This Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger is a delicious twist on the classic! Picture juicy beef patties cooked with thinly sliced onions for that extra flavor kick, all on a soft bun.
Honestly, who can resist the smell of onions sizzling? I love how simple it is—just mix, grill, and enjoy! Pair it with fries, and you’ve got a perfect meal for any day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend of ground beef is ideal for flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for healthier options, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but watch the cooking time as they may cook faster.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing. If you’re not a fan of yellow onions, you might try sweet Vidalia or even red onions for a different taste.
Cheese: American cheese melts wonderfully, giving that classic cheeseburger experience. You can substitute with cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack if you like a bit of spice!
Buns: Soft hamburger buns work best, but you can use whole grain or gluten-free buns if you prefer. Toasting is a personal touch that helps prevent sogginess from the juices.
How Can I Cook the Perfect Burger with Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions and cooking burgers might seem tricky, but it’s simple with a few pointers. Start with low heat to coax out the natural sugars from the onions without burning them. Here’s how:
- Heat a skillet, then add oil or butter before adding onions.
- Cook the onions slowly for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. They should become soft and golden.
- For the burger patties, form them gently, making them larger than the buns since they’ll shrink when cooked.
- Pressing the patties down while cooking helps blend the onions into the meat, creating a tasty crust.
Letting the cheese melt on top for a minute before serving ensures a gooey finish. Enjoy making your burgers, and don’t hesitate to customize them with your favorite toppings!
How to Make Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices American cheese (or cheese of choice)
- 4 soft hamburger buns (preferably toasted)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter (for cooking onions)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Pickles
- Ketchup
- Mustard
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Oklahoma Onion Burger can be made in about 30 minutes! You’ll need around 10-15 minutes for preparation, including slicing the onions and forming the patties, and about 15 minutes for cooking everything to delicious perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by heating the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them gently, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes. Once they’re ready, remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
2. Form the Patties:
Next, divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Form each portion into a thin, large patty, making sure they are slightly larger than the buns, as they will shrink while cooking. Season both sides with salt and black pepper for added flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Using the same skillet or griddle (don’t clean it; you want those tasty bits!), add the patties. Immediately place a generous handful of the cooked onions on top of each patty. Cook the patties for about 3 minutes on one side.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
After 3 minutes, flip the patties over. Press down on each patty with a spatula to help squeeze the beef and onions together, creating a thin, crispy edge. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the patties are cooked through and nicely caramelized.
5. Melt the Cheese:
For the final touch, place a slice of cheese on each patty and let it melt for about 1 minute while the burger cooks.
6. Toast the Buns:
If you like, lightly toast the hamburger buns in the skillet or griddle just until warmed through.
7. Assemble and Serve:
Now it’s time to put your burger together! Place the cheesy onion-topped patty on the bottom half of the bun. Add any optional toppings like pickles, ketchup, or mustard, then cover it with the top bun. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and a nice cold beverage.
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic Oklahoma onion burger, blending the rich flavors of the beef and caramelized onions. Get ready to dig in and savor each bite! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While an 80/20 ground beef blend is recommended for its flavor and juiciness, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as these leaner meats can cook faster.
What If I Don’t Have American Cheese?
No problem at all! You can use any cheese you prefer. Cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack are excellent substitutes. Just make sure it melts well for that perfect gooey texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm the patties gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave them. Just be cautious not to overcook them during reheating.
Can I Prepare the Onions in Advance?
Yes! You can caramelize the onions a day ahead of time. Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just reheat them in a skillet before adding them to your burgers!
