Name: Oklahoma Onion Burgers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20); 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced; 4 slices American cheese; 2 burger buns; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting buns); Salt and pepper to taste; Pickles (optional); Mustard (optional)

Oklahoma Onion Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic American burger. Known for their simple ingredients and hearty flavor, these burgers are made unique by their use of thinly sliced onions pressed directly into the beef patties while cooking, resulting in caramelized onions that add both flavor and texture. The combination of juicy beef, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked onions, all nestled in a toasted bun, creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any burger lover. Whether you’re grilling for a casual family dinner or craving a fast, flavorful bite, Oklahoma Onion Burgers are sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
4 slices American cheese
2 burger buns
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting buns)
Salt and pepper to taste
Pickles (optional)
Mustard (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the onions: Slice the onions very thin using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Set them aside. The thinner the slices, the better they will caramelize and meld with the beef.

Step 2: Form the patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form them into balls. Press each ball down gently with your hands to create a thin patty. Try not to overwork the meat to ensure the patties stay tender.

Step 3: Cook the onions and patties: Heat a cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the patties on the skillet and immediately top each with a generous handful of the thinly sliced onions. Press the onions down into the beef and season with salt and pepper. This allows the onions to cook and integrate into the patties, adding flavor.

Step 4: Sear the patties: Let the patties cook for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is well-browned. Flip the patties carefully, making sure the onions stay pressed into the beef. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are caramelized and the beef is cooked through.

Step 5: Add cheese: Place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Allow it to melt over the hot patty, creating a gooey layer of cheese that complements the savory beef and onions.

Step 6: Toast the buns: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Place the burger buns, cut-side down, in the skillet and toast them until golden brown. This step adds a bit of crunch and richness to the burger.

Step 7: Assemble the burgers: Place the cooked patty with the onions and melted cheese on the bottom bun. Add any desired condiments like pickles or mustard. Top with the other half of the bun to complete the burger.

Step 8: Serve: Serve the Oklahoma Onion Burgers hot with a side of crispy fries or onion rings. These burgers are perfect for a casual meal or to enjoy during a game day celebration.

Cooking Note:

For a crispy onion topping, press the onions firmly into the beef while cooking. This will help them stick and caramelize more effectively, adding extra flavor to each bite. If you want a more decadent burger, you can add a dollop of mayonnaise or ketchup for extra creaminess and tang.

Serving Suggestions:

Oklahoma Onion Burgers are delicious when paired with classic sides such as crispy French fries, homemade onion rings, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve them with a cold beverage like iced tea or soda for the perfect meal. For a more gourmet touch, add slices of fresh tomatoes or lettuce for added crunch and freshness.

Tips:

If you prefer a thicker patty, you can adjust the size of the beef portions before pressing them into patties.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor. Sharp cheddar or pepper jack would work well alongside the onions.
If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, you can use a non-stick skillet, but the cast-iron will give the best results for crispy seared burgers.
For extra flavor, add a touch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or your favorite seasoning mix to the beef before cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 2

Calories: 550 per burger

Nutritional Information:

Calories: 550 per burger
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs:

Can I make these burgers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to cook the onions fresh to keep their texture and flavor.

Can I use other types of meat?

While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Keep in mind that these meats might need additional seasoning to match the richness of beef.

Can I freeze the patties?

Yes, you can freeze the patties before cooking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then follow the cooking instructions.

What can I serve with these burgers?

These burgers pair well with a variety of sides such as fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a fresh vegetable salad. For drinks, a cold soda, iced tea, or beer complement the flavors well.

Conclusion:

Oklahoma Onion Burgers are a fantastic way to elevate your burger game. The rich, caramelized onions meld beautifully with the juicy beef patty, while the American cheese adds a creamy finish. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or enjoying a quick meal, these burgers bring a satisfying, savory punch that will leave you coming back for more. With a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality burger right at home.