These Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! With fresh onions mixed right into the patties, each bite is a tasty surprise. Plus, they’re quick to whip up!
My favorite part? The sizzling smell that fills the kitchen while they cook. I love piling on pickles and mustard for a classic touch. Trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef as it gives the burgers a juicy flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 85/15 or even turkey or chicken breast if you’re keeping it lighter.
Onions: Sweet or yellow onions work best for their rich flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you could use green onions or shallots instead.
Cheese: American cheese melts perfectly for that classic gooey texture. If you want to mix it up, cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice twist, just keep in mind the melting factor.
Buns: Soft hamburger buns are great, but you can opt for whole wheat or brioche buns for added flavor. Just ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold all the juicy goodness!
How Do I Form and Cook Perfect Patties?
Forming the patties right is crucial for tasty burgers. You want to handle the meat gently so that it stays tender! Here’s how:
- Mix the beef and onions lightly without overworking it. This keeps your burgers tender.
- When forming patties, make them a bit larger than the buns since they’ll shrink during cooking.
- Press down firmly with a spatula once they’re on the skillet to ensure even cooking and that those crispy edges!
This technique helps to lock in flavors and gives you those delicious, crunchy edges every burger lover enjoys.
Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 ratio preferred)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 slices American cheese (or your preferred melting cheese)
- 4 soft hamburger buns
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Optional: pickles, mustard, or other preferred burger toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 15 to 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll be enjoying your delicious Oklahoma Onion Burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef and Onions:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overwork the meat; this helps keep your burgers tender and juicy.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into a loose ball without packing it too tightly. This will help create a more tender burger when cooked.
3. Heat Your Cooking Surface:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. This will help prevent sticking and give a nice flavor to your burgers.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place one ball of the beef mixture on the hot skillet. Using a spatula, press it down firmly to flatten it into a thin patty that’s about the size of your burger bun. Cook the patty for about 3 to 4 minutes, letting the edges turn crispy and brown.
5. Add the Cheese:
Carefully flip the patty and immediately place a slice of cheese on top. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is melted and the burger is cooked through.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the burger is cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns either on the skillet or in a toaster. This adds extra flavor and helps them hold up to the juicy burger.
7. Assemble Your Burger:
Once cooked, remove the onion burger from the skillet and place it on the bottom half of the toasted bun. Add any optional toppings you like, such as pickles or mustard to jazz it up!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Top with the other half of the bun and serve hot. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Oklahoma Onion Burgers with your favorite sides and a refreshing drink!
FAQ for Easy Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef, but be aware that they tend to be leaner. To keep the burgers juicy, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil or some breadcrumbs to the mixture.
What Type of Onions Work Best for This Recipe?
Sweet or yellow onions are great choices for these burgers due to their mild flavor. If you like a sharper taste, feel free to use red onions. Just keep in mind they may add a bit more bite to the flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them briefly or warm them in a skillet to regain that crispy texture.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and onion mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for longer storage. Thaw frozen patties in the fridge overnight before cooking!
