Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger. They feature juicy beef patties topped with crispy, golden-fried onions that add a delightful crunch!
It’s hard not to love these burgers. I mean, who doesn’t want more onions on their meal? They’re simple to make and perfect for backyard barbecues or casual dinners. Yum! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is great for juicy burgers. If you want a leaner option, you can use 90/10. For a different flavor, consider ground turkey or chicken, but they may need a bit more seasoning.
Onions: Sweet or yellow onions work best for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. If you want a milder taste, try using shallots instead. For a sharper kick, red onions can be used but will impart a different color and flavor.
Hamburger Buns: Potato buns are soft and have a slight sweetness, but you can swap in brioche or whole grain buns for a healthier twist. Gluten-free buns are also available if you need a gluten-free option.
American Cheese: While classic, you can substitute with cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for different flavors. If avoiding dairy, try a plant-based cheese alternative.
Toppings: Mustard, ketchup, and pickles are favorites, but feel free to add fresh lettuce, tomatoes, or avocado for more freshness and texture!
How Do You Properly Caramelize Onions Without Burning Them?
Caramelizing onions requires a bit of patience. It’s all about cooking them slowly to deepen their flavor without burning. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to avoid scorching. A good non-stick skillet helps.
- Add sliced onions, toss them in oil or butter, and stir them occasionally.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
- If you want even more flavor, add a sprinkle of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar halfway through!
Using a lid occasionally can help trap steam, speeding up the softening process without losing the sweet flavor.
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably potato buns)
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Optional toppings: pickles, mustard, or ketchup
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the onions and then around 15-20 minutes frying the patties and assembling everything. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Skillet:
Start by preheating a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter to get it nice and hot. This is where you’ll be cooking everything, so make sure it’s ready!
2. Prepare the Onions:
Once the skillet is hot, toss in the sliced onions. Cook them gently, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelized. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once they are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Form the Patties:
While the onions are cooking, grab the ground beef and divide it into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a ball—don’t press too hard! This helps keep the burgers juicy.
4. Cook the Patties:
When the skillet is ready again, add the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter. Place your beef balls in the skillet and flatten them with a spatula to make thin patties. Season the tops with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for flavor.
5. Add the Onions:
After letting the patties cook for about 3-4 minutes, it’s time to add those delicious caramelized onions! Pile them high on each patty and press down just a bit to ensure they stick.
6. Melt the Cheese:
If you’re using cheese, place a slice on each patty after you’ve added the onions. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Yum!
7. Toast the Buns:
While your patties finish cooking, grab another skillet and toast the hamburger buns cut side down until they are nice and golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch!
8. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place each patty with onions on the bottom part of a toasted bun. Add any extra toppings you’d like, such as pickles, mustard, or ketchup, and then top it off with the other half of the bun.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers right away while they’re warm and juicy. Gather your friends or family around and enjoy the delightful flavors. Happy eating!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Absolutely! While yellow onions are commonly used, you can also try sweet onions like Vidalia for a milder flavor, or even red onions for a bit of extra color and a sharper taste. Just remember to adjust cooking times if you prefer them more caramelized.
What If I Don’t Have Potato Buns?
No problem! You can use any type of hamburger bun you have on hand, such as sesame seed buns, whole wheat, or even brioche for a richer taste. Just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the juicy burger and toppings.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the caramelized onions ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet before adding them to your burgers.
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have any leftovers, store the assembled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the components separate (buns, patties, toppings) until you’re ready to eat. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave before assembling your burger again!
