This Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger features juicy beef patties topped with sweet, caramelized onions. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor!
I love how the onions get all soft and tasty while cooking. They’re like little flavor bombs on your burger!🍔 Don’t forget the pickles; they make it even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using an 80/20 blend for juiciness and flavor. If you’re after a leaner option, 90/10 works too, but it might be less juicy.
Onion: A large yellow onion is great for the sweet caramelization needed in this recipe. If you’re out of yellow onions, sweet onions work as a lovely substitute!
American Cheese: It’s the classic choice for melting on burgers. For a twist, you could swap it for cheddar or Monterey Jack; both melt well!
Hamburger Buns: I like using soft, toasted buns for extra texture. Brioche or potato rolls are delicious alternatives if you’re looking for something a bit different.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions transforms their flavor into something sweet and delicious. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium-high heat, adding your oil or butter.
- Add the onions and a pinch of salt to help them soften.
- Keep stirring them occasionally. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- If they start sticking, lower the heat slightly and add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.
This slow-cook method really brings out their sweetness, enhancing your burger experience! Enjoy the process. 🍔
Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 soft hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
- Optional: pickles and mustard for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for prep and cooking, plus a little time to get everything assembled and ready to serve. Quick and super tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Caramelize the Onions:
First, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter. Once it’s hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Stir them occasionally and cook for about 10-15 minutes, until they’re soft and golden brown. This step is crucial for that sweet flavor! When they’re done, take them out and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
In the same skillet, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. If needed, add another tablespoon of oil or butter. Form each portion into a loose ball, then place it on the skillet. Use a spatula to smash each ball down firmly into a thin patty that covers most of the skillet surface.
3. Season and Cook the Patties:
Sprinkle salt and pepper on each patty to taste. Let them cook without moving them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and brown. When they’re ready, carefully flip each patty over.
4. Add Toppings:
Right after flipping, pile a generous amount of the caramelized onions on each patty, then add a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, you can toast the hamburger buns in the same skillet if there’s space. Just give them a minute on each side until they’re lightly golden.
6. Assemble and Serve:
To put it all together, place each cheesy patty full of onions on the bottom bun. If you like, add pickles and mustard before topping it with the other half of the bun. Finally, serve your delicious Oklahoma onion burgers immediately. Enjoy! 🍔
This recipe perfectly captures that classic Oklahoma onion burger vibe—crispy, juicy, and oh-so-tasty. Enjoy every bite with a cold soda!
FAQ for Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are the traditional choice for their sweetness, you can also use white onions for a sharper flavor or sweet onions for extra sweetness. Red onions can work too, but they might not caramelize as well.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, try using leaner ground beef (like 90/10) or ground turkey. You can also load up on veggies, like lettuce and tomatoes, for a fresh crunch, and use whole grain buns for added fiber!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger patties in advance! Shape them and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are separated by parchment paper if frozen to prevent sticking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently on a skillet to keep the patties juicy, or use the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.
