Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a tasty twist on your regular burger! They feature juicy beef patties topped with crispy fried onions that add a fun crunch.
I love how simple they are to make—just mix, fry, and stack! They’re perfect for cookouts, and trust me, those fried onions will have you coming back for seconds! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 80% lean ground beef for a juicy burger. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but they can be drier, so consider adding a bit of oil to help with moisture.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for frying and caramelizing, but if you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute with sweet onions like Vidalia. Shallots could work too, especially for a gourmet twist!
American Cheese: While I like the classic American cheese for its meltiness, feel free to swap with cheddar or provolone. For a dairy-free option, there are great vegan cheese alternatives available.
Buns: A good toasted bun is key! If you’re looking for gluten-free options, there are many tasty gluten-free buns on the market. You could also use lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
How Do I Keep My Burger Patties from Puffing Up?
A common issue with cooking burgers is that they tend to puff up in the center. To help keep them flat, make a small indentation with your thumb in the center of each patty before cooking. This simple trick reduces the chance of them puffing while they cook, leading to a perfectly shaped burger every time.
- Form thin patties and indent in the center.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, which also enhances flavor.
Also, remember to press down on the patties with a spatula once they hit the skillet. This will give an even sear while helping to keep that shape!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
- 4 hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Onions:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25-30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes preparing the onions and patties, and then about 10-15 minutes cooking everything up. It’s a quick and tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté them until they get soft and caramelized, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally so they don’t stick. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Form the Patties:
While the onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Lightly form each portion into thin patties. To keep them from puffing up while they cook, use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each patty. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Cook the Burgers:
In the skillet where you cooked the onions, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil or butter and crank up the heat to high. Place your patties in the skillet and press down firmly with a spatula to flatten them against the skillet. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes on one side.
4. Add Onions and Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over and immediately pile some sautéed onions on top of each patty. If you’re using cheese, now’s the time to add a slice on top of the onions! Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the burgers reach your preferred doneness.
5. Prepare the Buns:
While your burgers are finishing up, you can toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet or on a grill until they’re golden brown. This will give your burgers a nice crunch.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
When the patties are cooked, take each burger and place it on the bottom half of a toasted bun. If you want, you can add your favorite condiments like ketchup or mustard before placing the top half of the bun on.
7. Serve:
Serve your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers hot, alongside some fries or a fresh side salad. Dig in and enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef in this recipe! Keep in mind that ground turkey is leaner, so you might want to add a bit more oil or butter to keep the burgers juicy and flavorful. You can also add herbs or spices for extra flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over low heat, covering them to retain moisture. Alternatively, microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking to ensure they don’t dry out.
Can I Make the Onion Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can sauté the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet before adding them to the burgers to ensure they’re warm and flavorful!
What Can I Use Instead of American Cheese?
If you’d like to swap out American cheese, try cheddar, Swiss, or provolone as great alternatives! They’ll melt beautifully and add a different flavor profile to your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers. Just make sure to add the cheese during the last couple of minutes of cooking for the best melt!
