Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are juicy beef patties topped with crispy, golden onions. They’re quick to cook and packed with flavor that makes every bite delicious!
What’s better than biting into a burger with a bit of crunch? I love how the onions add that extra yummy texture. Perfect for a sunny day BBQ, and honestly, who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use an 80/20 blend for juicy burgers. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken. Just note that these may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Onions: Yellow onions are great for caramelizing, but if you want a sweeter taste, try using Vidalia onions. For a milder flavor, you can also use sweet onions. Red onions can work too, but they taste different when cooked!
Cheese: I love American cheese on these burgers for that classic melted goodness. However, if you’re not a fan, feel free to omit it or use cheddar, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a kick.
Buns: Potato buns are soft and add a nice touch, but any soft burger bun will work. You can use whole wheat or gluten-free buns too, just check the size for the burgers!
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Getting your onions just right is key to the flavor of these burgers! Here’s how to caramelize onions without too much hassle:
- Start with medium heat and add oil or butter. This helps the onions cook evenly without burning too quickly.
- Stir frequently for the first few minutes to prevent sticking, then you can stir less often as they cook.
- Give them 10-15 minutes until they are soft and golden brown. Patience is key; the longer you cook them, the sweeter they get!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 burger buns (preferably soft, like potato buns)
- 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Pickles
- Mustard
- Ketchup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing and cooking the onions, followed by another 15-20 minutes cooking the burgers and toasting the buns. It’s quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions. Sauté them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden brown and caramelized. This will enrich the flavor of your burgers!
2. Form the Patties:
While the onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into loose patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each one. Don’t forget to season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook the Burgers:
In another large skillet or on a griddle, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, place the beef patties gently into the pan. This sizzle is a good sign!
4. Add the Onions:
Right after placing the patties, generously pile the sautéed onions on top of each one. Use a spatula to press down on the patties and onions. This helps everything cook evenly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Cook Through:
Let the patties cook for about 3-4 minutes before carefully flipping them. If you’re adding cheese, now’s the time to place a slice on each patty. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until your burgers reach your desired doneness. Yum!
6. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers finish cooking, toast the buns in a separate pan or on the grill until they turn golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your burger!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Once everything is cooked, it’s time to put your burgers together! Start by placing the cooked patty with its delicious onion topping on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Feel free to add any additional toppings you prefer, like pickles, mustard, or ketchup. Place the other half of the bun on top to finish it off.
8. Serve:
Serve your hot Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers with your favorite sides, like crispy fries or fresh coleslaw. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional for fried onion burgers, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer. Just ensure that the meat you choose has a similar fat content (around 80/20) to maintain juiciness and flavor.
What If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with any cheese you like, such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, there are plant-based cheeses available that melt nicely as well. Just add it during the last couple of minutes of cooking so it has time to melt.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Sauté the onions ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them gently in a skillet before adding to your burgers to enhance their flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. Just keep in mind that the buns may get a bit softer when reheated.
