Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger. They feature juicy beef patties topped with crispy, golden fried onions that add a delightful crunch and flavor!
These burgers are perfect for summer cookouts or a cozy dinner. I love piling on my favorite toppings like lettuce and tomato. Don’t forget the extra napkins; things might get a bit messy! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend is perfect for juicy burgers, with enough fat for flavor without being greasy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.
Onions: Sweet onions are best for caramelizing, but yellow onions can work too. For a different flavor, try shallots or even green onions, especially if you like a bit of a kick.
American Cheese: While it’s a classic choice that melts beautifully, feel free to swap it out for cheddar or Swiss cheese to match your taste. Vegan cheese is also a good substitute for dairy-free diets.
Vegetable Oil: This oil is great for frying, but olive oil can be a healthier swap. Remember, it has a lower smoke point, so cook on medium heat.
How Do You Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is key for adding depth to your burgers. Patience is essential! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a nice, heavy skillet on medium heat.
- Add a tablespoon of oil and then the sliced onions.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a golden brown. If they start to stick, add a splash of water or a bit more oil.
This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and makes your burgers so much tastier!
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
- 4 slices American cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fun recipe takes about 35 minutes total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes cooking the onions and burgers, plus some time to toast the buns. Get ready for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized, which will take about 10-15 minutes. When they look perfect, set the onions aside on a plate.
2. Cook the Burger Patties:
In the same skillet, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. While it heats up, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Flatten each piece into a thin patty, about 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Add the Onions:
Carefully place the beef patties into the hot skillet. Right away, scoop some of the sautéed onions onto each patty. Press down gently with a spatula to help the onions stick to the meat.
4. Flip and Melt:
Cook the burgers for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is nicely browned. Flip each burger with a spatula, giving them another light press down. If you’re using cheese, place a slice on each flipped burger and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the patties are cooked to your liking.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers finish cooking, you can toast the hamburger buns. Use a separate skillet or a griddle to toast them until they’re lightly browned on both sides. This will add some nice crunch to your burgers!
6. Assemble and Serve:
Time to put it all together! Take a toasted bun and place a cooked burger patty with onions on the bottom half. Then, top it with the other half of the bun. Serve these tasty Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers hot and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for These Burgers?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for leaner meats, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safety and desired texture.
What if I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem! You can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss. Alternatively, you can skip the cheese altogether for a healthier or dairy-free option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed to melt the cheese of your choice properly!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave’s power. If you prefer, you can also reassemble the burger for a fresh taste!
Can I Prepare the Onions Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can sauté the onions in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just rewarm them in the skillet before assembling your burgers for the best flavor. This can save you time on busy days!
