Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are juicy burgers topped with crispy fried onions that add a great crunch! They’re easy to make and really pack a flavor punch.
These burgers are great for BBQs or a casual dinner. Trust me, those fried onions make every bite awesome! I love pairing them with a side of fries—so good! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef is perfect as it balances flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for lower fat, 90/10 works, but expect a bit less richness. For a twist, you might try ground turkey or chicken, though they’ll need careful cooking to avoid dryness.
Onions: Yellow or sweet onions are best for caramelizing, as they add great flavor. If you want a stronger taste, try red onions. For a milder option, green onions can be a fun substitute, but they won’t caramelize in the same way.
Hamburger Buns: Soft diner-style buns hold up nicely with all the toppings. Alternatively, brioche buns add richness, while whole wheat buns offer a healthier twist. Just make sure whatever you choose, it’s soft enough to bite into comfortably!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a different flavor, consider cheddar or pepper jack for a kick. For vegan needs, plant-based cheese is a great option, though it melts differently.
Vegetable Oil: While vegetable oil is ideal for frying, you could use canola or sunflower oil due to their high smoke points. Olive oil can work too but gives a different flavor and burns at high heat.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions adds amazing flavor to your burgers, but it requires a bit of patience. The key is to cook them low and slow. Start by heating your skillet to medium heat and add the oil. Here’s how to do it:
- Add sliced onions to the hot skillet with a pinch of salt. The salt helps draw out moisture.
- Stir occasionally, allowing them to cook evenly until soft and golden brown—around 10-15 minutes.
- If they start to stick or brown too quickly, lower the heat or add a splash more oil.
Make sure not to rush this step; the sweetness of the onions really shines through when they’ve had a chance to develop nicely!
How to Make Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for optimal flavor)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced (preferably yellow or sweet onion)
- 4 hamburger buns (diner-style soft)
- 4 slices of American cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or more as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time Estimate:
This delicious recipe will take about 30 minutes total to prepare. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes cooking the onions, while you make the patties and fry the burgers. It’s quick and easy—perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the vegetable oil. When the oil is hot, toss in the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become caramelized and golden brown. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once done, carefully remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Form the Patties:
While the onions are cooking, take the ground beef and divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into thin patties. Remember to make these patties slightly larger than the buns because they will shrink a bit while cooking. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each patty for flavor.
3. Fry the Burgers:
In the same skillet where you cooked the onions, place the patties over medium-high heat. You can add a touch more oil if needed. As the patties start cooking, press down on them gently with a spatula to flatten them a little. This helps the juices mix nicely with the onions. Let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side.
4. Add the Onions:
When the bottom of the patties is nicely browned, carefully flip them over. Immediately add a generous amount of the caramelized onions on top of each patty. If you like cheese, now’s the time to place a slice on top of the onions.
5. Finish Cooking:
Cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes. This will help the cheese melt and allow the burger to cook through, which should take about 3-4 minutes more. The result will be juicy burgers with melted cheese and sweet, delicious onions!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
While the burgers are finishing up, you can toast the hamburger buns lightly in the skillet or in a toaster if you prefer. Once toasted, it’s time to assemble! Place the onion-topped patties on the bottom half of each bun, then top with the other half of the bun.
7. Serve:
Your Oklahoma Fried Onion Burgers are now ready to enjoy! Serve them hot with your favorite sides like fries or a fresh salad. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be aware that it cooks differently, so you may want to incorporate some olive oil or moisture to keep the patties juicy. Season well since turkey is milder in flavor than beef.
How Do I Caramelize Onions More Quickly?
To speed up caramelizing onions, you can add a splash of water when they begin to brown. This helps to soften them faster. Just be cautious not to add too much, or they won’t develop that rich color and flavor!
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Yes! You can form the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours, or freeze them for longer storage. If freezing, place a piece of parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. Thaw frozen patties in the fridge before cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and avoid drying them out.
