These Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers are a mouthwatering treat! They feature juicy beef patties cooked with sweet, sautéed onions right on top. It’s like a flavor party!
What I love about these burgers is how simple they are to make. You just throw everything together and enjoy. Perfect for a quick family dinner or game day with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using an 80/20 beef blend is perfect for juicy burgers. If you want a leaner option, you can use 90/10, but you might sacrifice some juiciness. Ground turkey or chicken can also work for a lighter burger!
Onions: Yellow onions are my favorite because they become sweet when cooked. If you have red or white onions, those will also work fine, but the flavor varies a bit.
Cheese: American cheese is classic for its meltability. I also like sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Buns: Soft hamburger buns hold everything nicely. For a bit more flavor, use brioche or pretzel buns. Gluten-free buns are a great replacement if needed!
How Do I Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is the key step to adding sweetness to your burgers. It’s all about low and slow cooking, which helps to bring out their natural sugars. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- After adding the onions to your hot skillet, keep the heat on medium-low to avoid burning. Stir occasionally.
- Cook for about 15 minutes, or until they become soft and golden brown. If they start to stick, add a splash of water or a bit more oil!
- Set them aside once caramelized; they’ll be ready to top your burgers for that delicious flavor.
With these tips, your Oklahoma Onion Burgers will turn out great every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking onions)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total: around 15 minutes for preparation and cooking the onions, and about 15 minutes for cooking the burgers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the vegetable oil or butter. Once hot, add the sliced onions. Cook them slowly and stir often until they are very soft, translucent, and lightly caramelized. This should take about 15 minutes. When done, remove the onions from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Form the Patties:
Now, divide the ground beef into four equal portions. On the same skillet or griddle, shape each portion into a thin patty that’s about the size of your bun. Don’t forget to season both sides of the patties generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Place the patties on the hot skillet. Right away, pile generous amounts of the sautéed onions directly on top of each patty. Gently press down on the patties and onions with a spatula to create the signature “smashed” look of an Oklahoma onion burger. Cook until the edges are crispy and the beef is cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Finish Cooking and Melt the Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties with the onions still attached and cook for another 2 minutes. Once cooked through, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt nicely over the burger.
5. Assemble and Enjoy:
If desired, lightly toast your hamburger buns in the same skillet for added flavor and texture. Once everything is ready, place each cheesy onion burger onto a bun and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy with your favorite sides and a cold drink!
This recipe highlights the sweet flavor of caramelized onions cooked right in and on the beef patty, creating a deliciously classic and juicy Oklahoma onion burger. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it safely before cooking. The best way to do this is in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the sealed package in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these burgers gluten-free, simply use gluten-free hamburger buns. Most grocery stores carry a variety of gluten-free options, and you can also use lettuce wraps as a low-carb alternative.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet before assembling your burgers for a quick meal.
What Can I Serve with Oklahoma Onion Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For a fun twist, try serving them with onion rings or sweet potato fries!
