This Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger is a real treat! It’s juicy beef topped with sweet caramelized onions, all served on a warm bun. Simple and scrumptious!
Making these burgers is a breeze and the onions add a wonderful flavor. I love piling on extra onions because, honestly, who can resist that delicious taste? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef. The fat content keeps the burgers juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works too but keeps an eye on moisture, as it can dry out quicker.
Onions: A large yellow onion is perfect for caramelizing due to its sweetness. You can use white onions if that’s what you have, but they may not be as sweet. Red onions add a different flavor, too!
Buns: Soft hamburger buns create a nice contrast with the crispy burgers. You could swap for whole grain or gluten-free buns to meet dietary needs. Sometimes, I even use a lettuce wrap for a low-carb twist!
Cheese: While I love American cheese for its creaminess, cheddar is a great alternative. If you’re dairy-free, look for vegan cheese options that melt well.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience. It brings out their rich sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add oil or butter.
- Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions, spreading them out.
- Cook slowly, stirring often, for about 15 minutes until they’re golden brown. Lower the heat if they begin to burn.
- Set aside when done, and you can even make them ahead of time for meal prep!
Perfect caramelized onions make all the difference in your Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger! Enjoy the cooking process!
Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 4 slices of American or cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and another 20-25 minutes for cooking. In total, you can have these delicious burgers ready in about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil or butter. Once hot, toss in your thinly sliced onions. Sauté them, stirring frequently, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. This should take about 15 minutes. Once they’re done, remove them from the pan and set aside.
2. Prepare the Burger Patties:
While the onions are cooking, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a thin patty that’s slightly larger than your buns. Season both sides with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil or butter. Place one of the patties in the hot pan. Immediately divide a generous amount of the caramelized onions on top of the patty. Use a spatula to press the patty and onions down slightly to create a crispy edge. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is nicely browned and crispy.
4. Finish Cooking the Burger:
Carefully flip the burger over. If you’d like more onions, throw some extra on top. Add a slice of cheese immediately so it can melt while the other side cooks. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the burger is done to your liking.
5. Assemble Your Burger:
Once the burger is ready, transfer it onto a toasted bun. Repeat the cooking process for the remaining patties.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tasty Oklahoma Onion Burgers immediately, paired with your favorite sides and a refreshing drink! Enjoy every juicy bite!
This burger marvel features a juicy, thin beef patty melded with sweet caramelized onions, all nestled in a soft bun. It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef offers the best flavor and juiciness, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time as lean meats cook faster than beef.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of hot sauce or chili powder into the beef before shaping the patties. You can also top your burgers with jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a spicy aioli!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
To store any leftovers, keep the cooked patties and caramelized onions separate. Place them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving again.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Definitely! You can caramelize the onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a skillet before adding them to your burgers to bring back that delicious flavor.