Oklahoma Onion Burgers are a delicious, savory twist on the classic hamburger, where the meat and onions are cooked together to create a flavorful, juicy bite. This regional favorite, originating from the state of Oklahoma, is beloved for its simplicity and the way the onions infuse into the beef, creating a flavorful, caramelized effect. If you’re a fan of burgers with an extra punch, this recipe is a must-try! With just a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty, mouthwatering burger that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether you’re grilling for a family cookout or making a quick weeknight dinner, these Oklahoma Onion Burgers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 ratio for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Onion Topping:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
For Assembly:
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 4 hamburger buns
- Butter or oil for toasting the buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, or ketchup
Preparation:
Step 1: Divide the Beef into Patties
Start by dividing the 1 lb of ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a ball. Season the beef with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little bit of oil or butter to the skillet to prevent sticking and to help achieve a nice crispy sear on the patties. The skillet should be hot before adding the beef.
Step 3: Form the Patties and Add Onions
Place each beef ball on the hot skillet. Press down on each beef ball using a spatula to form a flat patty. Immediately pile a generous handful of thinly sliced onions on top of each patty. Press the onions gently into the meat. This will allow the onions to cook down and caramelize, adding incredible flavor to the burger.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Let the burgers cook for about 2-3 minutes, then flip them over carefully. The onions should have softened and started to caramelize by this point. After flipping, allow the burgers to cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the onions continue to cook down. This process helps the onions meld with the beef, creating a flavorful combination.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Toast the Buns
Once the burgers are cooked through, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. While the cheese is melting, toast the hamburger buns in the same skillet with a bit of butter or oil until they are golden and crispy.
Cooking Note:
- For the best results, use a skillet or griddle that can hold all of the patties at once, so you can cook them in batches if needed.
- The key to achieving the signature taste of Oklahoma Onion Burgers is pressing the onions directly into the meat while it cooks, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- The 80/20 ground beef is ideal for this recipe because the fat content helps keep the burgers juicy and flavorful. However, you can use leaner beef if preferred.
Serving Suggestions:
These Oklahoma Onion Burgers are perfect on their own, but they can also be served with a variety of delicious sides. Consider pairing them with:
- Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries
- A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- A side of pickles or coleslaw for an extra crunch
- A cold, refreshing soda or a classic iced tea to complete the meal
Tips:
- If you prefer a spicier burger, consider adding pickled jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the toppings.
- For a richer flavor, you can sauté the onions in a bit of butter before adding them to the burger patties, though the original method allows the onions to cook directly with the beef for a more authentic flavor.
- If you like your burgers with a bit of tang, a slice of tomato or a dollop of barbecue sauce works wonderfully with the savory flavor of the onions and beef.
- Prep Time:10 minutes
- Cooking Time:10 minutes
- Total Time:20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 500 kcal (estimate)
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 900mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes! While American cheese is classic, feel free to swap it for cheddar, Swiss, or any of your favorite cheeses. Just make sure it melts well!
Q: Can I make the patties ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the beef patties and season them the night before. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Q: Can I grill these burgers instead of using a skillet?
A: Yes! Grilling will give your burgers a delicious smoky flavor. Simply form the patties as directed, and grill them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Conclusion:
Oklahoma Onion Burgers are a flavorful, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your burger cravings. The combination of juicy beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese creates a burger that’s packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or feeding a crowd at a barbecue, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to add your favorite toppings and serve with a side of crispy fries for the ultimate burger experience. Enjoy!
PrintOklahoma Onion Burgers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 ratio for optimal juiciness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Onion Topping:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
For Assembly:
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheese of your choice)
- 4 hamburger buns
- Butter or oil for toasting the buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, or ketchup
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Divide the Beef into Patties
Start by dividing the 1 lb of ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a ball. Season the beef with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step 2: Heat the Skillet
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a little bit of oil or butter to the skillet to prevent sticking and to help achieve a nice crispy sear on the patties. The skillet should be hot before adding the beef.
Step 3: Form the Patties and Add Onions
Place each beef ball on the hot skillet. Press down on each beef ball using a spatula to form a flat patty. Immediately pile a generous handful of thinly sliced onions on top of each patty. Press the onions gently into the meat. This will allow the onions to cook down and caramelize, adding incredible flavor to the burger.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Let the burgers cook for about 2-3 minutes, then flip them over carefully. The onions should have softened and started to caramelize by this point. After flipping, allow the burgers to cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the onions continue to cook down. This process helps the onions meld with the beef, creating a flavorful combination.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Toast the Buns
Once the burgers are cooked through, place a slice of American cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid for about 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt. While the cheese is melting, toast the hamburger buns in the same skillet with a bit of butter or oil until they are golden and crispy.
Notes
Cooking Note:
- For the best results, use a skillet or griddle that can hold all of the patties at once, so you can cook them in batches if needed.
- The key to achieving the signature taste of Oklahoma Onion Burgers is pressing the onions directly into the meat while it cooks, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- The 80/20 ground beef is ideal for this recipe because the fat content helps keep the burgers juicy and flavorful. However, you can use leaner beef if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 500 kcal (estimate)
- Sodium: 900mg
- Protein: 35g