These Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a fun twist on the classic burger! Juicy beef patties are topped with crispy, golden fried onions that give each bite a tasty crunch.
They’re super easy to make and are perfect for BBQs or just a cozy night in. I love piling on the toppings! You can’t go wrong with a little cheese and some pickles—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you prefer leaner meat, go for a 90/10 blend, but keep in mind it may be less juicy. You can also try ground turkey or plant-based options for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Onions: Yellow onions are ideal for sweetness and caramelization. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try using white onions for a milder taste or sweet onions like Vidalia for an extra sweet punch.
Buns: Brioche buns add a lovely richness, but any soft white bun will work. Whole grain or sesame buns are great alternatives if you want something a bit heartier or healthier.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic burger feel. If you’d like to switch it up, cheddar or pepper jack can add more flavor, or skip cheese entirely for dairy-free burgers!
How to Caramelize Onions Just Right?
Caramelizing onions really brings out their natural sweetness, which is key for these burgers. Here’s how to do it well:
- Heat your pan over medium heat and add oil or butter.
- Add the onions and sprinkle a pinch of salt; this helps them soften.
- Stir occasionally and be patient! Cook for about 15-20 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat and keep stirring.
It might take some time, but the flavor is absolutely worth it!
What’s the Best Way to Form Burger Patties?
Getting the patties right is key for perfectly cooked burgers. Here’s how to do it:
- Divide your ground beef into 4 equal pieces.
- Gently shape each piece into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Make a small indentation in the center; this reduces puffing during cooking.
- Don’t overwork the meat; just shape it enough to hold together!
This technique helps your burgers cook evenly and stay juicy.
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably brioche or soft white)
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Onions:
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll be enjoying your delicious Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers in around 40 minutes!
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. Once it’s hot, add the sliced onions and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Stir them occasionally and let them cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes until they become soft and caramelized. Once they’re golden and fragrant, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Form the Patties:
While your onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a flat patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t forget to make a small indentation in the center of each patty—that’ll help keep them from puffing up while cooking. Season both sides of each patty generously with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Next, return to the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter. Increase the heat to medium-high until it’s hot. Carefully place the patties into the skillet, making sure to leave some space between each one. Now it’s time to add the fun part! Immediately place a portion of the caramelized onions on each patty and gently press down to help them stick. Let the burgers cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side.
4. Flip the Burgers:
Carefully flip each burger, ensuring that the onions stay on top. If you’re using cheese, now’s the time to add a slice on each burger. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until your burgers reach your preferred doneness and the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are finishing up, toast the burger buns in a separate pan or throw them on the grill for a few minutes until they’re lightly browned and warm. This adds a nice texture to your burgers!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Once the burgers are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to put everything together! Place each burger on the bottom half of the toasted buns. Feel free to add any extra toppings you love, like lettuce, tomato, or pickles. Finally, place the top bun on and voilà!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers hot with your favorite side—fries, a salad, or anything you like. Enjoy the delicious flavors and feel free to share with family or friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Burgers?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional for Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Caramelized onions can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in a skillet before adding them to your burgers for a quick assembly.
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftover burgers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can separate the patties from the buns if you prefer. To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, and toast the buns briefly for that fresh taste!
Can I Use Different Cheese Besides American?
Of course! While American cheese melts beautifully, you can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a kick. Just place the cheese on the burgers while they are cooking, allowing it to melt over the onions for extra flavor.
