These Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on your classic burger. Juicy beef patties are topped with crispy, golden onions that add a wonderful crunch and flavor!
Perfect for backyard gatherings, these burgers are sure to impress. I love piling on my favorite toppings and enjoying the onion goodness—it’s a burger lover’s dream! 🍔🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 beef for the ideal balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10 or even turkey. Just keep in mind that the flavor and moisture will vary.
Onions: Yellow onions are fantastic for caramelizing because they bring sweetness to the dish. If you’re out of yellow onions, sweet onions like Vidalia or even red onions can work, though they’ll change the flavor a bit.
Burger Buns: Soft buns are key for soaking up those tasty juices. If you’re trying to cut carbs, lettuce wraps or portobello mushrooms can be great substitutes. Choose what suits your needs best.
American Cheese: This is a classic choice here for that gooey texture, but feel free to swap it for cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. Vegan cheese can also be used for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions can really elevate your burger experience but requires some patience. Start with fresh onions for the best taste. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onions and sauté gently, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they’re soft and golden.
- If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. The goal is to have them soft and sweet, not burnt.
Taking your time with this step will make your burgers much more flavorful!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 burger buns, preferably soft
- 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Mustard
- Pickles (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 15 minutes prepping and cooking the onions and patties, and the rest will be for assembling and toasting the buns. Grab a friend or family member to enjoy this delicious meal together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
To start, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them until they’re softened and caramelized. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Stir the onions occasionally to make sure they cook evenly and don’t burn. Once they’re ready, remove them from the skillet and set them aside for later.
2. Shape the Patties:
While your onions are cooking, it’s time to prepare the burger patties. Divide the ground beef into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that is slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink a bit while cooking. Don’t forget to season both sides of each patty generously with salt and pepper!
3. Cook the Patties:
Now that your patties are ready, increase the heat of the skillet to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Carefully place the burger patties in the hot skillet. Cook them for about 2 minutes until the bottom of the patties is nicely browned.
4. Add Onions and Flip:
Here’s where the magic happens! Immediately pile some of the sautéed onions on top of each patty. With a spatula, press down gently on the patties to smash them slightly into the onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then flip the patties over to cook the other side. If you’re using American cheese, now’s the time to place a slice on top of each patty so it can melt beautifully.
5. Toast the Buns:
While your burgers are finishing up, you can toast the burger buns! You can do this in the same skillet (after removing the patties) or in a separate pan. Just toast them until they’re golden brown and delicious.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
It’s finally time to put the burgers together! Take each burger patty with the melted cheese and onions and place it on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add your favorite mustard and pickles if you like, then top it off with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot along with your favorite sides like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy a tasty meal that’s sure to please!
## FAQs for Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Can I Use Different Ground Meat?
Absolutely! If you’d like to use ground turkey, chicken, or lamb instead of beef, just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for poultry and between 160°F to 165°F for lamb or pork for food safety.
What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute with any cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss. Just remember that the melting properties may vary, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Place it on the burger during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt perfectly!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, let the burgers cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave, covered to retain moisture. If the buns are too soft after storage, consider toasting them lightly again for extra crunch!
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 days. When ready to use, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warm before adding them to your burger patties.
