Get ready for a taste of Oklahoma with these delicious fried onion burgers! Juicy beef patties are piled high with crispy, golden onions that add an awesome crunch.
These burgers are fun to make and even better to eat! I love how the flavors all come together—perfect for a backyard cookout. Just don’t forget the napkins! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives a great balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works but may be less juicy. Veggie burgers or ground turkey are good alternatives if you want something lighter.
Onions: A large yellow onion is perfect for caramelizing. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use sweet onions, like Vidalia. Red onions also work, but they’ll give a slightly different taste.
Cheese: American cheese is a classic choice. However, you can substitute with cheddar, Swiss, or provolone for a different flavor. If you’re vegetarian, omit the cheese or use a plant-based version.
Hamburger Buns: While regular burger buns are great, you can customize by using brioche or whole grain buns for more texture and flavor. Gluten-free buns are also a good option if needed.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions requires patience, but the reward is worth it! Start by properly slicing your onions thinly to ensure even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add your onions and stir them occasionally. Keep the heat steady – too high can burn them.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown. This slow cooking lets their natural sweetness shine through.
Feel free to adjust the timing based on your preference for caramelization. The deeper the color, the richer the flavor!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Mustard (optional, for serving)
- Pickles (optional, for serving)
For the Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend most of your time caramelizing the onions and cooking the burgers, but trust me, the results are worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Stir them occasionally and cook until they turn caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Shape the Patties:
While your onions are cooking, divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, making sure they’re slightly larger than your hamburger buns since they will shrink while cooking.
3. Cook the Burgers:
In the same skillet that you used for the onions, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Place the patties in the skillet, and season them with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Smash and Flavor:
Grab a spatula and gently smash each patty down flat against the skillet. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side until they develop a nice, crispy crust.
5. Add Onions:
Once the patties are nicely seared, generously top each one with the caramelized onions. If you like cheese, now’s the time to add a slice on top of the onions.
6. Finish Cooking:
Press the onions into the patties gently, then cover the skillet with a lid for about a minute. This will help the cheese melt and the burgers cook through for that perfect bite.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
If you like, toast the hamburger buns to add a little crunch. Put the cooked patties with onions on the bottom half of each bun. Feel free to add mustard and pickles, then cover with the top half of the bun.
8. Serve:
Serve your mouth-watering Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers hot, alongside your favorite sides like crispy fries or a refreshing salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef! However, keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a bit of oil or a tablespoon of mayonnaise to keep the patties moist. Cook them slightly longer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, covered, to warm them through without drying out. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but they may become a bit soggy.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them in a skillet over medium heat before adding them to the burgers so they are warm and flavorful.
What’s the Best Way to Prevent the Patties from Sticking?
To prevent sticking, make sure the skillet is well-heated and lightly oiled before adding the patties. Additionally, avoid moving them too soon while they sear; give them time to create a nice crust before flipping. Using a non-stick skillet can also help!
