flavorful burgers every time!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (for frying)
- Pickles, lettuce, and other desired toppings (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a total of about 25 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend some time slicing, frying, and grilling, and then you’ll be ready to enjoy your delicious burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by slicing the onion thinly. This will help them cook evenly and caramelize nicely. Once sliced, set them aside while you prepare the beef patties.
2. Shape the Patties:
Next, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Roll each one into a ball and then gently press it into a patty shape. Make sure each patty is slightly larger than the buns because they will shrink while cooking. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Heat the Pan:
In a large skillet or griddle, heat your vegetable oil or butter over medium-high heat. You want it to be nice and hot before you add the ingredients, which helps them cook well.
4. Cook the Onions:
Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté them. Stir occasionally and make sure they cook evenly. You want them to be caramelized and tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the onions from the pan and set them aside.
5. Cook the Burgers:
Now, in the same skillet, place the beef patties. Cook them for about 3 minutes on one side. When it’s time to flip, add a generous amount of the sautéed onions on top of each patty. Press down slightly to help the patties sear and get a nice crust.
6. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you like cheese on your burgers, place a slice on each patty after flipping. Let it melt slightly while the burger finishes cooking. Cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they reach your desired doneness.
7. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, take this time to toast the hamburger buns. You can do this on the grill or in a separate pan until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s time to put your burgers together! Place the cooked patties with onions on the bottom half of the toasted buns. Add any other toppings you love, such as pickles or lettuce. Finish by placing the top half of the bun on each burger.
9. Serve:
Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers immediately while they’re hot and flavorful. They go great with fries or a fresh salad on the side. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for These Burgers?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute like black bean or lentil patties. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, especially for leaner meats like turkey, so adjust accordingly!
What If I Don’t Have Vegetable Oil or Butter?
No problem! You can use any cooking oil such as olive oil or canola oil. Just keep in mind that different oils have different smoke points, so choose one suitable for high heat cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers and onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the burger for about 30-60 seconds, or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Toast your buns again for a fresh taste!
Can I Prep the Onion and Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the onions and shape the patties ahead of time! Store the patties wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You can also slice the onions and store them in an airtight container. This will save you time on the day you plan to cook!
