Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a tasty blend of juicy beef patties and crispy fried onions. These burgers are simple to make and pack a punch of flavor with every bite!
The best part? You get that perfect crunch from the onions, making it hard to eat just one! I love serving mine with a side of fries—it’s a fun meal everyone can enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: The 80/20 blend gives juicy burgers, but you can use leaner beef or even turkey if you prefer. Just remember, leaner meats can be drier without the right cooking methods.
Onions: Sweet onions work best for caramelizing. If you don’t have them, yellow onions are a good substitute. For a twist, try using shallots for a milder flavor!
Hamburger Buns: While classic hamburger buns are great, you can swap for whole grain, brioche, or even gluten-free buns. It’s all about what you enjoy!
American Cheese: If you’re not a fan of American cheese, cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice flavor kick. Vegan cheese is also an option for a dairy-free choice.
How Do I Make Sure My Burgers Stay Juicy?
To keep your burgers tender and juicy, one key step is how you form the patties. Avoid packing the meat too tightly—just gently form them into shape. This helps maintain moisture during cooking.
- Use your thumb to create a small indent in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Be mindful of cooking time. Overcooking will dry them out; aim for around 3 minutes on each side for medium.
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Get ready for an easy and tasty burger experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them until they become caramelized and golden brown. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so they don’t burn. Once the onions are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Form the Patties:
While the onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to overwork the meat; this helps keep your burgers nice and tender.
3. Cook the Burgers:
In the same skillet that you used for the onions, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and turn up the heat to medium-high. Carefully place the burger patties in the hot skillet. Season them with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add Onions:
As soon as you place the patties in the skillet, take a handful of the sautéed onions and pile them on top of each patty. Press down a bit with a spatula to help those delicious flavors blend together.
5. Flip the Burgers:
After cooking the burgers for about 2-3 minutes, use a spatula to flip both the patties and the onions. Cook them for another 2-3 minutes for a nice medium doneness. If you want to add cheese, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the skillet for the last minute to let the cheese melt.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, you can toast the hamburger buns in a separate pan or on a grill until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture!
7. Assemble:
Once the burgers are cooked to your liking, take each patty, complete with the fried onions, and place it onto the toasted buns. It’s looking good already!
8. Serve:
Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers while they’re hot, and enjoy them with your favorite condiments and sides. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can also try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require careful cooking to avoid dryness.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you’re looking to spice things up, consider mixing some diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the ground beef before shaping the patties. You can also add spicy condiments like sriracha or chipotle mayo when assembling the burgers for an added kick!
What Should I Do with Leftover Caramelized Onions?
Leftover caramelized onions can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They make a fantastic addition to sandwiches, salads, or even pizza. You can also freeze them in small portions to enjoy later—simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready to use them!
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just make sure to place a piece of parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. If you want to freeze them, wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge before cooking.
