Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a tasty treat that brings juicy beef patties and crispy fried onions together in a soft bun. They’re messy in the best way, and you won’t be able to resist that crunchy goodness!
I love how the onions add a wonderful flavor and texture to the burger. Don’t forget napkins—you’ll need them! These burgers are perfect for a fun cookout with friends or family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is ideal for juicy burgers. However, if you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use 90/10 beef, but expect a slightly drier patty. For a different flavor, ground turkey or a meat substitute like black bean burger can work too!
Onions: The key to great flavor here! Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing, but white or sweet onions can also be used for their mild sweetness. If someone prefers a milder taste, you can use shallots instead.
Hamburger Buns: Brioche buns add a touch of sweetness and richness. If you want, whole wheat or sesame seed buns can be used for a different texture and flavor. Gluten-free buns are also a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, giving that classic burger experience. If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to swap in cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a bit of heat! Just make sure they’re also good melting cheeses.
How Do I Properly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions sounds fancy, but it just takes a little time and patience. The goal is to turn those bright, crunchy slices into soft, sweet, and slightly brown goodness. Here’s how to do it right!
- Use medium-high heat to get your pan hot, then lower it once you add the onions.
- Add oil and the sliced onions, stirring every few minutes. Let them cook slowly for about 10-15 minutes.
- Be patient! If they start to burn, lower the heat. You want them golden, not black!
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 hamburger buns (preferably brioche)
- 4 slices American cheese
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Mustard
- Pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes cooking the onions, followed by 10-15 minutes cooking the burgers and toasting the buns. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to become soft and caramelized. When they’re ready, take them off the heat and set them aside.
2. Preparing the Burger Patties:
Now, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into thin patties, about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t forget to season both sides of each patty generously with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
3. Cooking the Patties:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and let it heat up until it’s hot. Carefully place the burger patties in the skillet. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side. After 2 minutes, flip the patties over.
4. Adding the Onions and Cheese:
Once you flip the patties, quickly pile some of the caramelized onions on top of each patty. Use a spatula to gently press the onions into the meat. Let them cook for another 2 minutes. Then, place a slice of American cheese on each patty and cover the skillet with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt well.
5. Toasting the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, you can toast the hamburger buns. You can do this in a separate skillet or under the broiler for a few minutes until they are golden brown. This will add a nice crunch!
6. Assembling the Burgers:
Now for the fun part! Place each cheeseburger patty topped with onions on a toasted bun. If you like, add some mustard and pickles for an extra kick. Finally, add the top half of the bun to complete your burger.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to dig in! Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers immediately and enjoy every savory bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary slightly, so make sure to cook the patties thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for turkey or chicken.
What if I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! You can use other cheese varieties such as cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack. Just be aware that different cheeses melt at varying rates, so keep an eye on them while melting to ensure they don’t burn.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them for about 30 seconds to a minute. If possible, add a splash of water in the container when microwaving to help keep the burgers moist.
Can I Freeze These Burgers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked patties or the raw formed patties! For raw patties, place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking, then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking. For cooked patties, allow them to cool completely before freezing, and reheat as mentioned above.
